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When I look back on Albert College, the thing that sticks out isn’t the grades or the exams. It’s the feeling of being noticed. Albert is small enough that people pay attention, but big enough to give you freedom. Teachers saw me as a person first. Ms. Knight in the art department, for example, was the one who pushed me to treat every design project like it was real, like there was a client waiting. That kind of personal push is what made Albert unique compared to larger schools where you can disappear into the crowd.

The best thing Albert gave me was confidence. I entered shy and unsure about what I wanted. I left with a clearer voice and direction.

If I would you have done anything differently, if anything, I’d take more risks earlier and sign up for things without worrying if I’d fit in. My advice to new students is don’t hold back. Teachers and peers will support you if you put yourself out there.

What I liked most about Albert was the personal attention. You were noticed, and that shaped everything from academics to social life.

To incoming students: spend time in the art studio, even if you’re not “an art person.” It’s a place of calm and creativity. And if you’re in residence, be open to your roommates as you’ll learn as much from them as you do from your classes.

The academics at Albert weren’t easy. English was my favorite because it was about talking things out. You had to bring your perspective, not just memorize. Math was harder for me, but I never felt like I was stuck. Teachers gave me their time, which mattered a lot. Albert expected us to work, but they also adapted to how we learned. That balance prepared me for Humber’s design courses, where independence is key.

Sports weren’t my strongest area, but at Albert, participation was encouraged. I joined recreational volleyball and fitness classes, mostly for balance. It wasn’t about being the best, but about staying active and part of a team. Coaches were supportive without being overbearing. It made athletics less intimidating and more about community.

This was where I found my place. The art studio was open late, and I often stayed behind to paint or work on design sketches. There was freedom to experiment. The facilities weren’t massive, but the environment mattered more because it was welcoming, and teachers encouraged creativity instead of boxing it in. Theatre and music had their own strong followings too. Even if you weren’t directly involved, you could feel the support when school performances came around.

I joined committees and volunteered at local events through the school. Helping with open houses or community drives gave me a sense of responsibility. It wasn’t about just volunteering, it was about contributing to a school culture where everyone pitched in.

Residence life wasn’t perfect, but it was valuable. Sharing a room with others meant learning patience. Sometimes there was noise when you needed quiet, or you had to compromise on space. Those moments taught independence. You grow up fast when you’re managing your own schedule, laundry, and personal conflicts all at once.

The dining hall was simple but reliable. Meals were where you caught up with classmates, not just about food. Themed banquets, especially around the holidays, were memorable. Those nights had a sense of celebration and community that broke up the routine of the week.

Belleville is small, which at first felt limiting. But over time, I came to appreciate the calm. Downtown had a few nice spots, and the waterfront was a place to reset. It wasn’t the city, but it gave enough balance between school life and a little freedom.

Because Albert is small, you can’t disappear. Everyone knows you, which sometimes feels intense, but it also means you form close connections. My best friends are still people I met in residence or through council work. The social life wasn’t about huge parties; it was about hanging out, supporting each other, and finding your circle.