Commuting to campus doesn’t mean missing out. At UBC Arts, we can be your home away from home.
Some students who take transit to campus share their own tips about what they eat and do between classes, organized by how much time you’ve actually got.
Got 15–30 minutes?
If your classes are Arts-heavy, you don’t need to trek across campus for a snack or quick breather. This is your closest cluster for nearby study spaces, food and coffee, all inside the Buchanan/Iona radius.
- “The Arts Undergraduate Society often gives out free things, whether exam care packages and little pop-ups throughout the year. That definitely helped me out when I was feeling overwhelmed.” – Iman T., BFA’28 Visual Art + Master of Management
Got a 1–2 hour gap?
Long stretch between lectures? The corridor between Irving K. Barber Learning Centre (IKBLC) and the Koerner Library covers study spaces, student resources, and some breathing room without leaving the block.
- “The UBC library has free online movies! Helpful if you want to take a break and recharge.” – Angelina S., BA’27 Interdisciplinary Studies
Free afternoon (or just done for the day)? Touch grass, literally.
Got a longer break or you’re squeezing in an activity before your commute home? These spots make the detour worth it and they’re free to UBC students.
- “Experiencing walking to Wreck Beach and back while still having a full day of classes to attend.” – Macy L., Psychology
- “If you have spaces in between classes, fill that time up with something fun too, like volunteering or club activities. It helps you feel less like a zombie on campus before heading onto your ride home.” – Keiran H., BA’27 Geography
- “You must go to MOA! Super underrated gallery and a great place to explore with friends.” – Kristina B., BA’29 International Relations and Psychology + Master of Management
Last stop before transit: The Nest
The building with most of your basic needs: eat, heat up lunch, and if you’re lucky, catch a free event without having to plan. Plus, it’s on your way to the bus loop!
“There are a lot of microwaves in the nest, on almost every floor, which I’ve utilized many times! Additionally, there are some microwaves in the Sauder building which is in the center of campus, so popping in there to easily microwave your food is nice.” – Lynn C., BA’28 International Relations
