The University of Guelph has a very cooperative and motivating environment. It has the power to really keep you motivated and happy throughout your studies. In terms of financial support, the department informed students of all scholarship opportunities available and encouraged our applications.
The University of Guelph is a professional, fun, and integrated school to complete your graduate studies. The professors are experts in their respective fields and the graduate students are working on leading-edge research. Although Guelph does not have the high profile of other Ontario universities, the education you will receive and the work you will do is exciting as you will stand out against competitors.
I've been very privileged and lucky since coming to Guelph for my undergraduate degree back in 2010 as all of the opportunities I have been given have been gained through building strong relationships with faculty and staff on campus and finding mentors that have helped guide me along my career path. I've always found that the people on campus are incredibly giving and willing to devote their time to help out students. I've also found that simply starting with expressing an interest to be more involved and showing initiative can go a very long way to opening doors to new opportunities.
In graduate studies, you will work harder than you have ever worked, but it is going to be so rewarding. There are experts in every field at the University of Guelph, who will support you and offer so many resources that are available to help you succeed. You are also going to meet some incredible people along the way, especially since there is such strong comradery among fellow graduate students. I know this is a cliché, but I think you get out of your time here what you put into it, and there are so many opportunities available to take advantage of, to ensure you have a great experience.
Guelph was actually one of my top choices for my undergraduate degree. Having chosen a different university to do my undergrad, when applying for graduate school, I knew I wanted to attend Guelph to continue my studies! The CCJP program appealed to my criminology background and my work experience in the criminal justice system.. I knew this was the program for me!
You can walk from one end of campus to the other easily within 10 minutes, and only have to cross one major road if you’re headed east/west (none if travelling north/south). The arboretum is absolutely beautiful, and a great place to go for a lunch time walk on those days that you need an escape from the office/lab. The cafeterias are excellent, and cater to every type of eater. There are always vegan and vegetarian options available, and everything is labeled with potential allergens.
This is a program that is very responsive to student needs, so if you have a question or want to pursue a line of discussion, be sure to ask! There is a considerable commitment to participants' career and personal growth, as well as to the more formal education elements. I appreciated that "all-around" approach.
Be informed. Always make sure that you understand each and every step of what you're trying to accomplish, but at the same time don't be afraid to plunge into the unknown. Be mindful of what makes you happy, and pursue your goals with a passion because at the end of the day, when we look back at our accomplishments, the gratification from that is what keeps us going.
