Welcome to the Heat! We want to help you start the year on the right foot, so here’s everything you should do during your first few weeks on campus to thrive at UBCO.
If you ask us, the top four things to keep in mind in your first few weeks here are to find your people, find your way, take care of yourself, and have fun while staying safe.
Let’s break it down.
Find your people
The best way to feel at home is to make connections early. Remember that many of the people you meet in September are looking for new friends, too, so don’t be afraid to say “hi” first.
Things to do:
- Attend at least one orientation or welcome event
- Introduce yourself to someone in each class
- Join a club or student association
- Find a study buddy or class group chat
- Follow UBCO Life on Instagram to stay in the loop and find your community
Quick links
Find your way
Knowing your way around campus and Kelowna will help you feel confident from day one.
Things to do:
- Find all your classrooms before classes begin
- Learn about the Kelowna transit system and set up your U-Pass
- Find places to eat and study
- Learn how to access Canvas
- Pick up your UBCcard
Quick links
- Campus maps
- Campus tours on YouTube
- U-Pass
- Tips on how to actually use transit and your U-Pass from a UBCO student
- UBCcard
- Technology help
Campus lore drop
Did you know the water fountain located in the science building’s lobby has the best water on campus?
Legend says that drinking this water will boost your grades.
Take care of yourself
School can be stressful. Make sure you take time to prioritize your wellbeing along the way and remember that you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed.
Things to do:
- Explore the gym and recreation facilities
- Learn about health and wellbeing services
- Explore the campus trails
- Know who to contact when you need support
Quick links
Have fun, stay safe
University is all about new experiences, but safety helps you make the most of them.
Things to do:
- Save important support numbers in your phone
- Download the UBC Safe app
- Know how to get home safely at night
- Look out for your friends
- Learn where to get help if something doesn’t feel right
- Learn about harm reduction and safe partying in university
Quick links
- Harm reduction
- Sexual Violence Prevention & Response Office (SVPRO)
- Campus Security
- SafeWalk / safe transportation resources
- UBC Safe App
Always remember that you’re not alone! Please reach out anytime if you need support during your university experience. There are always people here to help you. Not sure where to reach out to first? Send us a message, and we’ll point you in the right direction.
– The UBCO Life Team <3
