The TRU Journey of Ishan

University life is not only about classes and exams. For international students like Ishan, a Post-Baccalaureate Human Resources student from India, coming to TRU meant starting a new life. Now in his second semester, Ishan shows us how trying new things helped him feel more confident and make friends.

When Ishan first came to Kamloops, he felt lonely. He did not know the culture, and everything was new to him. But then, Ishan decided to join activities on campus. He became a member of the TRU Student Caucus. This helped him speak for other students and meet many new people. He also learned to be a leader and felt more at home.

Ishan’s story teaches us that university life is more than studying. He believes that students should join clubs, go to events, and try new experiences. Even small steps can help you feel better and make friends.

Every student has a different TRU journey. Ishan reminds us that we are not alone. There are many chances to connect with others at TRU. All you need to do is look around and take the first step.

What is one thing you have done to feel more connected at TRU?

Share your story in the comments.

Eating without thinking the real consequences

Jil is a 28-year-old student in his last semester of university. For several years, he has preferred to order food at home rather than cook it himself. And he only eats once a day because he thinks this saves money. Apart from that, he always spends his time drinking soda.

Until one day, while he was taking an exam, he fainted. At that moment, he realized that he had to take care of his health and start eating more to have more energy. But he went to extremes where he ate too much and started to gain a lot of weight. The disconformity he had with his body was awful, and he no longer knew who to turn to. After several months, he decided to see a nutritionist to start taking his health more seriously.

The doctor suggested some ideas he could follow to improve their health. The first thing would be to find two days during the week to cook and for a while only drink water. The next step was to implement a lot more movement, so the doctor advised him to walk. And if he had a craving to eat junk food he could do it at least twice a month.

After six months, Jil began to notice several changes in his health as he had much more energy than before and was more active. The conclusion that Jil came to was that he was able to ask for help in time and searched for a health expert.

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Welcome to beyond the books, a page dedicated to exploring the multifaceted challenges faced by students. We are a group of students learning the ups and downs of student life and creating a place where everyone feels heard. This page creates a safe space to find your community at TRU. As navigating school life becomes more complex than ever with pressures from different aspects of life, ranging from academic performance, financial obligation, managing mental health and a social life. Without an outlet for students’ voices to be heard, it may feel as though they are going through it alone. This website aims to be the voice of the students navigating university, speaking on their behalf addressing the challenges they face as well as sharing all the things you can do beyond the books!