I had the incredible opportunity to pursue my undergraduate degree in Cognitive Science at McGill University, and I can’t say enough about the enriching and fulfilling experience I had during my time there. From the vibrant student culture to the fantastic professors and the charming city of Montreal, McGill truly exceeded my expectations in every way (despite having half of my undergrad experience tainted by COVID-19).

One of the standout features of McGill is its vibrant and diverse student culture. The campus is a melting pot of students from all around the world, creating a truly inclusive and welcoming environment. This cultural diversity not only broadened my horizons but also fostered a sense of unity and understanding among students. The wide array of clubs, organizations, and events on campus allowed me to explore my interests, connect with cool people, and make lifelong friends. Whether it was joining a student club (I was a devoted member of the McGill Ultimate Frisbee team), participating in student-run events, or attending thought-provoking lectures, there was always something exciting happening on campus.

Montreal itself is a fun and affordable city to study in, and it truly complements the McGill experience. The city’s rich history and amazing food, along with the natural beauty that Quebec offers, made every weekend an opportunity for adventure. The cost of living in Montreal is also considerably lower than many other major North American cities, making it much more affordable for students. This allowed me to enjoy my time as a student without constantly worrying about financial constraints.

The professors at McGill University were another key highlight of my experience. They are not only experts in their fields but are also incredibly dedicated to teaching and mentoring their students. They foster an environment of academic excellence and encourage critical thinking, which was especially valuable for a Cognitive Science major like myself. The small class sizes (at least in my more senior years of undergrad) allowed for more personalized interactions with professors, making it easier to seek guidance and explore my academic interests in-depth.

Overall, attending McGill was a worthwhile experience where I feel like I gained character, friends, knowledge, life-long skills, and a love for Montreal!

My three years at McGill thus far have proven to be an emotional roller coaster. I was accepted at the height of the pandemic, and elected to stay home, in Toronto due to the multitude of uncertainties. After doing 4 months of zoom university, I decided I needed to get an experience of residence, even if it wasn’t the normality. From January 2021, I have never looked back. I fell in love with the campus, right at the core of the city, with lively bars, cafes, shops all in such close proximity. The people of Montreal, so friendly, full of life and as humble as I have come across. The student body here constantly motivates one another to excel, while also able to go out and let loose on the weekends. The contents of my education have been thoroughly enjoyable, and there is great support structure at the school, from professors to advisors and even therapists. It is obviously a competitive school, and the onus is on the student to absorb that responsibility of learning, succeeding and utilizing their university years to get a grasp of what they ambition for the future. But the academics is just a part of a multi-faceted experiences that prioritises social engagement, pursuing your hobbies and interests, and coming into the being of an adult. My years here at McGill have proven incumbent in allowing me to learn both within and outside the classroom, grow as an individual, and direct me on a fulfilling path in life.