Your Guide to Survive UPEI:
Navigating the Jungle of Campus Resources:
Don’t be shy to raid the treasure trove of resources scattered around the
campus. Robertson Library isn’t just for pretending you’re studying in public
or “meet cure”, it’s actually stacked with knowledge-filled items called books.
For those “I shouldn’t have eaten that” moments, the UPEI Student Health
Centre is ready to serve.
And for our international comrades, the International Relations Office is there
to make sure you don’t feel like you’ve landed in the middle of God-knowswhere (spoiler alert: you are).
Lights, Camera, Campus Life:
From the geeky academic societies to the sweaty sports clubs, UPEI is a
circus full of exciting acts! Joining one is a sure-fire way to grow your
Instagram followers and add a few lads to your stalky Snapchat map, master
some cool party tricks, and feel more connected to the university.
The Sweet Taste of Academic Success:
Get cracking on your coursework, but if you stumble, there are academic
advising and tutoring services ready to catch you. Remember, at UPEI, it’s
okay to ask for help.
The faculty and staff are like friendly neighbourhood superheroes, almost
always ready to save the day… if you ask them nicely. During their office
hours. Whenever they are morally ready to help you. And the planets align
during the solar eclipse.
Anyways, you got it.
The Art of Budgeting Wisely
Managing finances is a tricky business when you’re a student. Thankfully,
with student discounts, you can now enjoy two ramen packets for the price
of one!
And for extra help, the UPEI Student Union is like a walking, talking
encyclopedia on financial aid and scholarships, so get in line and hope they
will have time to get back to you.
Remember, university life isn’t just about studying, it’s about making
memories, forming bonds, and most importantly, finding the best coffee shop
on campus.
UNOFFICIAL SURVIVAL TIPS:
While we’re at it, here are some unofficial tips to keep you prepared for your
university life.
Textbook Time: Don’t be too quick to buy all your textbooks brand new. Wait
until you’re a few weeks into the course. You might find that some textbooks
are as useful as a chocolate teapot. In a rare occasions you can’t find the
textbook online and you actually need it, check Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace
as well as Bookman and Book Emporium. Sometimes, they carry donated
student textbooks.
Laundry Lessons: You’ll soon discover that there’s a direct correlation
between the time spent in university and the ability to wear the same hoodie
for an entire week without anyone noticing. Also, ‘laundry day’ is just a code
phrase for ‘I’ve run out of clean underwear.’
Napping Nooks: Master the art of power napping in public spaces. Libraries,
cozy corners in the student union building, even park benches—opportunities
are everywhere. After all, who needs a bed when the entire campus is your
bedroom?
Dining Hall Delights: Remember, the university dining hall is not just a place
to eat; it’s a culinary adventure! Brace yourself for the mystery meat
Tuesdays, where dinner becomes your very own episode of ‘Fear Factor’.
University is not just about learning; it’s about navigating the social labyrinth
with style and a sense of humour!
BONUS RUBRIC: Win over your prof!
‘Apple-polishing’ 2.0: While offering an apple to your
professor might seem outdated, try sharing an
interesting fact related to their subject instead. Think
of it as intellectual apple-polishing. Not that many
students try hard to kiss ass, so they will appreciate it
when you do!
Name Memory: Remembering a professor’s name can
win you brownie points. But calling them by their first
name in a lecture? That’s a surefire way to leave a
memorable impression (though we can’t guarantee it’ll
be a positive one).
Office Hours: Frequent visits to office hours might
seem overzealous, but remember, persistence is key.
They might start remembering your name, if only to
wonder why you’re there… again.
Professor Impressions: Acquiring the art of impressing a
professor may seem as challenging as deciphering
hieroglyphics, but fear not!
Keep your sense of humor, and you’ll have a
great time at UPEI.
By: Grace Biswas
Editor-in-Chief
PDF: Vol 22, Issue 1