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Starting a new year in university brings fresh energy, but it can also feel overwhelming with academic pressures, social commitments, and the quest for balance. Many students struggle to maintain the momentum they set out with, feeling burnout halfway through the semester. The truth is, that success isn’t about perfection; it’s about building sustainable habits that carry you through challenges. 

In this blog, we’ll explore five practical habits that can help you thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Whether you’re a first-year student or preparing for graduation, these tips will set the foundation for a successful 2025 at university and beyond.

Set clear goals and reevaluate them often

Establishing clear goals at the start of the year gives you direction. Goals, whether academic, personal, or professional, act as a roadmap for your time at university. Begin by setting specific, achievable goals rather than vague ambitions. For example, instead of aiming to “do well in classes,” set a goal like “achieve a B+ or higher in each course this semester.” As the term progresses, reassess and adjust your goals based on your achievements and areas that may need extra focus. This habit will keep you aligned and motivated as the academic year unfolds.

Create a practical schedule and commit to it

Time management is essential for university success, but rigid schedules can sometimes do more harm than good. Instead, create a flexible weekly schedule that accounts for classes, study sessions, work, and personal time. Avoid filling every minute with tasks; leave space for adjustments. When planning, remember to prioritize, tackling the most critical assignments and activities first. With a consistent but adaptable schedule, you can effectively balance academics with relaxation and social events. This practice is particularly helpful for students living in Brock University off-campus housing, where independence requires self-discipline.

Cultivate a growth mindset

University life presents challenging subjects, demanding projects, and high expectations. Embracing a progress-oriented mindset—the belief that skills and intelligence can be developed with effort—can make a profound impact on how you face these obstacles. Rather than viewing setbacks as failures, see them as valuable opportunities for growth. For example, if you receive unexpected feedback on an assignment, use it as a tool for improvement rather than taking it as criticism. This perspective encourages resilience, enabling you to face academic and personal challenges with confidence. With a focus on personal growth, you’ll be better prepared to navigate university life, treating each semester as a chance to learn, adapt, and reach new levels of success.

Putting your mental and physical health first

It’s easy to get caught up in academics and forget to take care of yourself, but self-care is essential to long-term success. Stress and burnout are common struggles for university students, but prioritizing your mental health will make a significant difference.

Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate—it can be as simple as getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking regular breaks. Make time for activities you enjoy, whether it’s a hobby, spending time with friends, or exploring the amenities offered at your off-campus housing. Being kind to yourself helps maintain focus, keep anxiety at bay, and ensure you have the energy to stay on top of your studies.

Surround yourself with supportive networks

University is not only about academics; it’s also about building lifelong relationships and networking for future opportunities. Building connections can provide emotional support, career guidance, and even lifelong friendships.

Make an effort to connect with your classmates, join clubs, and participate in campus activities. Having a supportive network can make your time at Brock University enjoyable and less stressful. If you’re living in off-campus housing, organize social gatherings or study groups with your neighbours – it’s a great way to meet new people and foster community bonds.

Concluding Thoughts

Starting the year with intentional habits is key to not only excelling academically but also fully enjoying your university journey. Developing routines like setting clear goals, staying consistent, prioritizing well-being, and nurturing supportive connections will allow you to thrive beyond the classroom and experience a balanced, rewarding life.

At Parkway Lofts, we understand the importance of a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Our off-campus housing near Brock University provides the ideal environment to foster these habits. With fully furnished apartments, quiet spaces for study, and a community designed to support your academic and personal growth, Parkway Lofts is more than just a place to live—it’s a place where success can thrive.

For many students, spending the holidays away from home can feel less festive and more isolating. Without familiar family traditions and comforts, the Christmas season may seem a bit lacklustre. But what if you could transform your student accommodation into a festive haven filled with warmth and joy?

In this blog, we’ll explore simple, budget-friendly ways to bring the holiday spirit to your space. From easy DIY decorations to creating a cozy atmosphere, we’ll show you how to enjoy a festive Christmas right in your off-campus housing near Brock University. By the end, you’ll be ready to embrace the season with all the cheer and comfort of home.

 

Budget-friendly decoration ideas that pack a festive punch

Decorating your student accommodation doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Start by hitting up dollar stores and thrift shops for affordable decorations like string lights, which can instantly warm up any room. Create paper snowflakes for your windows – a classic craft that costs virtually nothing but adds undeniable charm. Consider investing in a small artificial tree that you can reuse each year or think outside the box by crafting a wall-mounted tree using string lights in a fun, festive shape.

Don’t forget to browse local buy-and-sell groups for second-hand decorations. These platforms often have gently used holiday items at great prices, helping you create a festive atmosphere without stretching your budget.

 

Creating an ambiance with lights and sounds

Nothing captures the spirit of Christmas quite like creating the perfect atmosphere. String lights aren’t just for the tree – drape them around your bed frame, line your bookshelves, or even design a magical twinkling ceiling display. LED candles are a safe and cozy alternative, offering soft lighting that’s ideal for study sessions or relaxing movie nights. For an extra dash of seasonal charm, try using a fireplace app on your laptop or TV to mimic a warm, crackling fire.

Music is another essential element for setting the festive mood. Curate a playlist that blends traditional carols with modern holiday hits, or explore the endless Christmas playlists available on streaming platforms. Just remember to keep the volume low – your neighbours will thank you for your thoughtful consideration.

 

DIY decorations that showcase your personality

Make your space uniquely yours with handmade decorations. Create an advent calendar using envelopes or paper bags, filling them with small treats or encouraging notes for yourself and your roommates. Design a wreath with affordable materials from the dollar store or create unique ornaments using supplies from your art classes.

These projects aren’t just decorative – they’re perfect stress relievers during exam season and great opportunities for bonding with housemates. Plus, handmade creations often become treasured keepsakes that you’ll want to use year after year.

 

Festive study corner essentials

Keep the holiday spirit alive without losing focus on your studies by incorporating festive touches into your workspace. Place a small potted Norfolk Island Pine—perfectly resembling a mini Christmas tree—on your desk, or string fairy lights above your study area for a warm, inviting glow. These simple additions can make late-night study sessions more enjoyable while preserving a productive environment.

To add even more seasonal cheer, try using holiday-themed study materials like festive sticky notes or coloured pens during your revision sessions. Remember, your off-campus housing can be a space that balances both celebration and academic success.

 

Making memories with holiday activities

Turn your living space into a festive hub of holiday fun. Host a cookie decorating party in your kitchen, or plan a Secret Santa exchange with your housemates. These activities not only make your space feel more festive but also help create lasting memories.

You can even start new traditions that fit your student lifestyle. Perhaps it’s a weekly holiday movie night or a special study break featuring hot chocolate and candy canes. These small rituals can make the season even more meaningful.

 

Your festive home at Parkway Lofts

At Parkway Lofts, we understand the importance of creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for students. Our fully furnished student accommodations provide the perfect canvas for your holiday decorating dreams. With spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a supportive community atmosphere, we offer more than just a place to stay – we provide a home where you can create memories.

Ready to experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in student living? Visit us today to explore your new home!

If none of the popular college majors are catching your attention, it may be worth expanding your options. Considering lesser-known college majors may reveal a career path you never even knew existed or help you start thinking about college in a new way.

1. Military Technologies

Play a role in the military (with or without joining yourself) by studying military technologies. This major covers areas such as intelligence gathering, national security, and military operations through strategy, leadership, field training, and computer science. As a broad field, it may appeal to students with various interests. You can expect to enter a career as a military contractor, educator, or engineer, among others.

2. Precision Production

If you enjoy math and using machinery, a precision production major could be for you. You’ll gain technical knowledge that you can apply to installing springs, padding, covering, and finishes as well as woodworking, carpentry, and machinist skills. Plus, you’ll learn how to use a range of tools to create furniture, mattresses, cabinets, and other products.

3. Transportation and Materials Moving

Globalization means transportation of materials is critical for society. By majoring in this field, you’ll learn how to manage operations, logistics, and safety. The career options are diverse — ranging from highway maintenance and rail transportation to air traffic control. If there is a particular area of transportation that especially interests you, consider a more specific major like air transportation or marine transportation.

4. Legal Professions

If studying law appeals but you’re unsure if you want to complete all the education necessary to become a lawyer, consider becoming a legal professions major. This may lead to a career as a lawyer, but it could also pave the way for various other legal careers, including as a police officer, paralegal, mediator, or parole officer.

5. Library Science

If you’ve always felt inspired by librarians, consider studying library science to become one yourself. You’ll learn how to organize and locate information in various formats, including printed text, electronic information, and audiovisual material. Be aware that you’ll most likely need to continue your education to a graduate degree.

6. Communication Technology

If you’re interested in how digitization is changing the world, consider a major in communication technology. You’ll learn how to develop interactive technologies, improve user experiences, and use technology in a variety of applications for communication purposes.

7. Theology and Religion

Expand your knowledge of the world’s religions and how they shape society by majoring in theology and religion. You’ll improve your critical-thinking and communication skills, which will be useful for a variety of careers. In addition to pursuing a career as a religious leader, you’ll be well positioned to become an educator, social worker, or legislator or to continue your education to graduate school.

Choosing a major is important, but you can always change your mind if the classes are not resonating with you. An even bigger decision is finding somewhere to live, as you’ll likely be locked into your choice for at least a semester. For Niagara College student housing, a safe bet is Parkway Lofts. Our luxury student apartments are just a short drive from campus and provide you with fantastic amenities like a fitness centre, study rooms, a common area, and en suite bathrooms with most floor plans. Apply now to join the waitlist.

If you’re not already using LinkedIn, you should be. The platform is a great tool for keeping in touch with the people you meet, starting your job (or internship) search, and finding out about the kind of opportunities you may like to pursue after graduation. Even better, LinkedIn is now using AI. This is improving its job search capabilities, making it easier to apply for jobs, and helping users learn the skills they need to improve their career prospects. In particular, there are a few features to be aware of.

1. Automated Profiles

The first thing you need to do when you sign up for LinkedIn is create a profile. There are a large number of sections on your profile, each of which you’ll need to complete to make you look attractive to employers. A fast way to do this is to use LinkedIn AI to populate the fields based on the content on your resume. All users can take advantage of this feature — you don’t need to have a Premium membership.

2. Conversational Job Searching

When you’re just starting out with your job search, you may be unsure of what keywords to use. This may mean you miss out on jobs that could have been perfect for you just because you didn’t know how to find them. Premium members can now use conversational sentences to describe the kind of position they’re looking for, which should help you receive more relevant results.

3. Job Post Summaries

When LinkedIn presents you with a list of jobs that meet your search requirements, you still need to read through the descriptions (which are often wordy). To speed up the process, LinkedIn allows Premium users to take advantage of generative AI to summarize job posts. This will enable you to quickly assess whether you meet the requirements and whether you’d be interested in applying.

4. Cover Letter Drafts

Reduce the time it takes to apply to a job by using generative AI to draft your cover letters. Although you shouldn’t submit exactly what LinkedIn creates for you, it’s a good starting point. Rewrite the cover letter in your voice and add anything the AI missed. You should find this speeds up the time it takes you to apply for jobs considerably.

5. Resume Feedback

Another thing you need to do for every position you apply for is adapt your resume. Although many of the things you’ll need to change are just small details, this may take up a large amount of your time — and there’s always the risk you’ll make a mistake if you’re applying for several jobs at once. LinkedIn provides support with this for Premium members by offering resume feedback based on the description of the job you’re applying for. The LinkedIn AI assistant will adapt your resume for you, such as by picking particular skills to include or highlighting certain work or volunteering experience.

6. Responses to Career Questions

A great feature of LinkedIn for a while has been LinkedIn Learning. Premium users are now able to chat with AI instructors who are based on real career development experts. Ask these AI instructors any career questions you have to receive an instant response.

Another way to start preparing for life after university is to learn to live independently. For Brock University off-campus housing, look no further than Parkway Lofts. Choose between a studio, two-bedroom, and four-bedroom apartment — all come with quartz countertops in the kitchen, premium finishes, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Join the waitlist for your preferred floor plan.

Many job posts you’ll encounter will require a cover letter to apply for the position. Hiring managers use cover letters to gain a better idea of applicants’ skills, fit for company culture, and degree of interest in landing the job. Crafting the perfect cover letter is a great opportunity to go beyond your resume to show why you’re the ideal candidate for the position. Here are some tips for making a great first impression.

1. Use a Professional Layout

Come across as a professional by using a standard layout for your cover letter. Begin with a header consisting of your name and contact information followed by the date and then the name and address of the person you’re writing to. If you’re unsure how this should look, use a cover letter template and populate the fields with your own details. After the header, use a greeting followed by the main body of the letter and end with a formal sign-off.

2. Address Your Letter to the Appropriate Person

Whenever possible, address your cover letter to the person reviewing the applications. Use “Dear” followed by the person’s first and last name. If you don’t have the person’s name, use “hiring manager” or a similar position title.

3. Mention Your Reason for the Letter

The first paragraph of your letter should explain why you’re writing it. Mention what position you’re applying for and where you saw the job advertised. Briefly explain why you’re interested in the role and why you think you’d be a good fit.

4. Give an Overview of Your Background

Use the second paragraph of your cover letter to provide detail about your background and why this is relevant to the position. Talk about the skills you’ve gained in college, your professional experience (if you haven’t worked in this field yet, this could be volunteering or internships), and anything else that makes you particularly well suited for the job. Try to focus on just a couple key areas rather than listing everything. Plus, use keywords from the job post, as hiring managers may use these to filter the most appropriate applications.

In the third paragraph, choose an experience or achievement you particularly want to draw attention to. Use an anecdote to demonstrate how you possess a skill or what exactly you were able to accomplish for an employer, charitable organization, or student club. Avoid repeating information from your resume — provide new information or go into greater detail.

5. Summarize the Main Message

Tie everything together with a final paragraph. Summarize why you’re the perfect fit for the position and why you’re interested in applying. Close by welcoming the employer to contact you with information about the next steps to continue the application process and thank the hiring manager for his or her time. Sign off with your name and signature.

If you still have some time before you’ll be leaving college for the world of work, make the most of the months that remain. One way to do this is to look for a better apartment. You’ll find the ideal Niagara College student housing at Parkway Lofts. You can have your own studio apartment or a private room in a shared apartment, with the option for an en suite bathroom. Apply now while there are still a few spaces left.

The great thing about TikTok is it gives regular people a platform to share tips based on their own experiences. For instance, many of the users have been in the same situation you’re in now: nearing the end of your time at university and starting to think about your career. These users have some invaluable advice for landing a top summer internship and finding entry-level roles after graduation. A few career tips stand out as the best.

1. Build a Personal Brand

Until recently, people tended to think branding only applied to companies, but Gen Zers are embracing personal branding to stand out from other candidates. Personal branding shows employers who you are and your values to help them see that you’re a good fit for the company culture.

There are various ways to build your personal brand, beginning before you’ve even made contact with employers through developing your online presence. In addition to creating the image you want for yourself on your LinkedIn profile, check what comes up when someone searches for you. Make sure it’s what you want people to see by adding and deleting posts on other social media platforms, building a personal website, or setting up an online portfolio.

Continue your personal branding on your resume, in your cover letters, and in interviews. Make sure you highlight the skills and experience you want employers to know about and talk about how working at the company will help you meet your goals.

2. Never Stop Networking

Start networking before you’re actively looking for jobs and don’t stop even while you’re interviewing for positions. You have plenty of opportunities to network while you’re at university, including through in-person events like job fairs, by developing connections with faculty members, and by reaching out to people online, such as professionals in the field you want to enter.

3. Gain Experience

Employers definitely want candidates who have the right credentials and gained good grades at university, but that alone isn’t enough — they also want someone with relevant experience. Search for opportunities to gain experience while you’re still at university, such as through internships, volunteering, or holding an elected position in a campus organization.

4. Send Your Interviewers Thank-You Notes

After an interview, reach out to express your gratitude. Mention what you learned from the interview, summarize why you’re the right candidate, and make it clear you’re still interested in the role. This will increase the favourable impression the interviewer has of you. Send the message as an email or as a handwritten note — whatever is more appropriate for the type of company.

You may be nearing the end of your time at university, but that’s no reason to not enjoy your last few semesters to the fullest. One way to do this is to improve your housing situation. You’ll find Brock University off-campus housing at Parkway Lofts. In addition to the stylish apartment you’ll have to yourself or will share with roommates, you’ll be able to use the study rooms, fitness center, and commercial-style kitchen. Contact us for a lease to have a great place to live while you finish university and for your summer internship in St. Catharines.

Even though you put in the effort to find the perfect college to attend, you may be itching to spend some time elsewhere. In addition to traveling over your breaks, you may like to consider spending an entire semester abroad. To decide if this is the right option for you, there are a few things you need to consider about studying abroad.

1. Are There Suitable Programs?

If you want to study something quite specific, it’s important to find out whether there are programs available and if they look interesting. In addition to reading the program descriptions, research the school itself to find out about its reputation, the quality of the teaching, the additional services on offer, and accommodation available to international students. Do this by reading reviews and reaching out to other students who have studied there, including exchange students.

2. Can You Study in a Country That Interests You?

Once you’ve researched some potential programs, it’s important to consider whether you’d be interested in living in the countries where they’re based. Spend time researching what it would be like — everything from the weather and food to the values of the people who live there. You should also consider what individual cities are like. Are there interesting places to visit during your free time?

3. Will Studying Abroad Help You Meet Your Goals?

There should be a specific reason why you want to study abroad. For instance, you may want to experience a new culture or teaching style, meet new people, practice your language skills, learn more about yourself, or gain valuable experience that is only possible abroad. Think about your motivations for seeking a program abroad and assess whether these bring you closer to meeting your larger goals.

4. Can You Afford to Study Abroad?

Studying abroad is often expensive, particularly as it may not be possible to work while you’re in another country under a student visa. Make sure you consider the cost of your flight, accommodation, and living expenses. If you’re unable to afford the program right now, consider whether it would be possible to go later during your time at college when you’ve had the chance to save up more money. Alternatively, a destination other than your top choice may be more affordable.

5. Do You Have Commitments Keeping You at Home?

Many students would love to study abroad but are unable to drop the commitments they have for an entire semester. Think about whether there are compromises you can make, such as staying in touch with people back home virtually, taking a break from your extracurriculars, or even quitting your part-time job. This may be worthwhile for the unique experience you’ll gain from studying abroad.

If you do decide to study abroad, it’s a good idea to have housing lined up for when you return to college back home. You’ll find Niagara College student housing at Parkway Lofts. You’ll have a variety of floor plans to choose from, ranging from studio apartments to four-bedroom suites. All our apartments have luxury amenities, including quartz countertops in the kitchens, premium finishes, and complimentary WiFi. Book a tour to check out the housing before you leave to study abroad.

Summer is a great time to recover from the hard work of the previous semester and catch up with your hometown friends. However, it’s also worth using the long months you have productively. There are plenty of small activities you can add to your summer schedule that will help you feel productive — while still meaning you have fun.

1. Set a Health Goal for the Summer

Choose at least one aspect of your physical or mental health you’d like to improve over the summer. Then, set a goal and decide what steps you’ll take to meet it. For instance, you may like to improve your diet, stick to a workout routine, journal a certain number of days each week, or incorporate mindfulness activities into your day.

2. Read Outside

Spend more time outdoors while being productive by taking your books with you on a trip to the lake, beach, or park. Set a goal for how many books you’ll read over the summer. Don’t feel like everything you read needs to relate to your major — reading fiction is a great way to expand your mind, improve your imagination, and develop empathy.

3. Search for a Mentor

Summer is the perfect time to search for someone who can provide you with advice to help you reach your goals after you graduate. Reach out to people in your faculty, alumni, or professionals in your community to ask about opportunities to receive mentoring.

Alternatively, if you have no one in mind you could ask, sign up for a mentoring program that matches students with people in the field they want to enter.

4. Consider Your Personal Branding

After you graduate, you’ll be using personal branding to show potential employers that you’re the ideal candidate. The summer is a great time for reflecting on how you want to present yourself. Consider the message you want to portray (about your skills, values, and what makes you unique) and find ways to apply it to your resume, LinkedIn profile, and online portfolio or website.

5. Prepare for Next Semester

Make sure you start next semester feeling fully prepared. Dedicate some time over the summer to organizing your files, decluttering, and reviewing any notes from classes that are prerequisites to the classes you’ll be taking in the upcoming semester.

6. Make Time for Hobbies

Hobbies allow you to be productive while participating in the activities you enjoy the most. Schedule time over the summer to work on a personal project, improve your skills, or even learn something new.

7. Search for a Volunteer Program

Volunteering will give structure to your days over the summer, help you gain valuable experience to put on your resume, and allow you to make a difference to a cause that matters to you. Find out if there are any programs in your community that you could join.

8. Find Time to Relax

Remember, you don’t need to be productive for the entire summer — it’s just as important to relax and recover. This will help you avoid academic burnout next semester. Give yourself permission to spend time doing nothing in particular. You’ll reap the benefits when you return to university in the fall with a clear mind.

One more way to use your summer break is to look for student rentals. St. Catharines has the perfect housing at Parkway Lofts. Upgrade your student living experience by moving into our luxury apartments. You’ll find it easier to study, relax, and socialize thanks to amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, study rooms, and a common area lounge. Contact us to secure a lease on your preferred floor plan.

A great professor will have a lasting impact on your time at university, perhaps even the rest of your life. However, many professors may never know how important they’ve been to their students. You can change this by thanking your favourite professor through a formal email that expresses your gratitude — here’s how.

1. Sum Up Your Thoughts in a Short Subject Line

Make sure your professor knows what the email is about by including a relevant subject line. Professors are busy people — knowing what an email contains helps them decide when to read it.

2. Address Your Professor Correctly

Find out what title your professor prefers. If the professor has a doctoral degree, this is likely “Professor” or “Doctor.” Otherwise, it will likely be “Mr.” or “Ms.” However, you may be on a first-name basis with your professor if you’ve developed a close relationship.

3. Write a Personalized Message

Make it clear exactly what you’re thankful for, whether that’s guidance, mentorship, or a particular opportunity your professor provided you with. Avoid writing a generic message — instead, include specific examples of how the professor has supported you. This will show that you’re genuine about your appreciation.

4. Talk About the Future

You may also like to talk about how the support you received from your professor has influenced your future career path or further studies. If your professor could be a useful contact, you may like to express a desire to stay in touch.

5. Be Brief

The last thing you want is for your thank-you email to take up an unreasonable amount of your professor’s time. Instead of going into a lot of detail, stick to the key facts to be as concise as possible. A maximum of six short paragraphs is ideal.

6. Sign Off Appropriately

End with the professional closing phrase of your choice. Options range from the standard “Sincerely” or “Kind regards” to those that continue expressing thanks, such as “With appreciation” or “Yours in gratitude.”

7. Proofread Before Sending

Just like you proofread papers and other assignments before you submit them, you should proofread your thank-you email. In fact, it’s a good habit to proofread anything you write before sending it, no matter how. Since you put a lot of effort into writing the perfect thank-you email, it’s important to check it to ensure it expresses your thoughts as you wanted and has no errors that may look unprofessional or may lead to a misunderstanding.

Great professors are just one factor that makes your time at university special. Another is your student housing. Improve your Brock off-campus living experience by moving into Parkway Lofts. In addition to a stylish apartment, you’ll be within walking distance of campus and have access to great amenities, including a fitness centre, common area lounge, and multipurpose room. In addition to our shared suites, we have one-bedroom studios, meaning you can choose whatever suits your budget and lifestyle. All our apartments come with a luxury bathroom just for you or shared with one roommate. Book a tour to see our student housing for yourself.