UBC ams
A UBC Student’s Guide to the Richmond Night Market

by Sally Zhou

Image Credit: destinationlesstravel

It’s that time of the year again! Have you had any foodie adventures with your friends? If not…get ready for a feast!  

The Richmond Night Market, the largest night market in North America, is open from April 26th to October 14th 2024.

Cash-Only Event

Make sure to bring cash to the Richmond Night Market! Most vendors will only accept cash. Here’s a list of major banks/ATMs on UBC campus:

Transportation 

It takes around 1 hour to get to Richmond Night Market from the UBC bus loop. I recommend:

  1. Get on the 33 bus
  2. Transfer to King Edward Station
  3. Take the Richmond-Brighouse Canada Line

Make sure to check the arrival schedule on Google Maps!

Entrance Fee 

The entrance fee is $8 per person. There will be a long queue before the night market starts, so I recommend that you get a Zoom Pass, which costs $40 for 5 people and is transferable. Having a Zoom Pass will help you enter the market quickly. If you do not have 5 people in your group, you can do ticket pooling.  

Food/Activity Recommendations

Here are some recommendations for foods where you can get large portions for relatively low prices:

Ponchos Birria: Cheese lovers will definitely want to order this for a cheese pull! The serving size could be enough for 2 people to eat, since you will definitely eat other things at the market.   

Rotato: You can never go wrong with this order at a night market. The cowboy potato is served with a perfect crunch and a combination of all the available flavours.  

Super BBQ: A popular item at the night market. You can choose your own meat (lamb, shrimp, beef, etc.) for the 4 skewers – I recommend the beef!

Lemonade: A refreshing, freshly-made lemonade is highly recommended, and you can pick your own flavour. The drink also comes with a mini unicorn inflatable!  

Game Booths: There are lots of game options right next to the food booths, where you can spend quality time with friends, family, or a date.  

Your Ultimate Guide for a Day Trip to Bowen Island from UBC

Hey UBC students!  Looking for a fun, budget-friendly day trip without the hassle of a car? Bowen Island is your perfect escape. From stunning nature trails to delicious eats, this charming island has it all. Here’s your friendly guide to making the most out of a day trip to Bowen Island. Let’s dive in!

Getting There: Easy and Budget-Friendly

UBC to Bowen Island:

  1. Catch the #014 Hastings (or any UBC bus) to downtown Vancouver.
  2. Transfer to the #257 Horseshoe Bay Express bus.
  3. Take a BC Ferry to Snug Cove on Bowen Island.

A round-trip ferry ticket costs about $12, making it easy on your wallet. The ferry ride is a scenic 20 minutes—just enough time to get excited about your adventure! 

Food:

Goldie’s Donuts & Bakery 

6693 Nelson Ave Unit 101, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2B2

If you want a quick dessert before your ferry to Bowen Island, consider buying some donuts from Goldie’s Donuts & Bakery. Their donuts are simply delicious! 

The Snug Cafe 

445 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Snug Cafe near the Snug Cove ferry terminal. Even if it was a bit rainy when we visited, the cozy atmosphere and delicious food lifted our spirits. Must-try dishes include the Snug Breakfast! We also ordered Snug Egg, BBQ Chicken Panini, and a Grilled Cheese Sandwich. Trust us, you won’t regret it! 

Branch on Bowen 

400 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

For a mix of ice cream and tacos, head to Branch on Bowen. They serve Earnest Ice Cream and handmade tacos. Pro tip: Try the cookies & cream and butter pecan ice cream. They are to die for! 

Nature Adventure: 

Crippen Regional Park 

Location: 430 Bowen Island Trunk Road #2, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

You must explore Crippen Regional Park. It’s filled with beautiful forests, peaceful lakes, and lots of wildlife. Perfect for hiking, picnics, and bird-spotting. Plus, it’s free—perfect for our college budgets! 

Killarney Lake 

This lake is part of Crippen Regional park. A short 2.5 km walk from Snug Cove will bring you to Killarney Lake, complete with picnic tables and stunning views. It’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Dorman Point 

Location: 370 Robinson Road, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1

As part of Crippen Regional Park, this quick 1.5 km trail hike leads to Dorman Point. The trail offers a short, steep climb to an ocean viewpoint. It’s a beautiful hike through serene nature, featuring old, big trees that add to the enchanting atmosphere.

Tunstall Bay 

Location: 1666 Tunstall Boulevard, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2

Accessible by bus from Snug Cove, Tunstall Bay Beach is a peaceful retreat. Known for its clear waters and beautiful sunsets, it’s a special spot for soaking during the summer.

Shopping:

Artisan Square

Location: Artisan Square, Bowen Island, BC  V0N 1G2

Artisan Square is a small community that offers a range of shopping options, including clothing, boutique, hand-made chocolates, fresh flowers and many more. The artisan Square is accessible via bus and walking. We highly recommend trying the delicious chocolates from Cocoa West Chocolatier, especially the Poblano hot chocolate that has a spicy kick from Poblano pepper.

Bowen Island Marina 

Location: 400 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

Wander around Bowen Island Marina, where you’ll find multiple cafes, ice cream shops, and opportunities for sea kayaking. It’s a lovely spot to relax and soak in the island vibes.

Art & Culture 

Public Library and Heart Gallery 

Location: 430 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1

Explore the local art scene by visiting the public library and Heart Gallery. The gallery showcases amazing works by local artists and sells unique crafts and gifts. And yes, entry is free, making it a great budget-friendly activity. 

Wrapping Up: 

Bowen Island is an absolute gem. Whether you’re into hiking, art, or just chilling with friends, there’s something for everyone. To wrap up your day, don’t miss the stunning sunset from the ferry on your way back. So, gather your squad and set out for a transit accessible day trip!

Exam Study Tips from AMS Tutors

by Gahan Diwan and Iris Guo, AMS Tutors

Get organized ahead of time (Gahan)

Before exams begin, create and stick to a study schedule by answering the following questions:

  • Which exams do you have and when?
  • What content do you need to focus on?
  • What is the weight of each exam?

Do practice exams (Gahan)

If you’re short on time, do practice exams to quickly learn your strengths and weaknesses.

Try active learning. (Gahan)

I like making mindmaps to connect different concepts together.

Use a blank piece of paper. (Iris)

If you have to memorize something, try having a blank piece of paper next to you so you can write or draw to help with memorization.

Relate concepts to everyday life. (Iris)

For example: if you’re learning about disease processes, ask yourself: “Do I have any friends or family with this disease?” This should help you with memorization since it’s more relatable.

Good luck with your exams, UBC!

AMS Tutoring helps UBC students with 100- and 200-level courses through free group or low-cost private appointment tutoring. They also offer free group or low-cost private appointment tutoring for MCAT, LSAT, and GRE post-graduate exams. Learn more here!

Gahan Diwan (He/Him), Biology with Minor in Microbiology and Immunology

What motivated you to be a tutor? I have always been passionate about tutoring and have pursued it as a goal since I was a child. Helping my fellow students and strengthening my own understanding of concepts has been a rewarding experience for me.

What do you like to do in your free time? Working out, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Student clubs, and going out with my friends.

Iris Guo (she/her/hers), Medicine

What motivated you to be a tutor? I have always been passionate about education, and I hope to use my experiences to support students on their MCAT.

What do you like to do in your free time? I enjoy skating, rollerblading, skiing, and going on walks. I also like to stay indoors and read, listen to music, watch reality tv, and go to cute cafes/dessert places!

This Grad Season UBC felicitated it’s ‘slowest’ student: Arthur Ross.

By Tanushi Bhatnagar

Photo credit: UBC

It was 1969 when Arthur Ross first came to UBC to pursue an undergraduate degree. That same year, Neil Armstrong became the first human to step on the moon and the University had just completed 60 years of being. Five decades later, at 71, Mr. Ross became the slowest grad to be awarded his bachelor’s degree at UBC and possibly, the world on Thursday, May 25.

“UBC’s slowest student finally graduates. I just love that idea. It has been a fun ride,” Mr. Ross jokingly said.

Mr. Ross has had quite an academic and professional journey. Starting at UBC in 1969, Mr. Ross’ discontinued his degree just after 2 years of taking general arts courses to pursue theatre when he was 19. Learning that despite his love for theatre, the life of an actor does not appeal him, he decided to go to law school in Toronto and onto a fulfilling law career.

Retiring after 35 years as a practicing lawyer, Mr. Ross decided to come back to his first alma mater to finish what he started. “It would have been a waste of me if I had not tried to carry on with learning. I am so grateful for the university for giving me the opportunity to continue to grow intellectually,” he said.

His interest in English and acting during his two years at UBC led him to partake in several productions at the Frederick Wood Theatre where he met his wife.

Some might even say that it was theatre that brought him back to UBC. Watching the 1909 German opera Elektra by Richard Strauss during a trip to Chicago, he got interested in European history and the mass mentality involved in the execution of the World Wars. Around the time of his retiring, UBC offered a course in European history in the first half of the 20th century and thus, Mr. Ross re-joined the university in January 2017. “At that point, I just got this question in my mind, and I would like to pursue it… The university was quite welcoming to someone of my vintage.”

Mr. Ross recollects that today the University is much bigger and has more people than in the 1970s. “It seems bigger [now], but it seemed big then… I was used to big,” he said. Mr. Ross recalls that the university was not exponentially different from what it is today. One building that Mr. Ross particularly remembers is the Buchanan Building where he took many of his courses both in the 1970s and now – which he says is much better equipped with learning media and assistance after the pandemic.

He also acknowledges that among the student body today there is an increased awareness about the cost of going to university. With that awareness, comes a stress that wasn’t much like the stress in the 70’s. “The stress seems to be a different force than students in the 1970s had to deal with,” he said.

He appreciates that there is a shared motivation among the student body to earn money as a student in order to pay tuition fees and living expenses but also credits the stress in today’s generation to these worries. “I may just have been blind to the stress of the students in the 1970s. I was in the fortunate position where I was not stressed.”

On the learning side of his academic career, Mr. Ross took it one course at a time. Starting in January 2017, he took one course in the fall and winter (except during the pandemic) till December 2022. “There’s not a course that I took that did not change me,” he said.

If there is one place on the campus that Mr. Ross can call his favourite, it is the Martha Piper fountain – and it’s not only because of the fountain itself. “If you look to the north, from that fountain, you see the Canadian flag [and] the rose garden with the mountains in the background, and part of English Bay. It is a spectacular view. But if you turn around from the same point and look South on the wall, you look at what I think is the most important piece of sculpture in the province of British Columbia, the Reconciliation Totem Pole,” he said.

The Reconciliation Totem Pole was carved by the Haida master carver, 7idansuu (Edenshaw) James Hart over two years and was installed at UBC in 2017 representing the history of Indigenous people in Canada before, during, and after the Indian residential school era.

Recalling the only one regret during his academic career, Mr. Ross admits that it has to do with his graduation ceremony on Thursday and UBC Chancellor Steven Point. “I thought – This is a wonderful British Columbian sitting in the Chancellor’s chair. In the five seconds I have before I went up on the stage, I’d like to nod in his direction and acknowledge that he is a significant person – When it came to my turn, I completely forgot,” he laughed.

Mr. Ross, who was present at the convocation of the class of 1985 when both his wife and Mr. Point were classmates and received their law degrees.

For now, Mr. Ross does not have any plans to return to the university or work but has an inspiring message for the students of UBC: “There will be times when you will think ‘Is this worth it? Do I really want to do this?’ I think it’s worth it. It is just worth it, to pursue it.”

9 Finals Tips For Exam Season at UBC

Compiled by Karen Chen

It is that time of the year again. Stress levels are rising sky-high in UBC libraries, and there seems to be an atmosphere of doom and gloom all around. No need to despair! Our AMS executives have put together a finals advice package, with everything related to organization, study tips, and self-care guides. We wish you the best of luck this finals season!

Make a concrete study plan, with days indicating what chapters or modules you are planning to cover every day. Have the self-discipline to stick to it, whether that is by finding a study buddy or switching up your study place. Do not plan anything too review-heavy for the last day before the exam, let your brain have adequate rest! Once you have a solid system in place, success will follow : )

Karen Chen, 2022-23 AMS Work Learn Social Media Coordinator

I love to have a vision board (usually Notion) to write down line by line what I have to revise & complete for each subject. I have a separate section called my ‘To-Do List’ where I move these lines to indicate my workload for the day. Obviously, you cannot always plan absolutely everything, but make sure to complete the top 3 things on that list and you’re good to go.

Stephanie Liu, 2022-23 AMS Associate Vice-President, Funds

Communicating with my professors or TAs bout any course-related stress often helped me to succeed during the final project season. Either asking questions or advice on how to best complete specific assignments. Usually, our instructors are very understanding and accommodating, and ready to help us. Also, my friends and classmates really inspire me to study more as everyone is so hardworking. Creating study groups can turn from a nerve-wracking to super chill quality time.

Anna Shubina, 2022-23 AMS Work Learn Social Media Coordinator

The hardest part is getting started! I like to make a study plan so it is easier to stick to, then instead of finishing a chapter/module, I begin a bit of the next one so that when I pick up again it is more incentivizing to keep going! Also cutting down on other obligations (social gatherings, going out, etc.) during the period of studying can help motivate you to stay focused!

Erin Co, 2022-23 AMS Vice President, External Affairs

Do not be afraid to take time for yourself, it is important to take breaks between your studying, even when you feel the need to keep going! Taking the time to recharge can reset your brain, which will help with your productivity levels. Find what works best for you to decompress, whether it is going for a walk, sharing a meal with a friend, or catching up on some Netflix.

Viola Chao, 2022-23 AMS Equity & Inclusion Lead

When creating your study plans, be realistic in setting your goals. Try to not measure productivity by the amount of work you completed, but rather if you have done what you can with the energy you have available. You know yourself best to determine when to push or take a break! Also, remember that the stress is temporary. Lastly, whether in finals season or not, bite the bullet and start with your most difficult task of the day.

Anisha Sandhu, 2023 Interim AMS Vice-President, Academic & University Affairs

Start small and segment what you need to study into smaller chunks so it feels less intimidating. Make sure to give yourself time to take breaks and do what you enjoy as well so you do not burn out! Also, do not be afraid to ask your professor and TA for help when you are unsure of something, they are here to support your learning! Finally, always remember to take care of yourself.

Naton Ting, 2022-23 AMS Clubs Administrator

I cannot stress the importance of SNACKS (I have been eating a lot of oranges + eggs) and doing small things to improve your mood! It is easy to get bogged down by hours of studying so take care of yourself, and make sure you are fueling yourself! Also on the topic of snacks, I would recommend leaving your house at least once a day for at least 15 minutes even if it is just to refill your snacks at Walmart. There is light at the end of the tunnel! Stay positive and good luck!

Priscilla Ng, 2022-23 AMS Associate Vice-President, External Affairs

We tend to procrastinate because we are searching for that feeling of instant gratification that a long-term study plan does not offer until after the work is done. A remedy for this is making your study process more enjoyable. For myself, I spend a lot of time creating a study environment that I love being in. I like to have a lot of trinkets on my desk and usually listen to music and study with friends. Multi-tasking tends to be a less conventional study tip, but adding extra stimuli to my study process has helped me become more creative and productive. Instead of being hard on yourself for procrastinating or not sticking to your plan, use that time to think about adjustments you could make to the actual process of studying itself.

Tomila Sahbaei, 2022-23 AMS Associate Vice-President, Academic Affairs
Summer 2023 U-Pass BC Fee Exemption

Are you enrolled in Summer Term at UBC? If you live outside of Metro Vancouver and all of your classes are being delivered online for the Summer 2022 Term 1/2 (May – August), you may be eligible for an U-Pass BC exemption. Deadline to apply is June 2, 2023

If you plan to apply for an exemption:

  • DO NOT pay the U-Pass BC fee in May
  • DO NOT load the May U-Pass BC onto your Compass card

Applications for exemptions do not guarantee approval. There is a limit on the applications approved for each exemption category. Apply for an exemption as soon as possible.

Visit the U-Pass BC program page to learn more.