More than a third of the students at Acadia University, located in the Annapolis Valley, live on campus, which translates to less time commuting and more time for school work and social activities. A student-run farm—the cornerstone of the school’s sustainable food program—supplies organic produce to the dining hall as well as local food security programs. Environmental and sustainability studies are a strong focus at Acadia: many of its research spaces have been modernized, and students can study birds on the university’s private island wildlife reserve. Undergrads also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on research, whether that’s conducting studies in a lab, working in the field, or investigating in the library or archives.

All first-year biology students learn about traditional Mi’kmaw plants, thanks to a former student who started the lab to increase Indigenous representation in the course. “The world needs more critical thinkers, problem solvers, creators, leaders, and communicators. The personalized liberal arts education provided by Acadia is vital and increasingly rare, and it is upon us to work together to deliver the Acadia promise to our students so they can be prepared to confront the challenges of an increasingly complex world,” says president Jeff Hennessy.

Students in many programs have the opportunity to gain professional experience through co-op placements, and more than 90 per cent of co-op students landed work terms in 2023. Students can access staff, alum and community members through the Acadia Café, an online networking program. Another great opportunity: students can volunteer in the Sensory Motor Instructional and Leadership Experience (SMILE) program, which helps youth with disabilities participate in physical activities. At the end of the day, students can cheer on one of the school’s 11 varsity sports teams.

Campus Buzz

Students can look forward to new meal options as the dining hall is slated to undergo renovations this year.