How did you religious beliefs change during university?
Similar to previous years, most students were never religious, with those who were maintaining their religious beliefs. There are a small portion of students who have either become religious or have lost faith.
"Changed Religions" was also an option not selected by any respondents this time.
How frequently did you cook for yourself?
Yes chef! Most students ended up cooking for themselves weekly with only a small portion of students either cooking monthly or bi-weekly. Cooking can be a challenge for many students moving out for the first time who have not cooked for themselves before, but it's never too late to learn!
How many days a week were you physically active?
Staying active is important for your health, and Waterloo CS students are definitely not beating the sweaty stereotypes this year with how often they went to the gym. Most of the students went to the gym 3-6 days of the week with only a handful going 0-2 times a week or 7 days a week.
Did you feel like you had time to pursue your hobbies?
Most students felt like they had time to pursue their hobbies with 66% agreeing or strongly agreeing, while 27% said they disagreed or strongly disagreed. Hobbies are a great way to de-stress and take a break from school, and committments outside of school are also a great way to network or add to your portfolio and resume.
How often did you attend parties?
Parties are a great way to unwind, connect with new people, and enjoy a night of fun. While a third of students reported never attending parties, the majority participate when the time feels right. Regardless of how often you choose to join the festivities, always remember to stay safe and plan your way home!
What time did you usually sleep?
This year's Waterloo students continue to lean toward a night owl lifestyle, with the largest group calling it a night between 11 PM and 1 AM. Who needs early mornings when the night offers so much inspiration?
How many hours of sleep did you get on average per night?
Sleep is crucial for both body and mind, and it looks like Waterloo students know that! While many students aim for 7+ hours of sleep each night, it's clear that the majority prefer late nights over early mornings. With most heading to bed between 11 PM and 3 AM, it's no surprise that morning classes aren't at the top of their wish list.
How often did you pull all-nighters throughout university?
For the lucky few who have avoided it, consider yourselves fortunate. For the rest, late nights often mean battling exhaustion with cold water, energy drinks, or an extra strong coffee. While a quarter of respondents have yet to pull an all-nighter, most students find themselves going through the grind every few weeks or months. It's a test of endurance, but for many, it's just part of the student experience.
While on campus, how many days of the week did you go out to eat at a restaurant?
Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or something a bit more upscale, Waterloo offers a diverse range of dining options to satisfy every craving. Students typically head out to eat, making the most of iconic spots like Lazeez, which has remained a favourite for years, as well as the new eateries that pop up each term.
What is your favourite restaurant to go to on/around campus?
While we had a wide range of responses, it's clear that Gol's and Yunshang are the favourites of this year's students. Lazeez, Nuri Village, and Waterloo Star were also popular options.
Which extracurricular activities did you participate in?
Beating all the "nerd" allegations, a majority of Waterloo students stay active by participating in sports or intramurals, with basketball and badminton emerging as favorites. Beyond the courts, many students also take on leadership roles, serving as Math Ambassadors or Orientation Leaders, helping to guide and inspire the next generation of students. It's clear that being active — whether in sports or campus involvement — is a big part of the Waterloo experience!
Where is your favourite place to study on campus?
MC and DC are clearly the go-to spots for students looking to study on campus, and it's no surprise considering most Math faculty classes are held in these iconic buildings. However, don't limit yourself to just these spots — explore different areas of campus to uncover your new favorite study nook. You never know where you'll find the perfect environment to focus and get things done!
What are your hobbies?
Waterloo students have a wide range of hobbies, but badminton, gaming, going to the gym, and reading are definitely at the top! These activities offer a perfect escape, making the grind of university life just a bit more enjoyable.
How many different countries did you visit outside of Canada during university?
Waterloo students are avid travellers! During breaks between terms, many take the opportunity to explore new countries and immerse themselves in different cultures—an experience that leaves a lasting impression. In fact, most Waterloo students have visited at least one country outside of Canada during their time here, expanding their horizons and making unforgettable memories along the way.
What is your favourite bubble tea restaurant in or around UW?
NowTea and CoCo are the go-to spots for bubble tea lovers around Waterloo. With their wide variety of drinks and flavors, it's no wonder these places are favorites for many. What's your drink of choice when you stop by?
What is your favourite shawarma restaurant in or around UW?
Changing up the rankings from last year, coming in first place is Lazeez, with Shawarma Plus following closely in second, and iPotato rounding out the top three. It's safe to say that these spots have earned their place as the all-time favorites of Waterloo students, offering delicious shawarma that keeps everyone coming back year after year.
How often do you spend time on the r/uwaterloo subreddit?
If you ever have a question or want to connect with fellow students, the r/uwaterloo subreddit is the perfect place! Many students browse the subreddit daily or a few times a week, whether they're seeking advice on co-op opportunities, looking for a good bird course, or trying to unwind from their studies. Whatever you need, the UW subreddit is the go-to community for answers and connections!
How often do you keep in touch with high school friends?
For students who are far from home, staying connected with high school friends can be a challenge. Despite the distance, many Waterloo students make the effort to stay in touch, often reaching out and catching up with their old friends to maintain those important relationships.
Where did you meet most of your friends?
While orientation offers a great starting point for meeting people, most students have built lasting friendships from high school, or have built them through mutual connections and classes. University isn't just about hitting the books — it's also about connecting with others. The lessons learned may be forgotten over time, but the friendships forged here will stay with you long after graduation.