First-Year Students Settle into Toronto Metropolitan University Residences

Move-in day at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) marked a significant milestone for over 1,100 first-year students on March 3, 2024. As these students transitioned into campus residences just a week before classes commence, many faced the dual challenge of excitement and financial concerns.

Among the newcomers was Cailey Dirksen, who expressed her mixed feelings while moving into her dorm. Originally from Ottawa, Dirksen is enrolled in performance production. “I’m really excited but also nervous, understandably,” she said. “I’m going to miss my mom. I’m going to miss my home. But there’s going to be so many new adventures.” With plans to decorate her room with a bulletin board filled with photos, Dirksen is eager to embrace university life.

Financial Challenges for Students

As students settled into their new living spaces, financial considerations loomed large. Natalie Dirksen, Cailey’s mother, reflected on the costs associated with university life. “You just keep paying. Pay this, pay this,” she stated, highlighting the financial strain of tuition and living expenses. While the tuition is manageable, she noted that the combined costs of accommodation and food can exceed $12,000 for three semesters.

Valerie Bruce, director of student housing and strategic partnerships at TMU, acknowledged the challenges posed by rising accommodation costs. “It’s for sure a challenge. We have limited space and lots of demand,” she said. Bruce also mentioned that while demand for on-campus housing has decreased this year compared to previous years, the university’s limited downtown space continues to be a concern. “Based on the first-year population in residence, we have quite a small group with us,” she added.

Bruce explained the university’s application process, which prioritizes students who live further from the institution. “We do an application that is a priority system,” she noted, emphasizing the need for fair allocation of available housing.

International and Domestic Student Demographics

According to a recent TMU news release, the students moved into their dorms across three residence buildings. This early move-in opportunity allows them to acclimate to their new surroundings before classes begin. Notably, 73 percent of incoming residence students are under the age of 19, and 83 percent hail from Canada, while only 17 percent are international students, with the largest group coming from the United States.

First-year student Claire Cormier, who is studying image arts, shared her experience with the housing application process. After being placed on a waitlist, she felt considerable stress about securing accommodation. “It was definitely stressful; at one point I was like, ‘I won’t have anywhere to live,'” she said, illustrating the uncertainties faced by many students during this transition.

As the new academic year approaches, both students and parents navigate the complexities of university life, balancing the excitement of new beginnings with financial realities. With ongoing support from TMU, students like Dirksen and Cormier are poised to embark on their educational journeys, ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.