Big city with small town feel: A student's perspective

By Natalie Cormier

As I sat at my desk last week, I took notice of an article. Each year, the Globe & Mail releases its Canadian University Report which highlights the results of their student survey. As a senior university student, one particular article titled “Halifax: the ultimate college town" forced me to reminisce on the past four years I have lived in Halifax.

I am grateful I choose Halifax as my destination. For the past four years, I have been exposed to a thousand new things that now make up who I am as a student, employee and individual.

Moving from a small Cape-Breton fishing community, Halifax first appeared overwhelming. As I entered my first year as a public relations student at Mount Saint Vincent University, I realized the exact opposite.

I quickly learned my way around the city. Like the 23,000 other full-time students that call Halifax their “home away from home”, I have taken full advantage of my university experience. I must admit that my time in Halifax has slightly changed my habits. I now enjoy the taste of chai lattes and regularly practice yoga. In my opinion, this city is the ideal place for any student looking for a great study-play balance. What better way to celebrate the end of a semester than sitting outside with friends at the Lower Deck while listening to great music?

Halifax’s vibrant yet relaxing lifestyle has convinced me that this is where I want to begin my career. Living in a place that has weathered the worst of the economic storm has left me with great confidence. I will soon make the transition from student to employee and look forward in continuing my adventure here in Halifax.

-Natalie Cormier is a senior Public Relations student at Mount Saint Vincent University. Natalie is currently a co-op student at Greater Halifax Partnership.

Images courtesy of: Nova Scotia Come to Life