By this point, most students have secured their residence placements. The applications are in, the decisions are made, and for many, the details are starting to feel real.
While it can be tempting to shift focus entirely to the excitement of first year, this period, between confirming residence and moving in, is an important window to set expectations and prepare for the transition ahead.
Residence is often described as one of the most memorable parts of the university experience. That can be true, but it’s also an adjustment. Understanding what to expect can make that transition smoother, more manageable, and ultimately more rewarding. In our new residence series, we’ll be breaking down what to expect before you move in and how to thrive once you’re there.
Residence is More Than a Building
It’s easy to focus on the physical aspects of residence, like room size, layout, or amenities, but these rarely define the overall experience. What shapes residence life far more is the environment: Shared spaces, new routines, and the reality of living alongside dozens (or hundreds) of other students. Whether in a traditional dorm, suit-style residence, or apartment-style house, students are entering a highly social and often unpredictable setting. For some, this feels energizing. For others, it can feel overwhelming at first. Both reactions are totally normal.
The Adjustment to Shared Living
For many students, residence is their first experience living away from home. Even for those who have travelled or attended camp, the day-to-day reality of shared living can come as a surprise.
Common adjustments include:
- Navigating shared bathrooms or kitchens
- Managing different schedules, habits, and noise levels
- Learning to balance independence with consideration for others
These are not challenges to avoid but skills to build. The ability to adapt, communicate, and coexist will serve students well, far beyond first year.
When Residence Isn’t What You Expected
Not every student receives their top residence choice. Others may find that their assigned living style does not match what they had imagined. It’s important to recognize that the quality of a residential experience is not determined solely by the building itself. Students who approach residence with flexibility, openness, and a willingness to engage tend to have more positive experiences, regardless of the setting. Conversely, even the most sought-after residences can feel isolating without effort and intention.
What Matters More Than the Room?
Across campuses, one theme is consistent: small behaviours shape the experience.
Students who keep their door open early on, introduce themselves to others on their floor, attend initial residence events, and establish simple routines are more likely to build connections and feel a sense of belonging. These actions may seem minor, but they often make a big difference between a passive and an engaged residence experience.
What to do Before Move-In
With several months before arrival still, students can take a few practical steps to feel more prepared:
- Review residence communications carefully (forms, move-in details, expectations)
- Connect with roommates and online residence communities
- Begin thinking about routines (sleep, study habits, personal organization)
- Set realistic expectations for yourself and for the experience
With these steps, students can reduce uncertainty leading up to move-in day.
Residence is a significant transition, but it is also an opportunity. With the right expectations and a thoughtful approach, students can enter this next phase feeling more confident and ready to engage. In Part Two, we’ll look at how to move beyond the transition and focus on what it takes to truly thrive in residence.
