Why I chose HOEM as an International Student

Hey there, I’m Yashvit. If you're not already familiar with me, let me tell you why HOEM on Jarvis has become such a significant part of my life. Hailing from Lucknow, a small city in India, located 11,915 kilometers away from here, my journey to Toronto for my undergraduate studies sparked the daunting question of where to reside.

Finding a space filled with positivity, motivation, and a sense of belonging was my top priority– a true home away from home. After careful consideration, I found exactly that in HOEM. Since moving here in 2022, this community has become my comfort zone. Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of making meaningful connections with over 100 friends and getting to know almost 300 fellow students through the monthly events designed to foster our community spirit. This place has given me more than just a place to live; a family and countless memories for lifetime.

I study at the University of Toronto, where residences from the 1850s continue to be used for students. Personally, I was looking for something new and vibrant, which is when I found out that HOEM was comparatively new, compared to other residences.

Living here not only was convenient with my university campus within walking distance away, but it encouraged me to have a healthy lifestyle. I have 24 hour access to our gym, and I've learned how to cook (and enjoy cooking) for myself rather than use the university meal plan. I've gotten to save money and have a well balanced diet all year round.

In essence, HOEM has seamlessly transitioned into my home, and I envision continuing to reside here until my graduation in 2026. If you're navigating the many housing options in Toronto, allow me to simplify your search—HOEM should undoubtedly top your list.