Governing Western University: Freshman Year

By Mahima Patel

Among the numerous stigmatizations Western University has, such as being the school of mass partying and questionable educational motives, there is so much buried about the school’s academic track record and reputation that meets the eye. After spending almost a full year attached to this university, it is evident that Western academic leaders provide their students with endless opportunities for in-depth exploration and collaboration. These professional development opportunities allow students to individualize their experiences and to create a graduate experience that best meets their needs and aspirations. Not only does Western boast a beautiful student body, it also has a stunning campus. Any season or time of the year, the campus is breathtaking, from the building’s old limestone and ivy-covered buildings to the open and well-maintained green spaces that all staff preserve to keep the university beautiful.

Aside from the amazing architecture that makes it home for over 28,386 students, Western is ranked number 211 according to QS World University Rankings 2020 and makes it to the list of the top ten best universities in Canada. The QS World University Rankings 2020 features 1,000 of the most prestigious universities in the world, ranked based on a methodology which assesses each institution on six metrics, including its reputation amongst academics and employers. Similarly, through an international lens, Western University is ranked among the top 1% of higher education institutions with an acceptance rate of 58%. Although this may seem intimidating from the perspective of a high school applicant, these percentages do vary depending on the program. With more than 400 combinations of undergraduate majors, minors, and specializations, though the educational institution of higher learning holds the highest national entrance averages of first-year students at 90.6% and this comes to no surprise as it offers a healthy number of electives, is flexible with admission acceptance deadlines and ensure that students feel academically both motivated and challenged which makes it the right choice for both domestic and international students.

Overall, for local students, although the location may seem far and like a lengthy commute from the GTA compared to more local schools in the city, the distance allows many freshmen much like myself to move out and learn how to be independent as well make friends that make governing the city of London itself and campus more effortless. From residence to off-campus housing, there is little to lose in accessibility and affordability, which accordingly can make attending Western University the best investment one could ever make towards their future.