10 Bay Residence | McMaster’s Official Downtown Student Residence

Since moving into the 10 Bay McMaster Residence in July 2025, my experience has been nothing short of excellent.

As an international medical graduate from Nairobi (Kenya), currently sponsored by the St. Joseph’s International Outreach Program, finding a
comfortable and supportive place to live during my training was important to me. The 10 Bay Residence has truly exceeded my expectations.

When I moved in, my apartment was spotless and well maintained. The building’s amenities, such as the gym, entertainment areas, and study spaces, are always clean and inviting. I particularly enjoy the study rooms on the 9th floor, which have become one of my favourite places to work quietly and productively. The accessible, clean drinking water stations on every floor are another thoughtful feature that adds convenience to daily living.

This residence also offers a vibrant sense of community. Despite being an introvert by nature, living here has helped me meet many new people and form meaningful friendships. The regular events posted in the elevators are easy to keep track of, and I often attend the ones that interest me. Having table tennis tables has been a bonus, as playing table tennis is something I genuinely enjoy.

What stands out the most is how friendly and approachable the staff are. The security guards and front desk team are available 24/7, always ready to help with any issue. Their presence adds a strong sense of safety and comfort.

Overall, the 10 Bay McMaster Residence is far more than just a place to stay. It truly feels like a community. I am grateful for the experiences, the people, and the supportive environment I have found here.

Living at 10 Bay has honestly made my life more comfortable. The location is perfect.

Jackson Square, the bus terminal, shops, groceries, banks, ATMs, barbers—everything is literally steps away. Inside the building, I feel safe, comfortable, and cared for. It’s super clean, the heating in each room can be adjusted the way you like it, and the hot water never disappoints.

We get to meet and hang out with students and scholars from all kinds of backgrounds and different campuses. It’s really opened up how we see things and helped us build tons of new connections.

The building itself has so many great spaces: lounges, a pool table, a mini mart, a gym, a movie room, and a rooftop area with an amazing view of downtown Hamilton. It feels more than a home.

But the biggest thing for me is the kindness and compassion behind being given this opportunity. It really means a lot. I feel supported, and I know many of us feel the same. It makes us feel important and unique—something we don’t often get, especially coming from the population we serve. It truly is a rare opportunity, and we’re grateful for it.

A huge thank you to the IOP—we’re all grateful, and one day we’ll pay this generosity forward through the work of our hands.

Many blessings.

I couldn’t ask for a better experience as a new person to Canada.

The facility is beautifully maintained and well kept. Management and staff have always been helpful answering my questions and concerns.

The building is very clean, with excellent sound and thermal insulation. The one-bedroom apartments are spacious and the kitchen is well-equipped (oven, microwave, refrigerator, etc.).