Over the next week, more than 2,000 students will report to the Lakehead University campus in west Orillia for the new school year.
Maddy Temple, Lakehead University's administrative co-ordinator for resident services, says the Orillia residence is at full capacity ahead of the new semester with around 240 students living on campus.
Today, many of those students moved their belongings into their new temporary homes.
"We've been planning for this day since before the students left back in the previous academic year in April," Temple said. "As staff, we couldn't be happier to see so many new and returning faces."
Temple says campus is "buzzing" heading into the new school year.
"The energy is very high today," she said. "I think that will continue throughout the next eight months."
Temple, a graduate from Lakehead's Interdisciplinary Studies program, encourages all students to attend as many campus events and programming opportunities as they can this year.
"It really enhances a student's communal setting," she said. "It's a good opportunity to make so many friends and a lot of good memories."
Devin Marshall, a first-year history student, moved into Lakehead University residence for the first time on Thursday. The Hagersville native says he chose Lakehead because of its "community environment."
"It's a little bit less competitive than what it would be like at a major school," he said. "It's more of an environment that I feel comfortable learning in."
Marshall says he's most looking forward to meeting new people on campus this year.
"I'm excited to have new experiences," he said. "I love learning, so I feel like this will be a lot of fun for me."
For Marshall, this is his first time living away from home.
"It seems like a lot right now," he said. "It's definitely a new experience, but I'll get used to it."
Marshall hopes to get involved in extracurriculars this year that are art and recreation-based.
Sacha Hamilton moved into residence today in preparation for her third year at Lakehead University.
The social work student says living on campus gives her several advantages to help her succeed.
"I honestly just find it easier," she said. "It's expensive, but because of the meal plan, you don't have to buy your own groceries. It works out to be a good deal."
Hamilton, who is from the Brantford area, says she enjoys attending Lakehead because of the small-town vibe that comes with its Orillia setting.
As a veteran student, Hamilton warns new students the university workload can be overwhelming.
"It might seem hard, but you can push through it," she encouraged. "You just have to stay focused."
While Hamilton encourages freshmen students to socialize and get involved with extracurriculars, she says it's important to prioritize academics.
"The social aspect is important, but not everything," she said. "Go out with friends and have fun, but you have to keep that balance."
