As fall quarter enters its final stretch, I’ve been able to do some reflecting about my time here at UC Davis. When I was a prospective transfer student, my mind would ponder the particulars of my future campus life. One detail that somehow slipped my mind was the sheer size of the campus, especially as someone whose preferred mode of transport was walking. It’s safe to say that I had greatly underestimated the size of the campus. As a result, I have compiled the best cheat codes for getting around that prioritize convenience and optimize all that UCD has to offer for self-proclaimed full-time walkers like me.
#1: Tag Along!
I’m pretty positive that I won’t be able to fit comfortably into a bike basket, but I sure can hitch a ride on the back! While I, and other full-time walkers, don’t subscribe to riding scooters and bikes, there are plenty of UC Davis students who do — a staple in the Aggie campus experience. There’s always some extra room behind the driver, so take this as a sign to hop on your friend’s rolling transportation and your own way to your next stop in no time. It’s practically carpooling!
#2: Take a Not-So-Hidden Shortcut
The scale of the campus might seem intimidating at first glance; look closer, and you’ll see that it can hold something to your advantage. Crossing fields and muddy earth or strolling through odd spaces not meant for wheels are all routes designated for the common walker, a personal shortcut. There are plenty of easy-access bypasses scattered around UC Davis’s campus. Integrating them into your walking map can result in ultimate time efficiency, making for a quicker journey to your favorite study spot or cafe. You have the power of shortcuts that cater to a full-time walker at your disposal.
#3: Prepare Accordingly
The ultimate pillar of being a full-time walker is, well, walking. It’s an unavoidable reality that sometimes (most of the time), we full-time walkers have to take the path from point A to B. When trekking to your destination is really the only option, and the above tips aren’t readily available, the best way to survive those long walks is to suit up. This can be done firstly with a pair of comfortable, reliable shoes to support you from any potential discomfort; keeping a filled water bottle with you to ensure hydration; and sporting some audio gear — headphones, AirPods or earbuds — to keep you busy and motivated as you make your trip across campus.
Walking around might not always be the speediest; I’m sorely reminded of this truth when I’m in a rush or feeling lazy while trying to get essentials, go to appointments and even grab dinner. This quarter, however, has definitely let me into the beauty of taking it slow through my steps and making the best out of my situation. Zooming around on a bike, scooter, skateboard, or similar might be the norm for the ordinary person on UC Davis’s campus, but for those who prefer walking, these are tips to make the trip a little more trouble-free.