Make the Most of September: SAMRU’s Guide to Starting Strong

Let’s be real – September hits different when you’re a university student. One minute you’re living your best summer life, the next you’re trying to remember which building your 8:30 AM class is in while juggling three group chats about textbook swaps.

But here’s what successful students know: these first four weeks aren’t just about finding your classes and surviving on caffeine.

When friend groups form, routines stick, and you figure out how to actually enjoy university instead of just enduring it. The connections you make and habits you build now? They’ll carry you through to April.

That’s why SAMRU has strategically packed September with opportunities to help you thrive. Whether you’re reconnecting with last year’s crew or starting fresh, we’ve designed these events to fit into your life, not overwhelm it. Because the students who love their university experience aren’t the ones who only hit the books—they’re the ones who master the balance.

Event Highlights

From the Campus Carnival to the Wycked House Party, September at MRU is packed with several events to help you make the most of the upcoming school year.

Mark your calendars – these are just a few of standout events that will be taking place.

Week 1: Campus Carnival – Your Launchpad
Campus Carnival calendar graphic
We’re starting the school year off strong with an event you won’t want to miss! Whether you’re a new or returning student, this is a great way to make new friends, discover your community, and have some fun.

Everyone’s in the same boat – looking for their people. Grab some free BBQ, play a few games, and start those ‘hey, aren’t you in my stats class?’ conversations that turn into study groups by October.

When: Sept. 4, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Where: East Gate Lawn

Week 2: SAMRU Open House – Find Your Spaces
Open House calendar graphic
Come on down to the SAMRU Open House! This is a great chance for students to explore the Wyckham House and discover all the services and offerings available to them.

By week two, you’re ready to explore beyond your classroom routine. Discover study spots (check out the Wyckham House second floor lounges), club offices, and services you’ll actually use. Plus, there are activities throughout Wyckham House with chances to win prizes. Smart students scout their resources early

When: Sept. 11, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm

Where: Wyckham House

Week 3: Free Stuff Day – Stock Up & Connect
Free Stuff Day calendar graphic
For the fourth straight year businesses will be returning to MRU for Free Stuff Day. Free Stuff Day as seen great growth since it’s inception with double the businesses participating last year since the first year.

Local businesses bring the goods – practical stuff like school supplies, snacks, and coupons that actually help your budget. We’ll have tote bags while supplies last. Pro tip: This is also prime time to solidify those week-one connections.

When: Sept. 16, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm

Where: Wyckham house

Week 4: The Wycked House Party – Celebrate Your New Rhythm
The Wycked House Party is the ultimate back to school party! This is your chance to meet new people, build connections, and get comfortable in your new surroundings. With great music and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to kick off the new school year.

The event that marks your official arrival at MRU. By now, you’ve found your rhythm – time to celebrate with the epic party that everyone’s still talking about in December. All ages, licensed bar for 18+, and the night where acquaintances become your actual crew

When: Sept. 25, 8:00 pm to 1:00 am

Where: Wyckham House and West Gate Social

One of the best parts about putting these events on year in and year out for the students is seeing the positive impacts they have.

We’ve seen that year-over-year students who engage in these first four weeks report higher satisfaction with university life.

The connections you make with your peers early in the semester can quickly turn into a valuable support system. These connections mean study buddies when midterms hit and having a crew by your side can make all the difference.

Still seeking out more events? We got you covered! Throughout September, we’ll be putting on a wide range of events that will be recurring throughout the school year. 

Head over to our website’s calendar to check out the rest of the events taking place in September, and make sure to continually check the calendar, as we’ll be constantly adding events over the next eight months.

The habits you set now. Whether it’s hitting an event or just saying hi to the person next to you, these things will shape your entire year. The connections you make in these first few weeks will become your support system, your study buddies, and your crew for all the adventures ahead.

Insights from your Representation Executive Council (REC)

Back-to-school season can bring a mix of emotions, and it’s completely normal to feel a bit of everything from excitement, nerves, and even anxiety as your routine shifts.

Anita Surujbally, SAMRU’s REC Vice President of Student Affairs, knows this feeling well. Now in her third year as a journalism and digital media student, she remembers her first year at MRU and the “growing pains” that came with it.

Her advice for all students, new and returning, is simple: “explore the services offered by MRU and the Students’ Association. Knowing what’s available can make your university journey smoother and more rewarding.”

During her term, Anita is focused on strengthening mental health services for students. For a full list of student services, including health and wellness supports, visit the SAMRU website and look for the “What We Do For You” tab.

“My advice is to explore the services offered by MRU and the Students’ Association,” Surujbally said. “Knowing what’s available can make your university journey smoother and more rewarding.” 

For Anita’s upcoming term as SAMRU REC VP Student Affairs she will be working diligently to protect student rights, drive positive change on campus, and strengthen the mental health services for her fellow students.

SAMRU also has additional resources on our website and in all classrooms with both on- and off-campus resources available to you.

Your Four-Week Success Strategy

With summer wrapping up, students have a chance to start fresh, and kick off the school year on the right foot.

Back-to-school is more than picking up supplies and registering for classes. It can also serve as a great way to build a new schedule, form positive habits and create a new routine that can set the tone for the following months.

SAMRU has you covered with a four week plan to help students make the most of the new academic year.

Weeks 1-2: Discovery Mode 

  • Hit the major events, say yes to invites, explore campus. Your future self will thank you for being open these first two weeks.

Weeks 3-4: Find Your Groove 

  • Lock in your study spots, join that club, establish your coffee crew. This is when random connections become real friendships. Own your routine.

Plus the Essentials:

Welcome Back

Here’s the truth: Your September shapes your entire year. These aren’t just random events – they’re strategically timed opportunities to build the connections and patterns that make university amazing instead of just survivable.

The most successful students aren’t grinding 24/7. They’re the ones who show up – for classes AND for the moments that make university more than just a degree. They know that a Tuesday study session is so much better when it’s with friends you made at Campus Carnival.

Save this guide, share it with your group chat, and remember: you’ve got four weeks to set the tone for an incredible year. Make them count. Questions? Drop by the Student Centre or email info@samru.ca. We’re here to help you build a university experience worth remembering.