UBC campus community welcomes new students to university

UBC’s Okanagan campus was a whirlwind of people and activity during student orientation events last year.

Fun and informative activities and events planned over the next two weeks

As the academic year gets underway, students new to UBC's Okanagan campus can choose from dozens of informative, entertaining and fun activities designed to introduce them to the campus community.

Tuesday, September 4 features Create -- an annual student orientation program that offers a variety of events for all new students.  Featuring food, swag, campus tours, games, prizes, entertainment and dozens of information booths, the event helps students learn about the people, places, activities, and resources available to them on campus.

"The atmosphere during Create is electric. There is so much activity and energy. It really helps to set the stage for the year," says Adam Goodwin, student event coordinator with Student Development and Advising. "The University Centre’s commons area is where most of the Create activities can be enjoyed, although there are a number of events taking place throughout campus."

In addition to Create, undergraduate international students have an opportunity to take part in Jumpstart, August 27 to 31. Jumpstart is an orientation program that highlights academic, cultural, recreational and social activities on and off campus that are available to international students.

"We have 124 international students from approximately 36 countries attending Jumpstart-- the most ever," says Leah Sanford, manager of International Programs and Services. "The purpose is to provide our first-year international students the opportunity to have a head start in their transition to a new country, city, and culture."

This year, Jumpstart will combine many of its social activities with the campus Kickstart program, designed for out-of-region and out-of-province incoming first-year students.

"The goal is to foster meaningful friendships among new students, encourage students to experience the Okanagan, settle into campus, meet faculty, and gain valuable tips for academic success," says Chelsea Butchart, commuter services coordinator with Student Development and Advising.

"Students will have the opportunity to go kayaking, hike Knox Mountain, go on a houseboat cruise on Okanagan Lake, and take a day trip to Penticton for mini-golf and floating the channel."

On Monday, September 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Aboriginal Student Orientation will be held. The day includes a holistic overview of the programs and supports offered by Aboriginal Programs and Services, which encompass a balance of academic, spiritual, emotional, and physical components to foster and promote student achievement and overall well-being.

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