Student life is often associated with something special, vibrant, and exciting. There are stereotypes and expectations that don’t always match reality. How do students in Ottawa study and unwind? How do they have fun? Are the expectations created by popular movies actually true?
Ottawa One explores the vibrant, unforgettable student life in Canada’s capital.
A Student’s Story: Expectations vs. Reality
- Living independently is easy? In reality, freedom comes at a cost, and responsibilities only grow.
- Living with a roommate is a lottery. They can become your best friend or your worst nightmare.
- Moving out from your parents’ home sounds fun, but the costs can be shocking.
- Excelling in high school doesn’t guarantee the same in university. The first year is the hardest, filled with colour-coded notes and late nights in the library with coffee.
- Parties are an experience on their own. Attending university in Ottawa means being part of big events like the Panda Game—but be prepared, you might leave the event without your shoes.
- Ottawa’s nightlife is lively and diverse, filled with bars and dance floors, but you’ll need to plan for the morning after.
- Fashion and appearance change over time. Freshmen often dress to impress, but by the second or third year, sweatpants, no makeup, and a ponytail become the standard student look.
Affordable and Delicious Student Food in Ottawa
Budget-friendly food is a major concern for students. University of Ottawa students recommend:
- Best cheap meal: Première Moisson.
- Affordable pizza: Score Pizza Rideau.
- Want to splurge after getting your student loan? Riviera is a top choice.
- Favourite student meal: Poutine—Quebec’s signature fast food dish made of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
The Learning Crossroads building is a popular student hub, offering spacious study areas and a great food court.
Top 5 Insider Questions & Answers
- Best library for quiet study? Most students recommend Learning Crossroads, where you can even take a nap. But for serious studying, the Law Library is the go-to spot.
- Most popular student events? International Week, Black History Month, and Arab Gala are major highlights.
- Best place for student housing? Sandy Hill—a neighbourhood surrounding the University of Ottawa. It has unique shops, affordable cafes, and is close to ByWard Market, the Rideau River, and Rideau Canal.
- Best place for live music? Café Nostalgica is a student favourite.
- What’s the best part of Winterlude for students? Free BeaverTails and hot chocolate. Just line up before 11 AM, or if you don’t want to wait, hit a snowball target to win your treats.
Campus Tour at the University of Ottawa
The university offers 90-minute in-person campus tours led by student ambassadors. They guide prospective students through lecture halls, residences, sports facilities, and creative spaces. You can register for a tour on the official University of Ottawa website.
Students can also book a virtual session with a student ambassador or take a self-guided virtual tour at their own pace.
Opportunities for Students
Here are some unique opportunities available to students at the University of Ottawa:
- One of the best French immersion programs in the world. Ottawa is bilingual, making it the perfect place to enhance your French skills.
- Co-op and internship programs. Students can gain hands-on experience and improve their resumes with the help of the Career Development Centre.
- Over 200 student clubs, including social justice, arts, and cultural organizations. There’s something for everyone.
- Musicals and art exhibitions organized by students. Whether you want to participate or just attend, there’s always something happening.
Across the street from the University of Ottawa, you’ll find the Ottawa Art Gallery with modern art exhibits, as well as the historic ByTowne Cinema, operating since the 1940s. Lansdowne, major sports stadiums, and high-end restaurants also make Ottawa an exciting place to live and study.
University Life: Studying and Having Fun in Ottawa
University isn’t about fighting for survival or competing for your place under the sun. The first year might be tough, but it gets easier. These are the student years that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Speaking with students at the University of Ottawa, it’s clear that they love their city. While Ottawa may not be as large or glamorous as Toronto or Vancouver, it has a unique soul. Its blend of historic and modern architecture, its diverse and welcoming atmosphere, and its high-quality education and entertainment options make it a hidden gem.
Ottawa’s students have every opportunity to study well and enjoy life to the fullest.