[doc holliday]

Based on your criteria, I would go to Montreal and start there. Like everyone has said, there's 5 unis there, tons of young people there, best nightlife in Canada. Rent is pretty inexpensive there too so I'd say that it's a good city to start in. I would also definitely take the opportunity to learn French while your there, it will enhance your day to day living tremendously. I've had people's eyes light up with joy when my dumb American ass speaks in French to them. Too many anglos move there and don't learn French which then hinders their overall experience. Only drawback is that you'll end up becoming a fan of their crappy, overrated hockey team but c'est la vie as they say en Francais.