The Residence Choice.

Choosing a university and a program is very difficult, especially with all your choices and options, weighing the differences and similarities can be exhausting! And then the discussion of residence and housing comes up which can bring you to yet another decision road block. 

In my opinion, choosing a residence is just like choosing a university in the sense that it's purely a personal decision and in most cases, based upon a feeling you get when you visit and about where you see yourself living for 8 months. Therefore, there is no secret formula that makes choosing a residence a piece of cake.

I have however, found that there are a few things you can ask yourself to make your decision making process potentially a bit smoother. 

First, consider whether or not you want to be a part of a large residential community or a smaller residential community. 
Answering this question will lead to discover whether one of the main rresidences (Village 1, Mackenzie King Village, Ron Edyt Village, or UW Place) are for you, or whether you should consider the smaller University Colleges residences (St. Jerome's, Conrad Grebel, St. Pauls, or Renison). 

Next, think about what kind of living arrangement you would prefer. You will be choosing between a traditional dormitory style or suite style.
This is where this decision becomes complex because you must factor in numerous things:

• Do I prefer to have a single or double room? 
• Is living with several people in an apartment style residence something I would enjoy?
• What kind of meal plan do I want?  Do I want to cook for myself?
• Am I comfortable with sharing a common bathroom?
• Do I want to live in a Living and Learning Community?

And finally, you will want to think about the type of facilities that are important to you and how accessible they are. This includes study areas, laundry mats, fitness centres, eateries, and lounges. 


As the June 2nd deadline for the completion of your Residence Preference Form approaches, these three areas to consider may help you narrow down your choices. Follow this link to a helpful page that will break down the residences and compare them to one another.

And remember, when all else fails, go with your gut instinct!