University & Studies:
So my experience was that you can get good grades really easily (compared to German universities) if you try hard. The courses are mostly held in small groups, my largest course was with 30 people (marketing management). The professionals are really friendly, especially to German exchange students!
I stayed at the Vanier B House. This is the small dormitory in the middle of the two high-rise dormitories. Ok, I’ve seen nicer things, but it’s definitely worth the experience. I had a Canadian roommate (yes, we had to sleep in one room!) And I’m actually happy about that, because it also allows you to make contact with locals quickly and get into English quickly, which is of course a great thing.
We also had fire alarms 2 or 3 times, a couple of times at night, but well, you have to go through there. You can laugh about it afterwards. (Of course, in most cases it was just some stupid joke and nothing serious.) That was the advantage that I lived in the 3-story building. The others, who first had to go down 22 floors and then up again, and that also at night, were of course not so enthusiastic about the whole thing.
So if you are not “stuffy” and can do without certain things like your own bathroom and room for the few months, you will definitely be able to get by in the dormitory. (I also have to say that it didn’t bother me if someone on the floor was a little louder sometimes. That happens on some floors! That’s the way being a student!
Eat:
Yes, unfortunately I can only confirm the rumor that you are gaining weight !!!
So I had a meal plan and had to eat more or less in the cafeteria there. That was well, sometimes there was even something healthy! But I have to say that it also depends on whether you can resist the temptation to “burger” or not. Those who can do this don’t need to be afraid! And for those who cannot do that, all is not lost for them! There is a fitness studio on campus that can be used free of charge. The offer is really good there. So if you’re not too lazy, you can keep in good shape! I can also confirm that!
Nightlife:
According to top-medical-schools, Halifax may not be the biggest city, but it does have a lot to offer, from a huge number of pubs to a few really good clubs! The prices for alcohol and other fun things are a little higher compared to Germany. (Beer costs between 5 and 6 CAD roughly) But almost every day there are specials somewhere where you can really save money and have a lot of fun. (Incidentally, even when eating!)
Miscellaneous:
During the holidays you can fly cheaply to Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa and other cities in the area. Or go by rental car or by bus or train. So there are always opportunities to see something of the area.
If you are over 25 years old, you get lower prices with car rental (insurance-related). And that’s really not expensive. We rented the car a few times and then drove out. There is a lot to see in Nova Scotia, but your guide can certainly advise you better!
Conclusion:
I would go back to Halifax and the SMU anytime soon!
I was in winter, yes it was cold, but I still had a lot of fun. (You can go skiing without any problems, the people from the International Center organize really cool trips, so definitely go with them!)
You get to know a lot of interesting people from all over the world incredibly quickly, with whom you can spend a great time.
So to everyone who is leaving soon: I wish you all a good time, you will definitely have a lot of fun and come home with good grades!
