The excitement, which is nearly impossible to contain, the first time one walks through Roddick Gates is something that most, if not all, Â鶹AV freshmen can relate to. I still have the first breath-taking view of the Arts Building engrained in my memory. There was something palpable in the late-August air that foreshadowed just how monumental the next four years were going to be. With its vibrant neighborhoods, moving to MontrĂ©al felt like those movie scenes when the main character is about to embark in a life-changing journey. Now, standing in a cap and gown in front of the very building that welcomed me to campus, taking pictures with my friends one last time, I ponder what I’d tell my past, wide-eyed freshman self about what my time here would be like.
Firstly, I’d tell myself to be wise about the expenditure of my OneCard money. All those poppy-seed breads before evening lectures will add up fast. And for me, they did. I’d advise myself to buy thick gloves before December because Canadian winters can be fierce. A hat to cover your ears is also enormously useful. A scarf too, for fashion and warmth. But mainly for fashion purposes. I would reassure myself that, in the midst of winter, your friends – the ones you might end up referring to as your “Montréal family” – will consistently make you feel warm. In fact, you might not even notice all the snow that is falling because you’re too occupied laughing over coffee, ice-skating, or learning how to ski. These friendships are what you will cherish after you graduate.
I’d encourage myself to go and explore Montréal. It’s a fantastic city, and we’re often so caught up in other things, that we forget to truly enjoy it. There are some phenomenal restaurants outside of the downtown bubble. There are also some remarkable views if you search for them. My personal favorites are watching the sunrise from Mont Royal, and the downtown skyline from Parc Jean Drapeau.
For comfort, and general good sense, some of the best advice I received, and I think is important to pass it on, is to double, tripe, quadruple check my lease agreements. In terms of studying, I’d repeat to myself that there’s not a single right way to do it. Find what works for you and do your best. Also, comparing yourself to others is a waste of time. Carry cash for coat-checking.
I would reiterate the importance of asking questions. There’s so much to learn from your peers, professors, TAs, and virtually everyone you will meet. People have compelling stories to share if you take a moment to listen.
I’d confess that, at times, things are going to be difficult. You might feel vexed and overwhelmed, but it is absolutely crucial to reach out for help, if that is what you need. Having a strong support system – one that understands you and makes you feel safe and loved – is essential. Checking in with yourself is a necessity.
I would remind myself that your experience at Â鶹AV depends on how much of yourself you put into it. Join student clubs, talk to people, put yourself out there and construct the university life you want to have. At the end of the day, it’s up to each one of us to make the best of it.
Be bold.
Lastly, I’d remind myself to enjoy and savor these moments. Your time at Â鶹AV is going to fly by, so live these moments before they become memories. Be present. The pandemic’s arrival in the middle of our academic careers proves just how unexpected and fragile time can be. Do not take for granted MontrĂ©al’s sunny days, the grass on lower-field, Friday nights out, the coffee at Castel, all the instances your friends wait for you to walk to class together. These, and many, many other things encompass the kaleidoscope of what your time here can be. Truly, when I envisioned everything that I wanted my Â鶹AV career to be, I did not think it would be as enjoyable, interesting, and extraordinary as it turned out to be.
If I could go back in time, I’d tell myself to have faith and hope. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Originally born in Ecuador, Samuel has lived in over 8 different cities before moving to MontrĂ©al to pursue a Joint Honours degree in Economics and Finance, with a minor in International Development. During his time at Â鶹AV, he participated as an editor of the Â鶹AV Journal of Economics, as an executive writer and junior editor of the Â鶹AV Business Review, as well as an ambassador for the Â鶹AV International Experience Awards. Professionally, Samuel has explored the entrepreneurial space in Latin America, and also interned in the finance department of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. After graduation, Samuel will start a full-time role in risk consulting. On a personal side, he enjoys creative writing, hiking, and volunteer work related to environmental and wildlife conservation. We wish Samuel all the best on his journey!
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