I started my BA in Social Work at Carleton in 2020. I was one of those students that spent my first 2 years totally online! Obviously, covid was a difficult time for everyone, and that exacerbated the difficulties of starting university because providing guidance online to someone who’s never gone to university before is hard. I didn’t have an orientation, or a frosh week, and didn’t meet anybody until the third year! However, things are definitely better now.

Carleton’s campus is huge, with lots of fun places to sit, several places to grab some food or a snack, cafes, you name it! I quite enjoy using the gym on campus, although it is usually super busy! It’s a decent size with lots of equipment, and it’s a great place to meet people on campus. There are clubs (although I haven’t joined any) and lots of events at Ollie’s (the school restaurant/bar that turns into a club some nights). The classrooms are also quite nice, and when a class isn’t going on, they’re a great place to sit and get some work done.

In terms of profs, obviously, my experience is a little bit biased because I’m only in social work, but what I will say is that it can be overwhelming! Carleton is not a university where you can just slack and pass a course. Participation is usually marked and monitored, and the expectations for assignments are high! There are opportunities for placements/co-ops for credits depending on your program, and lots of jobs you can get on campus as well.

Overall, now that it’s not all online and I’ve been able to get the full university experience, I have enjoyed it way more. I hope you enjoy your Carleton experience too! 🙂

Carleton Univeristy is a great institution that is really committed to the success of each student in and out of the classroom. Carleton offers a variety of course options within each program that allow students to fully explore the depth of their chosen field of study. Carleton also has a variety of in-person and online resources available to ensure students of all different backgrounds, learning styles, and future aspirations are able to make the most of their academic experience. Resources like Paul Menton Centre for Students with Disabilities, Writing Services, and Career Services all aid in the academic journey of all students

So far my experience at Carleton University is great. My professors are extremely effective at teaching and helpful when I request extra help and time for assignments, the campus is pretty easy to navigate and the tunnels are an added bonus to avoid the winter weather.