The City that Never Sleeps

As Dr. Seuss once said, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened”. Thinking about it now while transitioning into my second year at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), it is important for me to reflect on my accomplishments and experiences as a first-year student to best anticipate what my future awaits. In writing this I hope that I can best capture my top 5 experiences with one idea in mind, "to live in the moment".

As students were settling into their new lifestyles at Toronto Metropolitan University, there was a sense of urgency that lingered in the air. During my first year, making connections and attending school events were everybody’s main priorities, however, it was in my best interest to take advantage of this newfound freedom. After going door-to-door throughout my residence and pulling together a group of followers, a plan was established to attend a Blue Jays game. Although I was not a fan of baseball at the time, it was the experience that stood out for me. This simple venture out in the city of Toronto had a great impact as I believe this was the moment that established my community of friends.

In my eyes, participating in intramural sports (external link, opens in new window)  hosted by TMU will top any recreational or competitive sport I did growing up. Aside from the large assortment of teams and sports you can join, it was an activity that brought all sorts of students together, including those in upper years as well as alumni. The sport I chose was dodgeball, and our team eventually made it to the finals, which we ended up losing. I would say my team and I weren’t great whatsoever, though win or lose, after each game we would pick a place to celebrate our participation. Through intramurals, I have met many great people, and learned about many of the astounding food options that the city offers.

The greatest adventures are the ones that go unplanned because it seems that opportunity manages to find you. On the night of my birthday, my friends and I intended to have an eventful evening, though things took a turn for the better. A few of the restaurants we ended visiting either was not able to accommodate the large party size, or the kitchen happened to be closing upon our arrival. The evening was quickly falling apart until we saw the "Artful Dodger Pub" under the moonlight. We ended up finishing my birthday celebration with a group-wide pool tournament, and although we were in Toronto, I felt at home.

Attending TMU, a school right in the heart of downtown, there are many closed doors waiting to be opened. Kensington Market, located west of Spadina along Dundas St. W, is a neighbourhood in Toronto that will always remain my favourite place. Filled with ambiguity, there is always something new to explore. Whenever I needed a break from academics or time to clear my mind, I would indulge in the endless clothing markets or watch a live music event held right on the street. To any newcomers, I would recommend going to "Film Café (external link, opens in new window) ", a restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and a space that allows artists to express themselves on open mic nights. Although Toronto might be the city that never sleeps, Kensington is the caffeine that keeps you up at night.

Regardless of the circumstances, it will always be my top priority to celebrate any upcoming holiday. On the weekend of Halloween during my first year, students (including myself) had assessments and group-related tasks due early the following week. Although I was excited to experience Halloween in the city, the academic side of things took over. Luckily, the weekend was not at all that bad considering I was still able to dress up with a group of friends and complete our work in various public libraries and coffee shops around Toronto. We may have gotten a few eyebrows raised in our direction, but living out a childhood tradition made it worthwhile.