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Social Psychology at McMaster University
Haya (Year 2)
baigh7@mcmaster.ca
What did you wish you knew before going to your university? What made you choose this institution over all others? What are advantages and disadvantages of your institution or campus? List any advice for incoming first-year students about your university.
My sister had just completed university when I began, so I was fortunately able to see part of her day to day life and her full experience. From waking up a different time every day, catching the bus, 300+ students in one lecture room, the experience was exactly what I expected, and even better. I love university much more than high school because of its air of freedom and personal responsibilities you get to experience. The advantages for me included the school being in the same city as me so I did not have to live on residency, everyone I have met - students, professors, counsellors - they have all been nothing but helpful and respectful. The institution is clean, safe, friendly, and a great work place. These are the many advantages, and I just love walking in our campus, it’s beautiful.
What did you wish you knew before choosing your specific program? What are the advantages and disadvantages of your program? List any advice for incoming first-year students about your program of study.
I wish I knew that it was going to be hard to choose my actual career because my program is actually quite broad and there are so many options.
What was your favourite university experience?
My best experience at university is eating at our best hotdog stand!! Hahahahaa 😂 That is true, but also it is the friendly environment and everyone treats you with maturity and respect.
What was your least favourite university experience?
My “worst” experience is that some of the Teacher’s Assistants (TAs) are more generous than others - there’s no surprise - and it can be difficult to meet the specific expectation of that TA and some are stricter than others in terms of small mistakes, which strongly affects your mark.
What is the hardest part about your program and what were the steps that you took to overcome any difficulties?
The hardest part about my program is that there are more tests than assignments that we receive, and I personally prefer an assignment any day than a test. You need to be focused and you cannot study the period before and wing a test. You need to be studying a little bit every day following the test day in order to be well successful. Listening to the modules and reaching out for help is crucial and the best strategy to succeed in this program, as for my experience.
If you were able to take electives, what was your favourite elective? If you were not able to take electives, what was your favourite course and why?
My favourite course was actually one of my electives and now my minor, Peace and Conflict Studies. I did not think such a class even exists in such a manner, but I realized that there is a course for almost every topic and matter in university, and I love that. You learn so much about practical life and world issues, which I appreciate and enjoy to learn about. A great class with amazing professors, and an interesting route on covering global topics.
Additional Comments
I love and respect going to university and my experience at McMaster has been nothing but wonderful. I am excited for Year 2 and I wish you luck as well :)