Blog Posts

Off-campus essentials checklist for the new year

Starting a new year means fresh opportunities, and for students heading into off-campus housing, it’s the perfect time to set yourself up for success. Whether you’re transitioning from dorm life or just moving into a new apartment, making sure you're prepared can help you avoid stress and confusion. This checklist will guide you through the essential items and steps you need to make your new place feel like home, stress-free and ready for the year ahead. Furnishings and room comfort Moving into off-campus housing near Brock University doesn’t have to mean compromising on comfort. Furnishings make all the difference between an empty room and a cozy space that feels like home. The basics are a bed frame, mattress, desk, and chair—all essentials for comfort and productivity. Don't forget to add a few personal touches such as cushions, blankets, and wall décor to create a welcoming and personalized space. If you're staying at Foundry Lofts, you’ll already have fully furnished student apartments, saving you the hassle of hauling large pieces of furniture. All you need to do is add those small personal touches to make the space your own. Kitchen essentials Whether you’re a budding chef or more of a microwave-meal kind of student, having the right kitchen essentials will make a world of difference. Start with the basics—plates, cups, cutlery, and a frying pan. Add a few essentials like a can opener, spatula, and some food storage containers to make meal-prepping easy. A few staple ingredients, such as spices, cooking oil, and easy-to-cook items like pasta and rice, will make sure you’re always ready to put a meal together. It might be tempting to eat out all the time, but having the right tools can encourage healthier eating and save you money throughout the year. Bathroom and cleaning supplies You don't want to get caught on day one without the basics. Bathroom essentials include towels, toiletries, and a shower caddy if you share a bathroom. Cleaning supplies may seem less important at first, but they're critical for maintaining a clean and comfortable space. Get the basics—a broom, dustpan, cleaning spray, and garbage bags. Keeping on top of cleanliness makes a huge difference in keeping your off-campus housing stress-free and ready for friends or family who might drop by. Academic supplies and study essentials Your studies are the main reason you’re here, so set up your space for success. Stock up on the basics—notebooks, pens, sticky notes, and a power strip—to keep all your devices charged. Consider adding a bulletin board or calendar to help organize your schedule. Keeping your academic life in order is essential, especially when living off-campus, where staying focused can be more challenging with the extra distractions and responsibilities. Start the new year right with Foundry Lofts Setting up your off-campus housing near Brock University doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Foundry Lofts , we make moving in easy and enjoyable, offering everything you need to start the academic year on the right foot. Our fully furnished apartments mean you can settle in quickly without the hassle of buying furniture, and our community amenities help you make the most of your student life. Enjoy the convenience of being steps from campus, private & group study spaces to boost your productivity, a fitness centre to keep you active, and a games room and fireside lounge to relax with friends. With laundry, Bell Fibre Internet, and nearby restaurants and shopping, Foundry Lofts offers a seamless blend of comfort, connectivity, and convenience. Choose Foundry Lofts for a supportive community that allows you to thrive academically and socially. Start your new year with a living space that feels like home and supports your success every step of the way.

Essential tips for students to keep colds away all winter long

Winter is just around the corner, and while it’s the season for cozy nights and festive celebrations, it also brings the time of year when colds are more common due to the chillier weather. You’re likely familiar with the telltale signs: a sore throat, stuffy nose, sneezing, and coughing. And of course, a cold can leave you feeling sluggish and stuck in bed for days—not ideal for university life. Fortunately, there are plenty of tips and tricks to help prevent catching a cold, and we’ve gathered them for you. Here’s how you can stay healthy and make the most of the season. Prioritize rest and keep your sleep routine steady College life is hectic, and it's easy to sacrifice sleep to finish assignments or hang out with friends. However, sleep is one of the most powerful tools you have for keeping colds at bay. During sleep, your body releases proteins called cytokines that aid in fighting infections and reducing inflammation. Aim for seven to eight hours each night. Set up a calming bedtime routine by reducing screen time and keeping a regular sleep schedule to ensure quality rest. By giving your body the rest it needs, you’re helping to maintain the defences that fend off illness. Fuel up with nutritious meals Wintertime comfort foods are tempting, but maintaining a balanced diet is key to staying healthy. Load up on fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants to support your immune system. Foods like oranges, spinach, and bell peppers are great sources of Vitamin C, which helps your body fend off colds. Try cooking simple, healthy meals in your apartment to ensure you're getting the nutrients you need. Not only will this boost your health, but it will also save money and provide a break from your studies. Keep your space clean and germ-free Colds are highly contagious, and maintaining a clean environment will significantly reduce your chances of catching a virus. High-touch surfaces, such as door handles, desks, and remote controls, are often the culprits when it comes to spreading cold-causing viruses. Make it a point to wipe down these surfaces regularly using disinfectant wipes. Besides, a clean apartment isn't just healthier—it's also a more pleasant place to come home to. Stay hydrated, even when it’s cold outside It’s easy to forget about drinking water in winter when you’re not sweating in the heat, but staying hydrated is crucial for your health. Drinking enough water helps keep your nasal and air passages moist, which is essential for trapping viruses before they can cause illness. Keep a water bottle with you at all times, and make it a habit to drink from it regularly. Herbal teas are also a great way to stay warm and hydrated during the colder months. Practice proper hand hygiene Hand hygiene is your first line of defence against catching and spreading colds. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, especially after touching shared surfaces or before eating. If you don’t have access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make it a habit to avoid touching your face as much as possible, as this is a common way that viruses enter the body. Take breaks and manage your stress High-stress levels can weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illness. Finding ways to relax and unwind is just as important as eating well and staying active. Some student apartments like those provided by Foundry Lofts come with several amenities designed to help you de-stress, like the fireside lounge and games room. Take time to relax after a long day of classes—your body will thank you for it. Whether it's meditating, reading a book by the fireplace, or playing a game of pool with friends, giving your mind a break to refresh yourself and strengthening your body’s ability to stay healthy. Make exercise part of your routine When it’s cold outside, the idea of going for a run can seem impossible. But keeping physically active is crucial for strengthening your immune system. Exercise increases blood circulation, helping white blood cells move more freely through your body and improve their ability to fight off infections. Whether it’s a quick morning workout or a de-stressing yoga session in the evening, staying active helps ward off those pesky winter colds. Conclusion Winter doesn’t have to mean catching colds and feeling under the weather. By following these simple tips—keeping your space clean, getting enough sleep, staying active, and managing stress—you can enjoy a healthy, happy winter. At Foundry Lofts, our fully furnished student apartments in St. Catharines offer everything you need to stay comfortable, healthy, and focused. With in-suite laundry, private and group study spaces, a fitness centre, and more, you have the perfect setting to balance academics with wellness. Enjoy the benefits of a convenient, comfortable space where you can live, study, and thrive.

6 Must-have free apps for university students

University life brings an array of challenges, from managing classes and assignments to balancing social and personal responsibilities. The key to success often lies in being well-organized and having the right tools at your disposal. Whether you’re navigating your first year of university or preparing for your final exams, technology can make your life much easier. In this post, we’ll explore six must-have free apps for university students, including some that can help you manage both academic and everyday tasks. If you're living in student housing or commuting to campus, these apps will keep you connected, organized, and efficient. Gmail: Manage all your university communications University life involves constant communication—emails from professors, administrative updates, group project discussions, and club notifications. Gmail is one of the most reliable and popular email platforms, and it’s a must-have for university students. With Gmail, you can easily keep track of all your communications, organize them into folders, and set filters for better inbox management. Since Gmail integrates seamlessly with other Google apps like Drive, Docs, and Meet, it becomes a central hub for handling your academic life. Whether you’re on the go or studying in your student rental housing, Gmail ensures you’re always connected. Google Drive: Store and share your files easily With the amount of work students generate—essays, projects, presentations—having a reliable cloud storage solution is critical. Google Drive provides 15 GB of free storage, allowing you to store all your files securely in the cloud and access them from any device. This is particularly useful when working on group projects, as you can share files with classmates and collaborate in real time. For those living in Thorold student housing or on-campus, where you might not always have access to a personal computer, Google Drive ensures you can access your important files from anywhere. The drive also integrates with Google Docs, Sheets, and other tools, making it an all-in-one platform for your academic needs. Google Docs: Simplify your writing and collaboration University students write a lot, from essays and reports to group projects. Google Docs is one of the best free tools for managing all your writing tasks. It’s a cloud-based word processor that allows you to work on documents from any device, and the real-time collaboration feature makes it easy to work on group projects. You can add comments, suggest edits, and track changes, which is perfect for team-based assignments. Google Meet: Virtual study sessions and group meetings With the increasing reliance on virtual learning and collaboration, Google Meet has become a go-to platform for video conferencing and online meetings. Whether you're attending a virtual lecture, hosting a study group, or collaborating with classmates on a project, Google Meet provides a reliable and free solution for video communication. It integrates seamlessly with Google Calendar and Gmail, making it easy to schedule and join meetings. For students living in student rentals in Thorold , Google Meet is especially useful for staying connected with classmates and professors without needing to meet in person. Spotify: Stay focused with study playlists Music can be a powerful tool for concentration, relaxation, or motivation. Spotify offers millions of songs and curated playlists for every mood or occasion. Whether you're looking for focus-enhancing instrumental music, a playlist to get you in the right mindset for exams, or relaxing tunes to unwind after a long day, Spotify has it all. Reebee: Budget-friendly shopping for students Managing your finances is an important part of university life, and finding ways to save money on groceries, school supplies, and everyday essentials can make a big difference. Reebee is a Canadian app that helps students find the best deals by providing access to digital flyers from various retailers. You can compare prices, create shopping lists, and keep track of weekly discounts. Making the most of your student life These apps can significantly enhance your university experience, making life more manageable and enjoyable. But remember, while technology is a great tool, it's not a substitute for hard work and dedication. When it comes to improving student life, consider Thorold student rentals that fully support your academic journey, such as The Foundry Lofts . With features like private and group study areas and complimentary internet, it's tailored to help you succeed in life. Whether you're working on assignments, attending virtual classes, or using these apps to boost your productivity, we have everything you need to make university life smoother while allowing you to focus on what matters most—succeeding in your studies.

5 Best ways to make the most of your study break

Balancing long hours of studying with regular breaks is essential for maximizing productivity and maintaining a healthy academic routine. Many students often feel guilty about taking time off from studying, but the truth is that well-planned breaks can actually improve focus, memory retention, and mental well-being. Whether you're living on campus or in off-campus housing, finding ways to refresh your mind during study breaks can make a big difference. Here are five of the best ways to make the most of your study breaks and come back stronger. Physical exercise to boost focus One of the most effective ways to revitalize your brain during a study break is to engage in physical exercise. You don’t have to hit the gym for a full workout—simple activities like a brisk walk, some stretching, or even a quick yoga session can do wonders for your body and mind. Exercise helps to reduce stress, improve circulation, and release endorphins, all of which can enhance your mood and cognitive function. If you’re staying in off-campus housing, take advantage of the beautiful surroundings by going for a walk around campus or nearby parks. Physical activity gets your blood flowing and gives your brain a break from processing academic information, allowing you to return to your study session feeling refreshed and ready to concentrate. Engage in a creative activity Stimulating your creative side is a great way to give your brain a different kind of workout. Creative activities allow you to relax and have fun while simultaneously engaging your mind in new ways. Whether it's drawing, painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument, doing something creative can provide an excellent mental break. If you enjoy writing, consider journaling during your study breaks to reflect on your day or jot down any thoughts that come to mind. Drawing or colouring can be especially therapeutic, as it promotes mindfulness and gives you a chance to express yourself without the stress of deadlines. For those who are musically inclined, playing an instrument can serve as an effective way to unwind while boosting cognitive skills. Fuel up with healthy snacks and hydration Studying requires energy, and sometimes fatigue during study sessions is linked to low blood sugar or dehydration. Taking study breaks to grab a healthy snack or drink some water is a simple yet effective way to refuel your body and mind. Avoid the temptation of grabbing sugary snacks or energy drinks, which can lead to energy crashes later. Instead, opt for snacks that are rich in protein, fibre, and healthy fats to keep you sustained and alert. Practice mindfulness or meditation Mindfulness and meditation are two incredibly powerful tools to help clear your mind and reduce stress during a study break. These practices can help centre your thoughts, making it easier to focus when you return to your studies. Even taking just five to ten minutes to meditate can make a huge difference in your overall mental clarity and emotional well-being. You can try mindfulness exercises like deep breathing, body scanning, or simply sitting quietly and paying attention to your surroundings. The goal is to find a method that works for you, helping you reset and recharge your mental batteries. Connect with friends or socialize Taking a break from your books to interact with friends or socialize can provide the emotional boost you need to stay motivated and refreshed. Whether it’s a quick chat with a roommate or a phone call to catch up with a friend, social interactions help to relieve academic pressure and remind you that you’re not alone in your university journey. If you're living in student housing, use your study breaks as an opportunity to connect with classmates or flatmates, perhaps over a cup of coffee or a brief conversation. Socializing doesn’t have to take up too much time—sometimes a 10-minute chat about something non-academic is all you need to feel re-energized. Experience the best of student living at Foundry Lofts When it comes to making the most of your study breaks, your living environment plays a crucial role. At Foundry Lofts , you'll find furnished rooms for rent near Brock University designed for both comfort and convenience. With access to top-tier amenities, such as fitness centres and study lounges, you can easily switch between productive study sessions and relaxing breaks—all without leaving your building. Foundry Lofts provides an ideal setting for students seeking balance. Whether you need a quiet space to meditate, a kitchen to whip up a healthy snack, or a communal area to socialize, Foundry Lofts offers it all. And when you're ready to take a breather, you’ll appreciate the thoughtfully designed spaces that enhance both your academic and personal life.

10 Fall Fashion Trends You’ll See on Campus

While you’re packing for next semester, consider how you could give your wardrobe an update. It will help to know what styles are in fashion this fall — in particular, what’s trending with university students. Use these fashion trends to decide what clothing and accessories to pick up for yourself. 1. Matching Workout Attire Being comfortable is always a priority for students. Workout gear is not only comfortable, it’s ideal for everything from classes and hanging out with friends to actual workouts. This fall semester, expect to see many students wearing matching workout sets. 2. Uggs Something else trending due to comfort are Uggs. These are perfect for the fall as the weather turns cooler because they’ll also keep your feet warm in chilly classrooms, especially the classic boots. 3. Messy Hairstyles Don’t expect to see much of the slicked-back hairstyles that were prevalent on campus last year. This fall, students are embracing a messy look. This is great news if you’re often running late in the mornings, as it requires much less effort to achieve than a gelled hairstyle. 4. Casual Business Wear Sometimes, students like to dress up a bit. Expect to see students around campus who are wearing clothing inspired by traditional business wear but more casual. This look is ideal for occasions when you want to look more professional but don’t want to come across as too formal. 5. Eye-Catching Accessories To stand out from the crowd, students are choosing big, bold accessories. This includes chunky chains, statement rings, and oversized earrings. 6. Sustainable Clothing Another way to look unique is to go thrifting for your clothing. This is a major trend on university campuses because it shows a commitment to sustainability and embraces an eco-friendly lifestyle. 7. Varsity Jackets A style that never goes out of fashion among students is varsity jackets. If you only have one piece of attire with your university’s name on it, make it a varsity jacket. 8. Large Tote Bags Models on the runway have been flaunting big tote bags in 2024. This is great news for students, who often need to carry a large amount of stuff with them all day. 9. Bows You’ll see bows everywhere this semester. They feature on everything from hair clips and handbags to all sorts of clothing. It’s all about turning the original connotation of a bow on its head to redefine femininity. 10. Peach Fuzz Since Peach Fuzz was Pantone’s colour of the year for 2024, expect to see this tone making a big appearance on campus. You’ll see it combined with other trends, such as casual suits, oversized bags, and workout attire. You’ll have plenty of space for all your clothes if you live at Foundry Lofts. Our Brock University off-campus housing offers spacious bedrooms and comfortable communal living areas, including fully-furnished options with everything you need. Our apartment community is also a great alternative to campus for meeting other students, such as in places like the fireside lounge, movie theatre, and games room. Apply for your spot now while there are still some spaces available.

How to Become a Student Entrepreneur

Many students choose to go to university not for better job opportunities but in pursuit of starting their own business. There’s no need to wait until you graduate to begin — by becoming a student entrepreneur, you’ll learn crucial skills now, earn some money while you study, and perhaps set the foundations for a business you’ll continue once you’ve left university. 1. Seek Support from Your School The first step is to find out if your school offers any support for student entrepreneurs. Many universities now have entrepreneurship centers, where you’ll have access to resources like advisors, courses, and useful contacts. 2. Search for a Mentor Find a mentor who has the relevant experience to help you. Ask at your university or directly reach out to people who have relevant expertise in the field. You should find that many people are willing to help you succeed, especially if they were once in your position. 3. Apply for Funding Your inexperience means you’re unlikely to have much success if you apply for funding from venture capital firms. However, there are other sources of funding specifically for students. Search for student business grants to gain the cash you need to take your idea off the ground. 4. Compete in Business Contests Another way to gain funding is to participate in competitions for student entrepreneurs. The prize tends to be non-dilutive funding, meaning you’ll maintain ownership of your startup. You’ll need to pitch your idea in front of a panel of investors, which alone is a great experience for teaching you how to present your concept. Plus, you’ll likely receive feedback about your startup idea, including ways to improve it. 5. Take Part in Entrepreneurial Programs Learn the key skills you need to build a business by participating in entrepreneurial development programs. Many of these programs have extra perks, such as ongoing support in a particular area or discounts on services to support your startup. However, if you’re struggling to find the time to take courses in addition to your university classes, choose electives that will teach you the skills you need for your business idea. 6. Meet Other Student Entrepreneurs Make the effort to meet other students who are also striving to become entrepreneurs — there are likely many at your university. You find you’re able to meet them through networking at campus events and by joining student clubs and organizations that attract entrepreneurial types. Being a student entrepreneur does mean you’ll be working harder than friends who are fully focused on their academics. You’ll need to have a quiet space where you can focus on making plans for your business. You’ll find this at Foundry Lofts. Our apartments near Brock University form a student community where you’ll have everything you need to thrive. In addition to having your own room in a four- or five-bedroom apartment, you’ll be able to meet others in the fireside lounge, keep up with your laundry using your own washer and dryer, and collaborate on projects in the group study spaces. Contact us for a lease.