Today marks the beginning of a new school year for students living on Georgian College's Orillia campus.
Eleanor Sidley, the general manager of residence, says there is an exciting atmosphere as students move into residence on campus today.
"We have a lot of first-year students moving in today," she said. "You can tell they are very excited and nervous to start their new chapter."
This year, 192 students are living in residence, putting the Orillia campus living accommodations at full capacity.
"When you live on campus, you kind of have a built-in community," Sidley said. "It's important to have that strong support system."
She says students and staff have been excited for the new school year since the last one concluded.
While classes don't officially resume until Tuesday, Sidley encourages students to get acclimated with the campus now.
"Get integrated with the community a little bit and meet other people. It makes a huge difference," she said.
First-year developmental services student Emma Roberts made the move to Orillia this morning from her hometown of Walkerton. She says she's looking forward to her program.
"I really have a passion for special-needs work," she said. "I love helping people."
She says Georgian Orillia is ideal for students who thrive in a more intimate environment.
"I like that it's a smaller school," she said. "You don't get lost, we have gorgeous trails behind the school, and our apartment-style residence is really nice."
Roberts is looking forward to meeting new people on campus this year.
"It's important to put yourself out there. I'm excited to connect with clubs at school and just really make the most of it," she said.
Kaylie Young, a third-year addictions treatment and prevention program student, made the move from Elmvale and is glad to be back on campus.
"I'm excited to attend all the events that are hosted by the Georgian College Student Association," she said. "It's going to be a fun year."
She remembers the nerves from moving to campus for the first time, and she encourages new students to not stress themselves out.
"The teachers are very accommodating and will always help you to the best of their abilities," she said.
In her first year, Young says she didn't socialize enough, and it led to her feeling depressed.
"You have to do your schoolwork," she said, "but you also have to live your life and have fun."
For those moving away from home for the first time, she encourages them to find experienced students to help guide them along the way.
"Try to find a group of people that you click with," she said. "It's also a good idea to FaceTime family back home to stay in touch and avoid any homesickness."