14 Jan Get to Know Kamloops & Plan Your Move Before Attending Thompson Rivers University
If you’re planning to live in Kamloops while attending TRU, you’ll need to decide whether Thompson Rivers University housing or off-campus housing is the better fit for you. Regardless of where you live, spending time learning about Kamloops, its neighbourhoods and local culture can help you feel more settled and less like an outsider when you arrive. In this post, you’ll learn where to find basic information about the city, how to explore neighbourhoods before you move, and what to review when comparing housing options, making the transition to student life easier and less stressful.
Start With a General Overview of Kamloops
A good first step is to read the Kamloops Wikipedia entry. The page gives a practical snapshot of the city, including the history, population size and demographics, geography and climate, neighbourhoods, transportation routes and local economy. If you’re moving to Kamloops from another city or country, the Wikipedia overview provides a quick “Kamloops 101” and a list of resources for further research.
Next, read the Thompson Rivers University Wikipedia entry. The page provides a concise overview of the university’s history, academic structure, and role in the community, including details about its main campus, student population, and areas of study.
Explore What Kamloops Has to Offer
Find out what Kamloops has to offer by visiting the Tourism Kamloops website. Although the website is for visitors, it’s also a useful resource for TRU students who are new to the area. You can learn about local culture, browse a list of popular restaurants, wineries, and breweries, explore activities by season, and view a calendar of events which take place in Kamloops throughout the year.
Review the Thompson Rivers University Housing Web Pages
Before deciding between TRU housing and off-campus options, review details about on-campus residences, which includes North Tower, McGill Residence dorms, East Village and Coyote Den. Read about housing amenities, common areas, rates and roommate matching.
Use Google Maps to Explore Neighbourhoods
Use Google Maps and Google Streets to explore neighbourhoods and amenities near TRU. If you set McGill Ridge Apartments as your starting point, you can see how close our apartment rental community is to campus, shopping, services and the rest of the Kamloops.
- Get travel directions
- View maps of shopping and services near TRU
- View Kamloops on Google Streets and virtually walk, bus, bike or drive
Choose Between TRU Housing & Off-Campus Housing Early
Several months before the beginning of a school term, decide whether you’ll live in Thompson Rivers University housing or off-campus housing. Planning early gives you time to compare amenities, privacy and security, lease terms and costs.
McGill Ridge Apartments Near TRU
McGill Ridge Apartments is located steps from the TRU campus. We rent studios, 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom plus study, and 2 bedroom apartments. If you’re considering off-campus housing, review our apartment floor plans and pricing and apply here. A representative of our property management company will contact you within a few business days to discuss next steps.