<p>Hi everyone! I'm an international student and I live in the Middle East. I got into the University of McGill and I'm really excited to go there next year (hopefully!) The thing is, though, I've never been to Canada before. I applied for bio/biomed/life sci and I got accepted, but I also have other interests and hobbies like writing and singing and I guess I wanted to get an idea on activites at the university and the student clubs and organisations there. </p>
<p>Can you tell me about the city of Montreal too? I'd appreciate as much information as you can provide even if it's only generally about the university or the city. </p>
<p>I'm also really nervous about starting my freshman year of college abroad in a country which is like in another far-off continent! Any advice on what to do to adapt and what to expect?</p>
<p>Well, I don't go to the university (yet), but I did just go to visit. First of all, Montreal is a really cool city. It feels very European. There are amazing restaurants, great shopping, a strong arts community, and lots of history. Also, everyone seems to be dressed really well. The main language is French, as you probably already know, but you can certainly get by on just speaking English, especially around the McGill area. McGill has a downtown campus, which people feel differently about. The tour guide I had said she absolutely loved it. You can walk to great restaurants, shops, and there's a great nightlife nearby. You're not dependent on any kind of shuttle. However, I met with another student who didn't like it. She said she expected university to have a lot more of a community feel- students all hang out at one bar, go to footballs games on a certain night. So, it all depends on what you expect. Personally, I love the idea of a downtown campus. I guess the last drawback of McGill would be the cold. It gets pretty darn cold in the winter.</p>
<p>Honestly, I wasn't even seriously considering McGill until recently because I didn't think I would be accepted! Needless to say, it was a wonderful surprise! I hope to visit sometime before May 1st! Ah!</p>
<p>Exactly HOW cold does it get in McGill? Like Blizzards frequently? Are there any skybridge or tunnel type things to connect the buildings? I don't speak French, will this be a huge problem? I've heard as long as I'm in the city pretty much everyone speaks English...</p>