Finding your place at Corpus Christi College: Why community matters

Feb 5, 2025

By Juliana, 1st-year Corpus Christi College student

The laughter was contagious. As I stepped into the 2024 Halloween party during my first semester at Corpus Christi College, I couldn’t help but notice the buzz in the room. Students were laughing over pumpkin carving contests, huddling over plates of snacks and pulling friends into dance-offs. Some were dressed as vampires, others as superheroes, but one thing united everyone: an overwhelming sense of belonging.

Later, a friend visiting from UBC leaned over and whispered, “How does everyone here seem just to fit in so easily? You guys are only a month in, and everyone seems so close!”

That moment reminded me of why I chose Corpus in the first place. It’s not just about the education (though that’s stellar); it’s about the people. At Corpus, the small and tight-knit community has made finding my niche and building meaningful connections so much easier.

Events bring everyone together

Corpus isn’t just about academics. Events like the Halloween party, cultural celebrations for Lunar New Year and Diwali, and casual get-togethers like “Jackbox Games” during lunch and coffee and tea treats before classes create opportunities to meet people and build connections.

During my first week on campus, I was nervous about fitting in. Then, I made friends instantly thanks to welcome events, small classes, and the fact that almost every student congregates in the school’s foyer, known as “Plato’s Cave.” As someone who is naturally shy and introverted, I was shocked at how quickly I was able to make friends and even start hanging out with them outside of school and on the weekends. By the end of my first semester, strangers I had known for only a week or less became very close friends.

A fellow student and close friend, Jarod, sums it up the best:

“When you choose a post-secondary, you want to feel a part of something and, if you even put in a minute amount of effort, this small college will feel like home, and your peers will feel like family.”

Finding your niche

Every student comes to Corpus with a unique story and interests, and there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for fitting in. But that’s the beauty of this college. Whether you’re into debating, volunteering or starting your own club, there’s room for you to thrive.

Another friend, Rebecca, says, “I’ve really found that beginning at Corpus has given me a significant number of opportunities and successes I wouldn’t have gotten at a bigger university. I am frequently given opportunities to help out in our community and also receive regular support directly from professors to excel in my courses.”

For me, volunteering with other students at the Door is Open has taught me my love of helping others and doing service. In my first-year leadership class (LDR 100) with Gabriel Pillay, I was able to restart the theological Newman Club with two friends and have it approved as an official club for the first time at Corpus. This has been so fulfilling and has allowed me to focus on my passion for helping university students navigate their faith in post-secondary.

Both these experiences and many more—especially those I’ve had as a Circle of Fellowship recipient—have introduced me to people who share my passions for service, growth and leadership-building.

Why community matters

University life can feel overwhelming at times. Balancing coursework, part-time jobs, student internships, and personal responsibilities is no small feat.

Jackie shares, “I’ve found that since Corpus is a small and loving community, it was really easy to make friends because everyone was willing to have a conversation with you and get to know you.”

Having a community that supports you, cheers you on and reminds you to have fun along the way can make all the difference, and I have no doubt found that here.

At Corpus, it’s not just about finding a study buddy (though that’s helpful). It’s about knowing there are people who genuinely care about your success and happiness. From professors who check in when you’re struggling to classmates who save you a seat in the library, this sense of community is what sets Corpus Christi College apart.