As September approaches, we want YOU to have some familiar faces in residence before even moving-in. Introducing the Welcome Home Series, where we will share introductions to many of the fabulous staff on our Residence Life Staff Team.
Get familiar with who they are and their role, why they love living in residence, and what they suggest to make the most of your year.
Abby, East Residence Assistant
Hi, I'm Abby! I’m going into my 3rd year of being a Residence Assistant, where I support incoming students and help them with the transition to University.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love residence life because it gives first year students a great support system to have the best transition possible to University. You’re surrounded by others going through similar things, as well as lots of supports.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Use the supports available to you. Res Life and the University offer so many supports, in my experience using those has been really beneficial. Talk to your RA when you get here, as they’ll know where to point you for your specific needs, but two key ones are the library (they host lots of workshops and 1-on-1 supports, and can even proofread your essays) and wellness services (there are counsellors specifically for students living in residence, as well as workshops and peer support).
Amer, Lennox-Addington Residence Assistant
Hi, I'm Amer and I'm going to be working as a Residence Assistant this year. This means I will help students who are going to be living on residence by providing support during their adjustment into university. I will be an RA in our Lennox-Addington residence!
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love residence life because it helps first year students with their transition to the university life. All of the staff are an excellent source of help when needed, and they also focus making sure every student is comfortable. It’s always a good time!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Moving into residence is a big step and it might be uncomfortable at the beginning, however, the university offers a significant amount of help and resources. Don't be afraid to use them! If you ever feel that you need to talk about something with your RA 1 on 1 do not be shy. That why we are here, to help you and make sure you thrive at the University of Guelph this fall.
Hanika, East Residence Assistant
Hello! I'm Hanika and I am going into my second year in the Applied Human Nutrition Program! I am going to be a residence assistant who serves as a mentor, provides support and helps with community management and development to students living in East Residence.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I enjoy living in residence because there are no distractions from family, allowing me to be autonomous and responsible. In addition, there is significantly reduced travel time (as I live in Markham). Furthermore, there is indeed a lot of community support, especially for first-year students, and I enjoy that we can meet a diverse range of individuals from a small community.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Some tips I have for a new student related to residence is that your RA’s are always your go-to for support in academics, school, or even personal life. In addition, knowing how to manage your time, and remembering about self-care, connecting with other people, and eating regularly contributes to huge success in your overall quality of life, as I have definitely learned it the hard way.
Marina, East Village Residence Life Manager
Hi, I’m Marina! I am the Residence Life Manager for East Village. Within my role, I support our Residence Life Staff while they help you navigate university.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love residence life because I am passionate about positively impacting people and walking alongside them as they grow.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Explore campus life to the fullest! Enroll in that club, try out for that sport, come out to your RAs events, apply for that job on campus. Create your story as a Gryphon.
Lynn, Commerce Cluster Leader
Hi, I'm Lynn. I am a cluster leader for a group of commerce students living in residence! I host a ton of programs to help my students succeed in their classes, including faculty events featuring their actual professors.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love getting to spend 24/7 on the beautiful Guelph campus, especially in the fall. One of my favorite parts of residence life is making a new space feel like home every year.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Invest some thought and time into making your room comfortable, inviting, and convenient for you. You are going to spend a lot of time in your room, even if it is just to sleep. I've noticed how having a well decorated room has improved my mental health.
Nicolas, Maritime Hall Community Assistant
My name is Nicolas and I’m the Community Assistant for Maritime Hall. My job is to help everyone living in my area enjoy their experience as much as possible. This means coordinating with RAs to ensure everyone knows what’s going on around residence, dealing with behaviour issues and providing support or resources to both RAs and students alike.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I really enjoy seeing how everyone grows throughout the year. As the weeks and months go by, you’ll find many folks developing such strong connections with others - it’s simply beautiful to see! The end of the year is bittersweet for many, but that means that they had an awesome time!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
I would advise new students to talk with people. If you’re comfortable, go around and introduce yourself to your neighbours - you never know who you’ll vibe with. Also, chat with your RA - they’re really nice people (who would have thought, right?) who want you to have an incredible experience. You’ll be spending the next 8 months with this group of people, so getting to know your direct neighbours, building neighbours, and the RLS team (myself included) will go a long way to helping you transition into UofG really smoothly. Come say hi!
Sam, Lambton Residence Life Manager
Hi, I'm Sam! I am a Residence Life Manager (RLM) and my job is to support the Residence Life Staff (RLS) and students in our residence communities! This looks a little different each day but I’m always building connections, meeting with students, and making sure our residence is a welcoming place for all!
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
Residence is such a unique place and it fosters a lot of independence, growth, and self-discovery. I feel really honoured to be someone who can help support others as they learn more inside and outside of the classroom environment and discover their authentic selves!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Keeping an open-mind is so important – not only for meeting new people and taking on new perspectives, but also in terms of what you want your residence experience to look like. Change is bound to happen and so being willing to adapt and lean on the supports around you will help you to grow in those moments of uncertainty! Also remember to drink lots of water and stay hydrated (and no, coffee doesn’t count)!
Ella, HUB Staff
Hi my name is Ella, I am going to my third year of political science with a minor in theatre studies. I will be working as a Programming Office Staff in the HUB which means I would be working with a team of amazing people to offer programming support to members of the RLS staff for the up coming year!
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love residence life mainly because of how at home everyone makes you feel and how willing and able everyone is to offer a helping hand of support when needed. In addition I also love how inclusive and understanding everyone is!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
This isn’t really a tip but a word of advice and it would be I encourage you all to try as many new and interesting things on campus as you can! It may be taking up a new skill, or joining a club, or participating in school spirit. I would say put yourself out there and make the best of your time in residence because the years do really fly by so quickly! Lastly I would also like to say I am always here and available for anyone who would like to chat!
Christian, Lambton Residence Assistant
Hi, I'm Christian! I am an RA placed in Lambton residence. My job is to help students connect with each other and form positive relationships while in residence.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love living in residence for a few reasons. Getting to anywhere on campus is only a short walk away whether it be the dining halls, athletic center, or even the lecture halls. The University of Guelph has top tier campus food that never disappoints. Lastly, everybody’s favourite place, the arboretum is my favourite place to go on campus to jog or even just a chill walk with my friends.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Best advice I can give new students is do not be shy. Everyone is in the same boat and people want to meet new friends. There will always be people with the same interests waiting to meet you and help you out along the way. Just remember residence is a place to have fun!
Kayleigh, Prairie Residence Life Manager
My name is Kayleigh, I’m a Residence Life Manager, and this year I’ll be overseeing and working in Prairie Hall, in our South residences. As an RLM I supervise and support a team of Residence Advisors and a Community Assistant, and together we provide support for all students in the building, create both educational and fun programming opportunities, build accountable and inclusive spaces, and ensure that students thrive and succeed throughout the year. I also participate in a manager on-call rotation to ensure that there is always support available to students across all residence buildings at all hours of the day, 7 days a week.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I enjoy working in residence life because I love working with and supporting students! Residence is such a unique opportunity to build strong connections, for student development and personal growth, and it’s such a joy to watch communities come together to support each other throughout the year. I also love working and professionally developing student staff, and collaborating with them on addressing student needs through programming, 1:1s and community meetings, to name a few things we do! I lived in residence throughout my undergraduate degree and loved it so much that I keep coming back!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
It’s okay to be excited and nervous as you’re planning your move into residence! This is a time to explore, to try out new skills, and to personally learn and grow. One thing to remember is that you’re never alone- there’s always an abundance of support on campus and in residence. Before you move in/as you move into residence, think about what you need and want from a community, and the things that help you to succeed, and then tell us! We’re excited to work with you and help build and maintain a residence community that you want to live in. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for help- that’s one of the main reasons why we’re here! And most of all, make the most of your time with us- get involved! There’s so many diverse opportunities awaiting you, and we can’t wait to see what you choose to partake in!
Susan, Johnston, Arts House and Mills Residence Life Manager
I'm Susan, I work as a Residence Life Manager. Every day is a little different, but involves working with student staff like RAs to help them succeed in their roles. I also work directly with students if they ever need support, or have an issue or question, they are welcome to come talk with me!
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
Residence is such a learning opportunity for students – it is really cool to be part of that experience!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
There’s not only one way to have a University experience. It’s okay if things aren’t as you imagined, it’s okay if you get homesick or struggle from time to time. There are lots of people here to help and support you! Also, be sure to check your mailbox!
Erin, Maritime Residence Life Manager
Hi, I'm Erin! My role is a Residence Life Manager, specifically for Maritime Hall. My role is to support students in the building through different ways so they are having the best experience in residence possible. I work very closely with the RAs in the building to create a supportive community where students feel a sense of belonging. I also work to support students on an individual basis, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support!
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
Residence is a unique place, what I often say is that residence life is something you can only truly understand once you are a part of it! Something I love about living in residence is all the experience (large or small) that come along with it. Where else can you say I met my friend because one time we were brushing our teeth next to each other in the bathroom?!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Engage as much as you are comfortable with. Your residence experience is how much you make of it! And being engaged can look different for different people. The more involved you are, the more likely you are to find new friends, interests, passion and maybe even a future job!
Sandra, East Village Cluster Leader
Hi, I'm Sandra! As a part of the Academic Learning Communities (ALC) Team this year, my role in residence will be to provide both in-person and virtual academic support for first year students living in East Village and remote students on Gryphons Nest! I will be planning lots of fun study sessions, running Academic-Drop-in Sessions at the East ADC, and connecting with students to help them navigate their first University classes!
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love living in residence because of all the amazing people that you meet on a daily basis! I love to connect with all the new students and make them feel welcome and supported in our big Gryphon family! The most fun part about living in residence is the great community events and study session that are always going on. You will never be bored here and the memories you make will last a lifetime!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
My biggest piece of advice for living in residence is putting yourself out there to connect with new people! It's always scary at first to make new friends but there is no doubt that you will connect with amazing people if you come to events that are run by your RAs and CLs! We love to create an inclusive environment for everyone and when you participate in events and clubs on campus you make your experience at Guelph 1000 times better! Trust me!
Stewart, East Residence Life Manager
My name is Stewart, my role is a Residence Life Manager for East Residence. I supervise the building's Residence Life Staff and oversee the general day to day management of East Residence and the Residence Life operations. I will meet with students to provide support and referrals to campus partners and resources, as well as follow up on incidents in residence.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love residence life because residence is such a prime opportunity to grow for many students and being able to provide support and guidance to both students and staff during their university experience knowing that I've made a positive impact really give me joy. My favourite part is watching students grow through their experiences in residence and on campus.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Get involved with the many opportunities residence has to offer from Interhall Council to events put on by residence life staff. You will make so many meaningful connections through these opportunities, that will only enhance and support your experience at the University of Guelph! What you put in, is what you get out.
Sam, Lennox-Addington Residence Life Manager
Hi, I'm Sam! I am the Residence Life Manager for Lennox-Addington. In my role, I support and supervise all of the students and communities that live in L/A residence through leading a team of 18 Residence Life Staff members and directly by being a professional support person for both RLS and students.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I love what I do because it gives me the opportunity to positively impact so many people at a critical point in their lives, and the friendships and experiences that I’ve enjoyed so much I want others to enjoy as well! The people who I get to work with are some of the best and most enthusiastic people I’ve met, and that positivity and passion for making other people’s lives better drives my love for residence life.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
The most helpful advice that I can give is to really challenge yourself to get out there and meet people – one of the most incredible parts of the university experience is interacting with and learning from so many diverse and different individuals. Most of what I truly “learned” at university had nothing to do with the classroom and had everything to do with the people I was with, and I still cherish the opportunity to learn and grow alongside so many people who are going through the same thing!
Karli, Cluster Leader
Hey everyone! My name is Karli and I’m a Bio Sci Cluster Leader in Addington! My role is to facilitate learning and promote academic success — there are so many fun ways to learn & study and that is exactly what I will be there to help you with. As a community, we will learn together and collaborate to find the best strategies for studying and exam prep. Studying is different in university than it is in high school — there’s a lot more content to learn — but it can actually be enjoyable (I’m not just saying that). Together, we will learn how to effectively & enjoyably study and succeed.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
Residence Life is an amazing way to get involved with students in your year & program, as well as make connections with upper year students. While this upcoming year will be my first time living in residence, I became involved with Residence Life through Gryphon’s Nest and it made the transition from high school to university so much easier. I felt apart of a community while doing school from home and it made my first year so much more enjoyable. Now more than ever, we all need a support system and through Res Life & your community, you have automatically a built-in support system. You can’t help but love it!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Get involved! I know sometimes some events may seem boring, or some study groups with your Cluster Leader don’t seem necessary (and maybe they aren’t!), but by attending these events, you’ll be guaranteed to meet more people. Sometimes it’s through the things that you would’ve never expected that you meet your best friends.
Vijay, East Residence Assistant
My name is Vijay, I am one of the Residence Assistants (RAs) in East Residence this fall. I will support you as you settle into your new life in residence by answering your questions and making you feel at home.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I have been to many countries around the world where I have explored their cultures, traditions, and especially the different types of food! I can feel the same traveling vibes right here at the University of Guelph residences. I love meeting different people and getting to know them (and their recipes!).
In residence, it is not just you, we will never let you feel isolated. It is a family here; we organize events and ensure all new residents interact with each other and make connections. The ambiance to study and enlighten your knowledge has been well designed. It is peaceful, calm, and awesome to study amidst the nice view from the windows with the company of the chirping birds.
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
* Don't be afraid to communicate any issue/concerns (no matter how silly it is!)
* Keep meeting new people and create a friendship circle.
* Participate actively in all events that are organized at the residence.
* Take breaks when you need to (listen to music or take a 10 min walk in the Arboretum).
* Handle the residence amenities with care just like how you would be with the resources at your home. Be a role model for all the other residents/roommates.
Sarah, Maritime Residence Assistant
My name is Sarah, I work in Student Housing as a Residence Assistant, or RA. I live in residence and support a community of new students in Maritime Hall as they transition into University life by being there as a support who can answer questions, help with issues and be a welcoming presence for new students on-campus to make them feel as comfortable as I can.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
I didn’t get the chance to live on-campus first year, so I am super excited to just be among other students and experience new things with you as I help students transition to being university students!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
Don’t overthink having to share spaces and stress about not having enough privacy. You’ll always be busy socializing or working on school stuff, so you won’t have to be stuck in one spot for very long. Be open to trying new things and new experiences because that’s what university is all about! Join that club, say "hi" to that student who sits near you in a class, and try something new from one of the amazing dining halls!
Dan, Mountain Residence Life Manager
Hi, I'm Dan. I am the Residence Life Manager (full time professional staff) for Mountain Hall. In my role I manage all of our Residence Assistants (RAs), provide one on one support for any concerns that you might have and I help to create a safe, inclusive and fun environment for everyone in residence.
Why do you love living in residence/residence life?
Part of the reason why I love residence is because it is such a great environment to help students meet new friends, explore some of their interest and make memories that will last you through your university career. Go to a planned event, chat with a new friend in the dining hall, all these things will help open you up to new ideas and opportunities!
What tips do you have for a new student related to residence?
First year can be tricky! There is a lot of new responsibilities that you will take on and lots of new priorities to balance. If you are ever feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or homesick; know that there are plenty of staff in residence that are here to help you through your transition. Stop by my office or knock on your RAs door if you ever want to chat.
We look forward to welcoming you home this fall!
