Students get back into rhythm through TRU’s annual Welcome Back BBQ

KAMLOOPS — For the first time since the start of the pandemic, the annual Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Welcome Back Barbecue welcomed new and existing students to the campus for some good eats and to try new things.

A new year is ahead of eager students getting back into the swing of things at TRU.

“People are stoked, people are happy, people are living their best lives and exploring more than what we’ve been doing in the last two years they’re really happy,” says Shirlene Ndenge, the Student’s Union Vice-President.

First-year students say this is an entirely new experience and are enthusiastic about the new opportunities that await.

“It’s amazing and beautiful. I mean, the crowd over there, the food, the games, the free stuff — it’s awesome,” said one student.

“I’m first-year, yeah. Super excited. I’ve only been here for four days, I think, so having this festival is awesome,” said another first-year student.

The students who come have the opportunity to learn more about what college life can be like while also ensuring each of them that much-needed services are easily accessible.

“We’re happy to see different people coming together and get acquainted with what’s available to them on campus and in Kamloops,” adds Ndenge.