Five things I wish I knew during my first year at U of GH

A group of students sit around a table

Welcome to the University of Guelph-Humber (U of GH), a strong and thriving academic community where you can experience transformative opportunities, gain theoretical and hands-on learning experiences, meet mentors, and perhaps even make lifelong friends. 

As you begin your university journey, there may be moments of excitement, uncertainty, and discovery. To help you make the most of your first year, five U of GH alumni shared what they wish they had known when they were in your shoes:

Aaron Dawang, Business Administration, Class of 2026

“If I could go back to my first semester, I would tell myself to get involved as much as possible. The opportunities at Guelph-Humber are endless and taking that first step can open doors to connections, experiences, and opportunities you never imagined.”

Ana Downes, Psychology, Class of 2025

“I wish I had known how many possibilities for pathways there were for me. Don’t feel like you have to follow a particular path – put yourself out there, build connections with peers, staff and professors here at U of GH, and stay open to new opportunities that come your way!”

Ashnaa Narumathan, Kinesiology, Class of 2025

“Something I wish I knew when I started my first semester at Guelph-Humber is to be unapologetically yourself, put yourself out there, and embrace the community around you. You may come to Guelph-Humber feeling nervous about what lies ahead, but you will definitely leave with a second family.”

Beatrice Abiog, Kinesiology, Class of 2026

“I wish I knew that it was okay to not have everything figured out. Guelph-Humber has so many different services and outlets of support that I wish I knew about sooner and took more advantage of.”

Gino Lucente, Business Administration, Class of 2025

“I wish I’d known just how much networking matters – putting yourself out there and stepping outside your comfort zone early on opens doors you don’t even know exist yet. Don’t wait until you feel ‘ready’ to start making those connections; they end up mattering just as much as what you learn in the classroom.”  

Published Date
Tuesday, September 8, 2026