Finding home in off-campus living at TMU

As an international student, moving to a new country was both exciting and stressful, especially when it came time to find a place to live. Luckily, some of my friends who had joined TMU before I did were living off-campus and recommended that I do the same. After some research, I chose HOEM on Jarvis, an off-campus student residence. 

Off-campus living is an alternative to living in a TMU residence building. This can be at a rental apartment around the downtown core or in a non-affiliated student residence close to TMU.  Student residences offer community and individual space, along with added amenities and support services for students. Apartment rentals on the other hand can be more private but are not student-only. 

Perks of living off-campus

Living off-campus doesn’t mean I’m far away from TMU. The convenience of my short, 10-minute walk to classes allows me to balance spending time on my studies as well as extracurricular activities and events. Plus, I can easily take a quick stroll to downtown Toronto and explore the city whenever I want!

TMU has an Off-Campus Housing Office (opens in new window)  that helps all students with resources and information to facilitate their housing search. Their website is packed with helpful resources on finding a place and everything you need to know about living off-campus (opens in new window) . You can also get in touch with their team if you have specific inquiries about off-campus living or need support. 

Finding my home at HOEM

Finding my residence at HOEM was straightforward. The application process took a few weeks but was a smooth and clear process. I initially opted for the four-bedroom apartment, which was spacious and comfortable, and I was matched with great roommates with whom I still keep in touch. My advice to fellow students looking for off-campus living is to start your search early, be clear about what you’re looking for in a residence, reach out to current residents for insights and apply as soon as you can. Many student residences also offer virtual tours to help you choose the best suite for your needs. 

Life at HOEM on Jarvis

HOEM on Jarvis offers furnished apartments designed with student life in mind. Each apartment comes with high-speed internet, a fully equipped kitchen, and modern furniture – providing all the comforts of a home. The building also offers study lounges, a fitness centre, and various communal areas like creative labs and hangout spots.

I chose to live at HOEM on Jarvis because of its location, modern amenities and inclusive community. From fitness classes to cultural nights, it’s easy to meet new people and build long-lasting relationships. Off-campus residences around TMU usually host students from different institutions, enabling connections with peers who share similar interests and experiences. This diverse community has enriched my university experience, allowing me to learn from others and build a network beyond TMU. 

Impact on my TMU experience

Living in a residence has taught me valuable life skills such as budgeting, time management and cooking! I’ve also had the unique opportunity to work at HOEM as a Community Assistant since August 2023 and I love it. 

As a Community Assistant, I work with a great team to support fellow students, plan events and create a welcoming environment. These events not only provide entertainment but also build a strong sense of community among residents. Organizing these activities and interacting with fellow residents has been a highlight of my time at HOEM. This role has been incredibly rewarding, helping me grow my leadership and interpersonal skills, and providing me with valuable work experience.

Activities and community at HOEM

Living off-campus has been an amazing experience. If you’re worried about it, don’t be! I’ve enjoyed the benefits of independence, community and creating lasting memories. My advice to you is to start your search early, know your priorities and embrace the journey! Off-campus housing provides a unique opportunity to meet people your age, make friends and connect with fellow international students from TMU and other universities. You might just find a place that feels like home.