Finding Your Place at Lakehead
Starting university is a big milestone. Whether you’re moving into residence, commuting from home, or joining us from another country, the transition can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to take in: a new campus, new people, and new responsibilities.
At Lakehead, we know how important it is to feel like you belong. Feeling connected—academically, socially, culturally—can make a big difference in your well-being, confidence, and overall experience.
Here are some practical ways to start finding your place on campus, no matter your starting point.
Come In With an Open Mind
It’s natural to feel a little out of place at first, but staying open to new people and experiences can help ease that discomfort.
Attend Welcome Events: Orientation activities aren’t just for fun or even for first years: they’re designed to help you meet people, learn your way around, and discover what’s available to you. Check out the schedule and see what appeals to you!
Start Conversations: Say hello to someone in your lecture, ask a question during a campus tour, or sit with someone new in the cafeteria. A small conversation can lead to big connections.
Be Honest About Where You’re At: It’s okay to say you’re still figuring things out. Chances are, the person next to you is too.
Try Different Ways to Get Involved
There are many paths to connection—your people might be in your program, in a club, or at the gym. Keep exploring until something clicks.
Join a Club or Team: Whether you're into robotics, social justice, hiking, or anime, there’s probably a student group for it. Check out LUSU’s clubs or keep an eye out for club fairs and involvement expos.
Find Community Spaces: The Indigenous Initiatives, the International Student Lounge, and LUSU's Student Centres are just a few places where students can find community and culturally relevant support.
Get Active: Intramural sports, drop-in recreation, and outdoor programs are great ways to meet people while moving your body. You don’t need to be an athlete, just willing to try something new.
Build Academic Connections
Your courses are more than just a place to take notes—they’re an opportunity to meet people with shared interests and goals.
Talk to Classmates: Try introducing yourself before or after class. Ask a question about the reading or offer to share notes.
Form Study Groups: Many students find support and motivation through peer study groups. Your professor or TA might even help you get one started or check to see what groups the Academic Support Zone is offering this semester.
Get Involved in Your Program: Some departments have student societies or events designed to help students network, get involved in research, or connect with upper-year students.
Know Where to Spend Time
Sometimes, just showing up in the right place can open doors to new friendships.
Hang Out in Student Spaces: Whether it’s The Study Coffeehouse in Thunder Bay or the Learning Commons in Orillia, spending time in shared spaces gives you more chances to meet people.
Attend Workshops or Drop-Ins: Student Health and Wellness, the Writing Centre, and the Academic Support Zone offer small-group workshops and open hours where you can learn and connect in a relaxed setting.
Volunteer: Getting involved in campus events, peer mentoring, or community service is a great way to give back and build your network.
Don’t Panic If You Feel Overwhelmed
Feeling disconnected at first is completely normal. The important thing is to keep taking small steps.
You’re Not Alone: Many students feel unsure, homesick, or out of place in the first few weeks (or even months).
You Don’t Have to Do Everything Right Away: Start with one or two ways to get involved. Build from there.
Ask for Help: Whether it’s questions about your student account, support with coursework, or mental health, there are people here to support you. Visit Student Central, Student Health and Wellness, or talk to your academic advisor.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single way to build a sense of belonging at university—it looks different for everyone. Some students connect right away, while others take a little more time to find their groove.
What matters is that you keep showing up. Try new things, take breaks when you need to, and reach out when something isn’t working. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to begin.
You belong here.