Written by Emma Parton
For me, choosing what college to go to ultimately came down to one thing; where would I feel most comfortable and accepted. This was exactly how I felt during my first year at Cromwell.
O-week was wild, yet it was the perfect way to mix with others. Everyone looked ridiculous together, a great opportunity for some bonding which made the transition into Cromwell even easier. By the end of the week, I’d had at least one interaction with each person that I would be living with for the next year or few.
I quickly began to meet returning second and third-year students. Getting involved in sports and cultural events such as Rowing and One Act Play was a great way to do this. Despite my seat coming off the slide mid-race, Rowing was still a highlight, as was One Act Play when shaving cream was strewn across the stage. Breakfasts at the dining hall also became a favourite of mine. Each day you sit with a different group of people, who you have great conversations with, even if they go maybe a little too long into the day.
One of the things I love about Cromwell is that we are a smaller college; you know everyone by name. Our community extends beyond the bounds of the Cromwell campus. Chances are that you’ll know someone wherever you go, whether this be at the gym, the library, or the IGA for a late-night study snack. This was a great comfort, especially at the beginning when navigating the first year of University.
Reflecting on this year I am grateful, for the friends that I have made, for the opportunities to get involved and for the support available. Cromwell is like no other place. I can honestly say that coming to Cromwell is one of the best decisions I have ever made.
