As we near the beginning of the September term, nearly 3,800 graduate students are beginning their journeys on the Vancouver campus, with more than 500 doctoral students and more than 3,200 master's students. On the Okanagan campus, nearly 500 graduate students will be beginning their studies. 

All incoming graduate students on the Vancouver campus are invited to join orientation events to meet and mingle with graduate students, network and receive fun prizes, food and more. The full schedule of orientation activities is posted on the orientation website, but a few of the events are highlighted below. 

September 3 and 4

  • GradStart Welcome is the main event on September 3 from 2 to 4pm. This event is for both international and domestic students, and includes official welcomes from the President, the Musqueam First Nation, various offices across campus including the Graduate Student Society and International Student Development. Including performances and live Q & A, the main event is always a hit for new students. The event is held in the Frederic Wood Theatre, with livestreaming to the Graduate Life Centre for those who want a more sensory-friendly space for kids, partners, or just extra leg room.
  • The Social Fair is held directly after, from 4 to 6 pm on Main Mall, bringing food, drinks, giveaways, games and more into the mix. Apples from the Okanagan are typically a hit for international students. Make sure you get a photo at the photo booth!

  • After the fair the GSS holds their Pub Night event from 6 to 9 pm in Koerner's Pub, for those that want to continue mingling over appetizers, food and perhaps alcohol. Note: the pub night is a ticketed event, you must purchase tickets in advance. 

     

  • Not sure where anything is on campus? No problem! Come to the Pancake Brunch with campus tours on Friday, September 4 from 10 am to 12 pm, with the tours starting shortly after. This event is usually packed, so be sure to grab a spot early!

Events for specific audiences

  • Black student orientation will be held on September 10. This is a great opportunity to meet not only fellow black students, but other faculty and staff. 
  • Indigenous students are invited to attend the Indigenous graduate student lunch on September 21, in addition to the other orientation events happening at the First Nations House of Learning. Whether you are a new student or returning, all Indigenous students are welcome to join.
  • Parents with children may like the GSS Family Fun Day at Acadia Park. This event brings together graduate students with younger children for an orientation to family services at UBC. 

GSS events

The Graduate Student Society offers events year-round. During the month of September, they are holding a Bowling Night, Games Night, a night out at the Whitecaps, and more. Visit their website for more details. 

Other events 

Missed GradPrep day and want to get off on the right foot in planning your degree? Register for our GradStart Bootcamp. Offered in person (September 22) or online (September 23) this session includes strategies for success, time management tips, goal setting, and how to look for opportunties. 

 

Check out the full schedule of events at orientation.grad.ubc.ca.

Are you an incoming student? Be sure to visit community.grad.ubc.ca for tips on settling into Vancouver. 

 

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