Finding home on campus
Rei Shibue shares his residence experience for new incoming students
Arriving in Canada for the first time is a scary feeling for many international students, including St John’s resident Rei Shibue.
The Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources student studying for his master’s in microbiology felt isolated when he arrived in Canada. He did not know what to expect but was excited to get started.
“When I first arrived in Canada, I felt alone. I didn’t have any friends or know where to go on campus; I was just trying to figure out my way.”
Since arriving in Canada in September 2023, Rei Shibue has stayed in St John’s residence, where he’s been able to be close to his classes and build friendships that have helped him find his home away from home.
“For the first while in the residence, I kept to myself. I didn’t talk much, ate alone in the dining room, and attended classes. Over the last year, though, that’s changed significantly.”
As Rei continues his studies in microbiology, where he is investigating microbes in the Arctic Ocean, he also finds his community in St John’s residence at monthly events and has become a residence don on the student support team.
“Attending events and getting involved in the residence has helped me meet some of my closest friends.”
“It’s the community I needed outside of class to feel like I’m home.”
Looking to make a difference in the residence, Rei knew he wanted to get involved on the dons team to help students navigate the problems he once faced when coming to Canada.
“Being a don allows me to continue building relationships in the residence while giving back to the community and the students here.”
As the dons prepare to welcome more new students into the residence in Winter 2025, Rei has found being a resident to be rewarding and fulfilling in more ways than he could imagine.
“I’m grateful to be a part of this team and community, which has given me so much.”
To learn more about St John’s residence, visit our website.
To submit your application for Winter 2025 accommodations, contact our Dean of Residence.