Imagine Day at UBC is one of those events that I’ll never forget. When I first arrived on campus, it was all about getting to know the place, meeting new people (including some of my future professors!), and figuring out what university life was all about. But here’s a little secret I’ve learned over the years: Imagine Day isn’t just for the newbies. No matter what year you’re in, it’s worth showing up. Let me tell you why…
Reconnect with Your UBC Fam
After a summer away, Imagine Day can be the perfect way to dive back into campus life. It’s like one big welcome party where everyone from first year to fourth year revels in their UBC spirit. The energy is infectious and it’s a great way to remind myself that this is exactly why I chose UBC in the first place. Plus, who doesn’t love a good excuse to snag some free swag and catch up with friends you might not have seen in a while–or maybe even make new ones?
One of my favourite parts of Imagine Day is celebrating your faculty’s camaraderie, wearing my faculty colours (purple all the way), or even cheering the faculty chant! Trust me, it’s loud, chaotic and so much fun! A true welcome to the new academic year. I personally find the faculty-based events as the perfect way to reconnect with my department and meet other students with similar interests as me.
Friendly Reminder: Keep an eye out on your inbox for your personalized Imagine Day schedule towards the end of August!
Find New Ways to Get Involved
Even if you’re already part of a club or two, Imagine Day is the perfect time to branch out or dive deeper into what you’re passionate about. With booths lined up through the entire Main Mall I believe that you might stumble across something new or unexpected. It’s all about keeping your university experience fresh and exciting! For example, I discovered UBC Print on Imagine Day, and it’s been a game-changer for my creative side. If you love arts and crafts, definitely stop by and snag a yearly membership. And if dancing is more your thing, try a beginner class with UBC Salsa Rueda —they’re super welcoming, even if you’ve never danced before. Or come by and say hi to us at the CLC booth!
Make the Most of Your UBC Years
University isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about building memories, making friends, and being part of a community. Imagine Day is one of those traditions that brings everyone together and creates that sense of belonging that’s so special at UBC. By showing up every year, I’m not just attending an event—I’m diving into the full UBC experience, year after year.
And yes, I did sit through the president’s speech during my first Imagine Day. Was it long? Absolutely. But it was also one of those moments where I felt like I was really part of something bigger. Plus, I met a few people that day who I ended up seeing in my classes later on, and those familiar faces made the first few weeks of university a lot less intimidating.
A Shoutout to Transfer Students
If you’re transferring to UBC from another school, Imagine Day can feel a bit overwhelming—but trust me, it’s a fantastic way to start your journey here. As an international student I know how it feels to step onto a new campus where everything seems unknown, and you’re trying to find your place. That’s where Imagine Day really shines. It’s the best opportunity to get a feel for the campus, meet new people, and start building your UBC community from day one.
Imagine Day is for everyone, not just first-years. It’s a day full of energy, discovery, and community that helps set the tone for the whole year. So, whether it’s your first year or your last, don’t miss out. Show up, have fun, and make the most of what UBC has to offer. Trust me—you’ll be glad you did.
