5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Came to McGill University

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An image of McGill arts building taken in fall

Are you gearing up for your journey to McGill University? Congratulations on embarking on this exciting new chapter of your life! As a seasoned student who has walked the halls of McGill, I understand that the anticipation can be a mix of exhilaration and trepidation. To help you navigate this academic adventure more smoothly, here are five invaluable insights I wish I had known before I set foot on campus:

1. Embrace the Winter with Open Arms
As the saying goes, “Winter is coming,” and in Montreal, it can be particularly fierce. The winters at McGill can be incredibly cold and snowy, but with the right mindset and appropriate attire, you can conquer the elements. Invest in a good winter coat, warm boots, gloves, and a cozy scarf. Also, don’t let the cold weather dampen your spirit. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, and there are plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy, from ice skating in Parc La Fontaine to sipping hot chocolate at local cafes.

2. Engage in Campus Life
McGill University boasts a vibrant campus life filled with clubs, organizations, and events that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re into sports, arts, culture, or social activism, there’s likely a group that aligns with your passions. Don’t hesitate to get involved. Participating in extracurricular activities is not only a great way to make friends but also a chance to develop valuable skills and build your network.

3. Time Management is Key
University life is all about striking a balance between academics, social life, and personal growth. It’s easy to become overwhelmed with coursework, readings, and assignments, especially during exam season. Develop strong time management skills early on. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to stay organized, break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and create a study schedule that accommodates your learning style. By managing your time effectively, you’ll reduce stress and have more time for activities you enjoy.

4. Seek Help When Needed
At McGill, you’re not alone on your academic journey. Professors, teaching assistants, advisors, and peer tutors are all resources available to help you succeed. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek clarification, or request assistance when you’re struggling with coursework. The university offers various support services, including writing centers, math help centers, and mental health resources. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

5. Explore Beyond Campus
While McGill’s campus is bustling with activity, Montreal itself is a vibrant city with so much to offer. Take advantage of your time here to explore the local culture, cuisine, and attractions. From the historic Old Port to the bustling arts scene in the Plateau neighborhood, there’s something for everyone. Try different cuisines, attend music festivals, and explore the city’s rich history. Not only will this enhance your overall university experience, but it will also create lasting memories.

Introducing Veronica: Liaison Librarian for Kinesiology and Physical Education, Linguistics, and Philosophy

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Our Passionate Liaison Librarian with a Knack for Connecting People and Information

We are delighted to introduce our newest team member, Veronica Bergsten to the Humanities and Social Sciences Library as the new Liaison Librarian for Kinesiology and Physical Education, Linguistics, and Philosophy. Veronica is a dedicated librarian with a passion for serving the community and a love for all things music. Her journey into the world of libraries began with a deep-rooted desire to help others and an insatiable curiosity for information.

Veronica Bergsten is a young woman with long dark brown hair and glasses. She is smiling widely with bright red lipstick. She is seen from the chest up, wearing a dark blue shirt.

Veronica’s pursuit of a career in libraries was motivated by her innate love for finding information and connecting with new people. After completing her undergraduate degree, she was drawn to the idea of a profession that would allow her to continuously search for knowledge while making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Little did she know that librarianship perfectly encapsulated both of these passions.

As Veronica delved deeper into the profession, she discovered the incredible potential to utilize the skills she had acquired while working in a university setting. Her experiences at the University of Alberta, from her role as a student worker at the University of Alberta Libraries to supervising the ONEcard program, cultivated a service-oriented mindset that became the cornerstone of her professional practice.

During her Master’s of Information Studies program, Veronica further honed her expertise as a Graduate Student Reference Assistant (GSRA) at McGill Library. Here, she had the opportunity to answer reference questions and collaborate with other librarians to conduct workshops. Upon graduation, Veronica embraced the role of a Teaching & Research Librarian at Concordia University Library, where she fostered connections with students, faculty, and researchers across various disciplines. Notably, she played an instrumental role in creating an educational mini-series that explored emerging trends and technologies in the realm of information.

Now, with an array of rich experiences under her belt, Veronica is thrilled to return to McGill and embark on new endeavours in her latest role. Her past experiences have shaped her into a librarian who is committed to helping users on their academic and lifelong journeys. She finds immense joy in teaching users the skills and resources they need, and this unwavering motivation propels her to continuously strive for excellence.

Outside of her professional life, Veronica is a true connoisseur of music. Her free time is often spent attending concerts and scouring record shops in Montreal, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene. Whether it’s discovering new artists to see live or expanding her eclectic vinyl collection, Veronica’s love for music knows no bounds. She even enjoys knitting while listening to her favourite records, creating a harmonious blend of relaxation and creativity.

As our readers appreciate getting to know the individuals behind the library services, Veronica’s diverse range of interests and hobbies truly adds depth to her character. She eagerly welcomes recommendations for record stores and concert venues, always seeking new avenues to explore the world of music:)

We are delighted to have Veronica join our library team, bringing her passion for serving the community, her wealth of experience, and her vibrant personality. Her dedication to connecting people with the information they seek is bound to enhance the services we provide. Let’s give Veronica a warm welcome as she begins this exciting new chapter in her journey as a librarian!