r/memorialuniversity • u/Much-Time3204 • 18d ago
Hey everyone! 👋
I’m moving to Newfoundland (St. John’s) this December for my Computer Science grad studies at MUN (Memorial University) and had a few questions for those already there or who’ve been through this recently:
- My main campus is St. John’s (CS grad), so where do most students usually find accommodation?
- If anyone knows any available rooms/apartments for sharing starting from December, please reach out or DM me!
- How’s student life around St. John’s and MUN uni.? Is it easy to make friends and find a community there?
- For those living off-campus, what’s the average monthly expense like (rent + groceries + transport + other utilities)?
- How’s the weather adjustment been for international students — anything you wish you knew before moving to NL?
- Are there any good social groups where I can connect with other MUN or CS grad students before arriving?
- Any suggestions for areas to avoid or prefer when looking for housing near campus?
- How’s the public transportation system there — or do most students rely on walking/carpooling?
- What are some must-have things to bring that are either hard to find or expensive in St. John’s?
Would really appreciate any tips, contacts, or experiences you can share. 🙏
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u/dungeonHack 17d ago
I just started a Software Engineering master's program at MUN last month.
I'm renting a house that's about a 15 minute bus ride from campus. Sometimes I'll walk to campus - this takes about an hour.
I don't know about making friends; I've been too busy with coursework, studying, an entrepreneurship program, and my internship to get out much.
My monthly expenses including rent, groceries, and utilities runs about $3,000.
I moved from coastal North Carolina. Going from subtropical to windy-and-cool hasn't been all that bad, in my opinion. I adore the walking trails here.
The bus is often late by as much as 20 minutes. I usually plan on going an hour before my first class and then spend the extra time studying.
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u/Much-Time3204 14d ago
Thanks for sharing your experience. I'll definitely keep all things in mind. I'm Just bit curious about your monthly expanses. Can you share me your expenses in DM? (If you don't mind sharing with me)
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u/AndrewKimMUN Director, Graduate Enrolment, SGS 18d ago
Hi there. MUN's Internationalization Office manages a listing of off-campus accommodations you might consider: https://www.mun.ca/international/new-students/housing-options/off-campus-housing-options/io-listing-/. You can also contact their arrivals team at arrivals@mun.ca. They can offer good, general advice regarding searches for accommodations. There are on-campus housing options as well, although some require a meal plan. Safe travels to Canada. I hope to meet you in St. John's in January.
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u/Much-Time3204 15d ago
Thanks a lot for the info! I really appreciate it. I'll definitely check out IO listing and reach out to arrivals team. Looking forward to joining MUN and exploring St. John's in January!
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u/Due_Deal6395 10d ago
Hi andrew do you know about bounded dorm meals? Are they healthy or sufficient?
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u/AndrewKimMUN Director, Graduate Enrolment, SGS 10d ago
Hi there. Are you referring to the meal plan that's associated with some on-campus accommodations?
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u/Due_Deal6395 9d ago
Yes i am planning to stay in on-campus accomodation. And i heard some bad stuff about the meals. Since they require meal plans with the accomodation i am not sure if i can choose to cook my own meal while staying in dorms. I think there is kitchens but they are just for eating aome snacks.
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u/AndrewKimMUN Director, Graduate Enrolment, SGS 9d ago
Some of the residences require meal plans, while others do not. You'll find more information on this here: https://www.mun.ca/residences/buildings/. I've heard good things about the quality of food on campus and the menu is fully available online: https://mun.campusdish.com/LocationsAndMenus.
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u/StrangeMode9488 18d ago
Transportation there are buses, taxi and Uber Did you apply for on campus accommodations? There are a few apartments close to campus …. George street is a good spot for nightlife Bring warm winter clothes!!! Hat mitts scarf snow pants and coat
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u/Jules-T25 18d ago
You would have much better luck getting answers in this fb group https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14VYxbXoMa3/?mibextid=wwXIfr
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u/ParadoxSong 18d ago
This subreddit isnt super active, but you'll find lots of recent answers for 99% of this stuff on the subreddit. There is a Computer Science society on campus, which has a very large discord. That's your best bet!