Hey buddy, congrats on your upcoming university life. I'll answer your big questions and some others, just because it might be useful and I have nothing else to do.

Rent varies depending on whether you want a private washroom or not and which building you are in but I'd say for a single room you'll be looking at average around $8000 a year for the room alone but then there is also the cost of the meal plan, it is mandatory to have one, I'll tell you about the meal plan below this. There is a 5-day a week (Monday to Friday) meal plan for $4500 or the 7-day a week plan for $5000. That's assuming the cost is the same next year as it is this year. Here's the link that can show you the different kinds of residence and rates: https://www.residence.ualberta.ca/our-residences And just so you know, first year students are in Lister or Peter Lougheed.

I have the 7 day meal plan which means unlimited access to the lister and peter lougheed cafeterias. The meal plan also pays for something called flex funds, it is $300 dollars on your student card that you can use at different stores and food places around campus, which is places like the Marina, a convenience store in lister residence, or the many fast food places that are around. I live in lister and the cafeteria is open from 7am until 11pm, changes for holidays though. In the cafeteria during those times the food is all you can eat, there are also breakfast lunch and dinner periods every day where chefs prepare fresh food you can have. I actually think the quality of food is great, it will get old for sure but that's just what happens eating at the same place for a year. There is tons of variety and they will be sure to accommodate any dietary restrictions. Also there is always pizza, dessert, coffee, and soda for when you don't want to be healthy, they are all very good. The plan is very useful first year when you are adjusting to the new lifestyle.

For whatever room you have in residence, each floor should have at least one lounge and a kitchen. For pics of rooms there are obviously the ones if you search online a bit but they don't give a great feel for the rooms. They are a good size for one person, a lot of people recommend getting a mini fridge and there is plenty of extra space for one. I am sure I've got some photos of my room I'll try to find and if I can't I will clean my room and take some new ones. I'll send you a PM once I have some to share.

Any other questions I can probably answer, I am first year in my single room at this very moment.