“Truth, Duty, Valour”

Cadets lined up in front of the Mackenzie Building

Founded in 1876, the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) is situated on Point Frederick, a military base with over 200 years history. This is definitely a “University with a difference.” Walking onto campus you pass through a high archway which details all the campaigns Canadian soldiers have fought in. There are red-shirted cadets jogging around the parade grounds, near the Officer’s Mess. Historical artillery pieces from the World Wars sit around the campus. Uniformed cadets, camouflaged military personnel, and polo-shirted professors walk with purpose under the watchful eyes of portraits and statues of commanders of yore.

Fort Frederick

I am handed a “report card” which I am to take to various points around the campus and sign in (ie. report for duty). After my “tour of study” I must have each of my supervisors sign me out prior to leaving RMC. I am advised to guard this card closely, and am warned of the dress code on campus (collars and slacks for civvies). Some extra advice: “Be polite. Know who you are talking to. Don’t talk back.”

The people here are proud to study/work at RMC. The school is small and there is definitely a team atmosphere. I feel like I will get a lot out of being here (mind you, this is just a first impression!).

A few days later Lady Younghusband and I walked to Queen’s University. RMC students must purchase their books through this uni, and are able to take classes here for credit at RMC. We happened to arrive on “moving into dorm day.” Dyed hair, eyebrow piercings, jeans around the knees… I laughed. After the comfortable culture shock of RMC I was reminded what a regular university campus was like. Once again, I thought, I think I will enjoy my time at RMC.