Grebel is a Solid Foundation for Students
“Grebel was such a solid foundation in my first year,” said Jobina Masyawong, a second-year Therapeutic Recreation student. Jobina lived in the Conrad Grebel University College residence last year and is now part of the associate program while living off campus. “I have a lot of joy being with the Grebel community.”
Jobina grew up in Kitchener and attended Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, where she heard about Grebel as a residence option for anyone considering post-secondary schools in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. In her first year at Grebel, Jobina became known for greeting everyone by name and received a Student Life Award for her friendly and cheerful presence in the community.
“Grebel is a very cozy spot that is another home to me because of my experience of living here in my first year!” Jobina wanted to prioritize staying connected with Grebel while not living in residence. "I love the community! A lot of my friends live in residence, and I’ve had the blessing to connect with new friends as well!”
While living elsewhere, Grebel serves as a base for students when they are on campus. "I don’t have to worry about where I should go in-between or after classes,” Jobina said. “There are so many other buildings around campus, but none of them have the same energy as Grebel. I feel like I have a place here with many friends and good vibes.”
“I spend a lot of my time at Grebel,” Jobina said. At any point in the day, she can be found playing games in the games lounge, studying in the cafeteria, or participating in student events. “I feel very connected to the Grebel community as an off-campus associate,” she reflected. “I love doing fun side quests with other Grebelites!”
This term, the associate program included a drink plan. Associates can enjoy unlimited beverages from the Grebel cafeteria for as long as they are in the space, which is convenient since many associates choose to study and socialize around the tables in the cafeteria when they aren’t in class. "I’m so happy that they added it into the associate deal because it’s a nice way to still feel like I belong,” Jobina shared. "I can get the drinks from the caf like any other Grebelite!”
Associates are an important part of Grebel student life, whether they live on campus in the Grebel apartments or off campus around Waterloo. Grebelites with different experiences contribute to a diverse community where unique perspectives are shared around snack tables and board games. “More people should be off-campus associates at Grebel because you get to connect with a wonderful, welcoming community,” Jobina shared. “If you’re on a school term, it’s great to have Grebel as your home base on campus. There are many spaces to chill, have fun, and study or work! With the drink plan, you can enjoy juices and hot drinks whenever you’d like!”
