The Brown Family House of Learning: Gems You Need to Discover

The Brown Family House of Learning: Gems You Need to Discover  

The Brown Family House of learning, also known as HOL, is a place that every TRU student needs to explore. You’ll find your own hidden gems, but these are a few of my favourite parts of this four-story building. While people tend to know that HOL has a Tim Hortons and the library within its walls, there are other features you won’t want to miss.  

The Quiet Study Pods and The Library  

Image of study pods on the fourth floor of HOL taken from above.

HOL has new study pods that were created to isolate you from the person next to you. You cannot see what they are doing, nor can they see what you are doing. Therefore, everyone is minding their own business, focusing on their studies. These pods also have an outlet where you can charge your laptop or phone – fully charged devices mean you can stay for a longer time if needed! The quiet study pods are located on the third and fourth floors of HOL. On the third floor you will also find the library, your go-to place to find resources to help with any research journey. Here is a small tip: if you need help with your research, you can always book an appointment with your library advisor, who is there to assist with questions and concerns.  

The Makerspace 

Image of two people working in the Makerspace podcast studio.

I call this place the “wow place” because there are so many different technologies for learning and experimenting. For instance, you can make a button with a design you’ve created. There is also a podcast room, with a microphone and green backdrop, giving students the opportunity to record a podcast while even green screening their background. If students have an interview assignment, they can record the interview in the podcasting room, provided they email the makerspace ahead of time. One of the many things I love about TRU is that they encourage students to be creative in a variety of ways. You can check them out here.

HOL 190 or British Columbia Centre 

Photo of the university Senate meeting in HOL 190

TRU has prioritized the indigenization of campus, and you can find many examples of this in House of Learning. HOL 190 is the largest lecture room on campus, holding up to 300 people. It is in the shape of the traditional Secwépemc Pit Home, also known as a winter home. There is also a piano in this room, so if there is not a class in session, students are free to play the piano.  

Indigenous Artwork  

Have you ever wondered why there is a Coyote on top of the HOL building? Well, it symbolizes our commitment to realizing the potential opportunities Higher Education can provide. The coyote, known as Sk’lep in Secwepemctsin, is a symbol of change and it is here to remind and influence the faculties within TRU. Sk’lep is just one example of the artwork present around House of Learning.

The Salmon Stream  

Photo of the Salmon Stream floor artwork in HOL taken from above.

When you are waiting for your order from Tim Hortons, just look to the floor and you will see a Salmon Stream running through the ground. This Salmon Stream is beside what was originally the living wall in HOL. Just look closely and you will be able to see large salmon and the rocks on both sides of the stream. 

TRU is a wonderful place, each building with different gems to discover. I’m grateful to pursue my education on this land and at TRU. 


Future Student Ambassador, Maryam – Bachelor of Arts, “The Brown Family House of Learning: Gems You Need to Discover”, 10 Nov. 2022.

3 Essential Services Offered at TRU for a Successful Career

The TRU crest next to the text "Thompson Rivers University - Career & Experiential Learning"

TRU offers a range of services to help you achieve your career goals. Whether you’re a new student trying to navigate your way through your academic program or alumni looking to transition into your professional career, there are resources available to support you. Here are three essential services that can help you succeed both academically and professionally.

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5 Things I Wish I Knew Before University

If I could go back in time to give myself some advice about university, there are many things I would tell my 18-year-old self.

1. Don’t Overwork Yourself

In my final years of high school, I tried to do it all, balancing school, sports, a part time job, and a social life all at the same time. If I could go back, I would spend less time trying every extracurricular and more time making memories with my friends.

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Receiving Guidance from a Peer Academic Coach

Thompson Rivers University offers many useful services for students for free! It is vital to take advantage of all the different supports offered; these services can assist you in your studies and enhance your learning experience. There are student services for helping with writing, mental health, math, and many more. This semester, I noticed my stress level was quite high due to working multiple jobs while being a full-time student. I felt as if I didn’t have any time for myself, so I was recommended Peer Academic Coaching by one of my coworkers. 

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Unleash Your Creativity at TRU’s Makerspace: A Hub for Innovation and Learning

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is proud to offer its students, staff, and faculty an innovative and collaborative space to explore and create: the TRU Library Makerspace. This unique facility encourages experimentation with technology and hands-on learning in a supportive and inclusive environment, fostering growth, creativity, and the development of new skills. In this blog post, I will delve into the wonders of Makerspace and how it can enrich your university experience.

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Organized Chaos: How to Stay Organized in your First Year

As a student, organization is vital to your success. Having a system in place in your first year will make your student life much easier, as you will have everything you need to be an organized rockstar! In my first year, I struggled with finding a system for myself, but once I did, I found my mental health improved and my efficiency and grades increased. The system I created for myself is one that I continue to use now in my third year. It’s also one that I’m able to use to answer the job interview question “how do you stay organized?”, which I’ve been asked at least twice now. Of course I’m going to tell you what worked for me as a student, but you should know that when adopting a system, it is not one size fits all. Use what works best for you and your life!

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Energize Your Body and Mind: Discover TRU’s Free Fitness and Yoga Classes

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At Thompson Rivers University (TRU), we believe in nurturing not only the academic growth of our students but also their physical and mental well-being. That’s why we offer a wide range of fitness and yoga classes for students and staff, absolutely free! In this blog post, I will highlight the exciting fitness and yoga classes available at TRU, showcasing how you can achieve a balanced and healthy lifestyle while pursuing your academic goals.

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A Student’s Story of Improving Grades

Photo of students using the study pods on the fourth floor of the Brown Family House of Learning.

I am a fourth year Bachelor of Business Administration student at TRU. I am proud to say I have been a Dean’s List student for four consecutive semesters as well! The Dean’s List includes students whose GPA is 3.5 or higher. With this designation, I am recognized as a hardworking and disciplined student. However, the truth is that I was not always this student. 

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Finding Your TRU

Thinking of coming to TRU but don’t know where to start? It’s okay, I didn’t either. With so many choices of programs, certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s sometimes hard to start finding your path. Luckily, the problem of too many choices is a good thing and can be used to your advantage. Here I’ll share with you how I found my TRU and how you can find yours, too! 

How I found my TRU

Finding my TRU started at a Spring Open House. At this time, I was already accepted into TRU and was figuring out what I wanted to study for the next four years. Open House was really helpful because I was able to sit in on different classes, talk to advisors about specialty programs, and explore campus on my own. I’m not going to lie, Open House was overwhelming, and I switched my degree plan four times within three hours. It was a lot to take in, but it gave me plenty of information and things to think about before I started in the fall.  

The biggest piece of advice I can give you when finding your TRU is to keep an open mind and to try things that sound interesting to you. My parents advised me to look up courses on TRU’s webpage, read the description, and, if it sounded like something I wanted to try or explore, then to register. To be honest, this was the best thing I did, and it led me to my major almost instantly. I know that reading a bunch of course descriptions sounds boring and tedious but in the long run it could save you from switching majors and setting yourself back.  

You might be thinking, if I pick courses that are all over the place, aren’t I wasting time and money? No. I thought the same thing too, but that is not the case at all. Trying different things within your first and even second year is a good thing! Although they may not be courses directly related to your major, they do count as electives. Within my first two years at TRU, I took sociology, anthropology, philosophy, English, and, of course, communications. These sound all over the place, and they are, but taking all of these courses allowed me to find what I like and what I don’t. Now finishing my third year, I am happy I took such a variety of courses. It did not set me back, and instead helped me find the major that was meant for me: communications. Overall, take courses you want, not what you’re ‘supposed’ to take. They will count as electives and/or requirements for your major*.

*Some programs and/or majors offer less flexibility. When in doubt, check out the program planning form or meet with an Academic Advisor (if already accepted to TRU) or a Future Student Advisor

Tips and Tricks

Here are my tips and tricks for finding your TRU and making the most out of your time here! 

  • Do your research, read about different fields of study. 
  • Don’t declare your major in your first year (unless you are in a specific field of study like nursing).  
  • Try new classes and use those credits for your electives. This is a great way to explore your options.  
  • Attend at least one Open House before coming to study in the fall. This will help you grasp what you want to do here. 
  • Think about a minor, if appropriate to your studies, in second and/or third year. Don’t rush into it, you have time.  
I hope my tips and tricks help you find your TRU! Starting your post-secondary studies can be a lot to think about and overwhelming at times. I hope my story of finding my TRU helps you consider other ways of starting school here and how to make the most out of your money and time!

TRU Future Student Ambassador, Arnica – Bachelor of Arts, “Finding Your TRU

The Ultimate Guide to a Stress-Free University Move-in Day 

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The countdown to your university adventure has officially begun and move-in day is just around the corner. Whether you’re a first-year or master’s student, the excitement, nerves, and the chaos that come with moving into a new dorm or apartment are all part of the experience. To make this transition as smooth as possible, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to ensure your university move-in day is a memorable and stress-free event. 

  1. Plan Ahead 

One of the most crucial aspects of a successful move-in day is planning. Take the time to create a checklist and timeline, ensuring you have everything you need and that you’re well-prepared. Here’s a quick rundown of what to consider: 

Packing: Start packing early. Organize your belongings and remember to label your boxes. Don’t forget essential items like bedding, toiletries, and school supplies. 

Residence Hall Rules: Familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines of your university’s residence halls or apartments. Knowing these rules can help you avoid potential issues during move-in. 

Roommate Communication: If you have a roommate, reach out to them before move-in day to discuss who’s bringing what. This will help prevent duplicates and ensure you make the most of your shared space. 

  1. Pack Smart 

Packing efficiently can make move-in day a breeze. Use these tips to pack smart: 

Storage Containers: Opt for plastic storage bins instead of cardboard boxes. They’re sturdy, reusable, and can be easily stacked in your new space. 

Vacuum-Sealed Bags: These are perfect for clothing and bedding. They save space and keep your belongings clean. 

Roll, Don’t Fold: Roll your clothes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. 

Essentials First: Pack your essentials (toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents) in a separate bag or box. This way, you won’t have to rummage through everything to find what you need right away. 

  1. Be Early, but Not Too Early 

Arriving early on move-in day can save you from long lines and limited parking spots. However, make sure you’re not too early; residence halls may have specific move-in time slots to prevent congestion. Arriving during your assigned time will help maintain order and minimize stress. 

  1. Dress Comfortably 

Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes on move-in day. You’ll be doing a lot of lifting, walking, and possibly climbing stairs, so prioritize comfort over fashion. 

  1. Stay Hydrated and Energized 

Moving can be exhausting. Make sure to stay hydrated and have some snacks on hand to keep your energy up throughout the day. Kamloops Tends to still be very warm in the first weeks of September.  

  1. Embrace the Help 

Many universities provide move-in day assistance, with volunteers and staff members ready to help you carry your belongings to your room. Don’t be shy – accept the help. It’s a great way to meet new people and make your day easier. TRU staff is always willing! 

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  1. Personalize Your Space 

Once everything is in your room, take some time to make it feel like home. Decorate, arrange your furniture, and add personal touches to create a comfortable living space that reflects your personality. 

  1. Safety First 

Before you start decorating, familiarize yourself with the fire safety regulations in your residence hall. These might include rules about candles, extension cords, and other potential hazards. Knowing these rules can help prevent accidents and keep you safe. 

University move-in day can be a mix of excitement and anxiety, but with the right planning and mindset, it can be a memorable experience. Follow these tips to make the process as smooth as possible and ensure you start your university journey on the right foot. Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s also about the journey. So, embrace the adventure, make new friends, and create lasting memories as you embark on this exciting chapter of your life. 

Written by Future Student Ambassador, Karolina. (2023).