The new SUB project under construction at UBC
The few weeks before classes don’t only hold the best weather of the year, they’re also some of the most exciting. New classes, new friends, and of course the occasionally arduous task of finding new routes to buildings you’ve never heard of for that one elective you chose at random.
The past few years have been the time to spot new buildings, walkways, and even fountains. Yes, as you may have noticed, UBC is still in the process of getting a very lengthy, loud, and often temporarily inconvenient makeover. With the new SUB on its way, and construction near the bus loop, it’s nearly impossible to walk around campus without bumping into a few blue fences.
Here are some tips to avoid ending up late, lost, or accidentally squashed by a crane!
Tip No. 1: Listen to people wearing brightly coloured vests.
If you see someone wearing a neon vest and holding a sign, chances are it’s not a fashion statement. You might be late to class, or to a nap, or just desperate for a blue chip cookie, but if someone in a vest is yelling or holding a sign – or holding a sign and yelling in your direction – the best thing to do is stop, listen, and walk where (or when) they tell you to. Your cookie craving isn’t worth getting hit by a crane!
Tip No. 2: Check routes beforehand.
It can occasionally feel like UBC is conspiring against us, with blue fences popping up overnight, blocking our fastest routes to class or the SUB. However, in an attempt to soften the blow, UBC has made an app (of sorts) to help us cope and it can be found here. Check out the app for a list of ongoing and upcoming construction projects! It will give you a good idea of potential detours before you end up late for class. There is even a page dedicated to detours and transit routes. This way, you can always be prepared before you leave campus.
Tip No. 3: Be friendly.
Like University, construction is a transitory business by nature. Some of the people working at UBC are here long term, while others may only work a few weeks on a project. Remember that time in first year you ended up in the wrong Buchanan building, or mixed up East Mall and Main Mall? If a construction worker looks confused or asks for directions to the bus loop, don’t ignore them. Just smile, enjoy the irony of the situation, and point them in the right direction.
Tip No 4. Don’t Stress.
Sometimes life happens, and despite all your careful planning and preparation, and you’ll still end up walking an unexpected mile of blue fence or waiting ten minutes for a truck to go by. While the excuse is likely to wear out sometime mid October, it’s worth noting that everyone on campus is in the same boat. Don’t stress out, most inconveniences can turn into a story to swap with that cute classmate during the next break! Chances are they’ve got one too