Sunny Days: 5 Things You Can Do At UBC

Posted on April 1, 2016 by margaretelle

Hope everyone is holding up, I can’t believe the term is almost over already and finals are just around the corner AHHHHHHHHH! This month has flown by as I’ve been busy with school (of course, who isn’t?), work, and volunteering.

It’s been super rainy these past couple of months so I’m glad the sun finally decided to show up! With exams, papers, projects, and assignments bombarding you as we reach the end of this school year, it’s important to remember to take a breather and this surprisingly sunny Vancouver weather should help! Here are 5 things to do at UBC on a sunny Vancouver day:

Photography

If you’re into taking pictures, sunny weather makes great lighting! You don’t need a DSLR camera or anything like that to capture the nice scenery on campus. The mountains and the cherry blossom trees on campus make great photo-ops (especially for Instagram). You can even have a photoshoot with your friends!

Grab Some Froyo With Friends

I love frozen yogurt, especially on a sunny day. With 2 Qoola locations on campus this makes it easy to satisfy my froyo cravings. If you’re feeling like getting away from campus (but not too far), there’s a Menchie’s location at Wesbrook Village (the 41 bus can take you there).

Go To The Beach

Feeling beachy? Wreck Beach is right on campus or you can check out Spanish Banks Beach (a bit further from the main campus). Remember to slather on that sunscreen and wear your shades.

Visit the Nitobe Japanese Memorial Garden

A lovely garden located right on campus beside the Asian Centre. It’s full of cherry blossom trees and is perfect for a spring stroll on a sunny day. I’ve never actually been here but it’s on my bucket list!

Sit On The Grass

While walking around on campus this week I’ve seen plenty of people suntanning on the vast amounts grass we have at UBC. Feel free to join them and soak in that vitamin D!

Hope everyone survives this last bit of the school year! Good luck on your exams, papers, projects!

Stop Procrastinating

Posted on February 26, 2016 by margaretelle

I feel like university is flying by, we have a bit more than a month before finals season begins. And reading break went by way too fastI can’t believe I’m almost done my second year at UBC.

Procrastination tends to get worse for me as we get further into the school year. Today I thought I would give some tips on preventing procrastination to get you through this last half of the term. Here are some things that work for me:

Self Control or Cold Turkey

Ever since starting university, I’ve had to rely more and more on the internet and my laptop. Having distracting websites like Tumblr, Youtube, and Facebook just a few clicks away while I’m trying to do my school work has caused me to procrastinate even more. Self Control (for Mac) and Cold Turkey (for PC) are apps that can block websites that distract you for any amount of time you want, allowing you to focus on your work. Self Control has helped me a lot this term as most of my classes rely heavily on using computers and the internet.

Read something enjoyable

When I know I have to read a chapter in a textbook or a long article, I try to warm up my brain for reading by reading something I find interesting such as a discussion on Reddit, a blog post, an interesting article, or a chapter in a novel. I find this gets my brain into a “reading mode”.

Out of sight, out of mind

If you don’t need your phone for school work, get it out of your field of vision. I usually put my phone behind me where I can’t see it. I’m less tempted to check on it if I can’t see it.

Treat Yoself

Reward yourself by taking breaks after you’ve accomplished tasks. For example take breaks after reading 10 pages, writing a page for your paper, finishing half of your assignment, etc. This can help motivate you to finish tasks, just make sure these breaks don’t go too long.

Good luck with all your studying, assignments, papers, and projects!

Staying Awake

Posted on January 30, 2016 by margaretelle

Hey y’all, hope your first month of second term hasn’t been terrible. I’m pretty tired already and the mid term season just started (I’m supposed to be studying right now but I thought I would take a break lol). The good news is… READING WEEK IS SOON!

So lately I’ve been finding myself dozing off in lectures. I don’t know if it’s because those courses are boring or I’m just really tired, or both.

I usually try to get 7-8 hours of sleep on the nights before I have class but it hasn’t been working .Maybe commuting for an hour to school takes a lot of energy out of me. And some of those seats in the lecture theatres are soooo comfy I can’t help it! But I know a lot university students can barely get 5-6 hours of sleep and it sucks. Getting enough sleep can be unrealistic some nights.

This past week I’ve been trying my best to stay awake during my lectures, so here are a couple of tips I came up with on staying awake during lectures:

Caffeine

Everyone says this. I’ve even gotten Awake caffeinated chocolate bars from the grocery store to try to stay awake and they actually work. Starbucks is my favourite place to get my dose of energy. I usually go for a mocha (white chocolate mocha or the Peppermint Mocha during the holiday season), a latte (iced vanilla latte or green tea latte), or a caramel machiatto. If you really hate the taste of caffeine, try one of their refreshers (I like the Berry Hibiscus one the best).
Tim Hortons doesn’t work as well for me but it’s much more affordable and you can treat yourself to timbits or a donut too if you want.
Uppercase in the Nest – I’ve only tried the Chocolate Mint Mocha but it was super yummy and it kept me awake during my afternoon lectures!
Ordering caffeinated tea at these locations should keep you awake just as well!
Don’t want to buy a drink on campus? Bring your own in a thermos to save money!
Drinks in general keep me awake actually. I’ve tried drinking bubble tea from the Village and it kept me awake during my lectures. Sometimes when I’m too lazy to get a drink I just drink water to keep me awake.

Snacks

Something to munch on during a lecture should keep you awake when you feel like you’re starting to doze off. Try a granola bar, fruit, crackers, any kind of snack. Maybe even eat your lunch if you didn’t have time to eat before class.

Partner in Crime

Ask your friend(s) to nudge you if they catch you dozing off during the lecture. I used to do this with my friend last year in EOSC 116, we would both try to keep each other awake and it worked most of the time.

IF ALL ELSE FAILS, go on your phone/browse the internet on your laptop

I know, this is bad but if your prof doesn’t have a no electronics policy, go on your phone or browse the internet on your laptop for a few seconds just to check your email or social media. Looking at something interesting can keep you awake during your lecture, just don’t get carried away.

Good luck during mid-term season!

End of the Year (2015)

Posted on December 31, 2015 by margaretelle

Hi everyone! Hope everyone is having a relaxing winter break! I finished exams pretty early this year but the downside of that was having them crammed together in 3 days, but I survived! I can’t believe how quickly this winter break has gone by, it’s almost over 🙁 and 2015 flashed by just as quickly!

I have decided to do a small reflection post of some my thoughts/things I’ve learned this year. I have to say this year was not easy, in fact ever since I started university back in September 2014 things haven’t always been smooth sailing. But challenges usually come with valuable lessons learned!

Don’t worry about what other people are doing, focus on yourself. We live in a world where people can easily brag on social media about their success and how great their lives are. If you’re going through a tough time, avoid social media networks if it doesn’t make you feel better.
Eat yummy food, binge watch that show, spend the whole day playing video games, hang out with your friends, listen to your favourite songs on repeat, go on a hike, buy that shirt you’ve been eyeing. Do things that make you happy. Treat yo self every now and then, don’t forget about your mental health.
Get as much sleep as you can. Sleep is important
I will always miss Target Canada. Going to the mall just isn’t the same as it was when there was a Target at Metrotown.
If Justin Bieber can make a comeback, you can too
If One Direction fans can get through March 2015, you can do anything

Happy New Year, hope 2016 is great for everyone! I leave you with this video of Troy and Gabriella singing “Start of Something New” from High School Musical to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of when Troy and Gabriella met.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6EOUaWscrE

5 Things I Like To Do To De-Stress

Posted on November 30, 2015 by margaretelle

Hello there! Yes I know it’s been a while since I last posted. School started getting really busy for me during October and November and I’ve been balancing a part-time job at the same time. I have finally made time to squeeze in a little post before I finish off my project for Comm 280 (it’s a pretty fun class by the way, I highly recommend it). I CAN’T WAIT for Winter Break, and the holidays are almost here I can smell it. But unfortunately when December comes that also means it’s finals season.

I’ve created a list of things I like to do to de-stress while studying, writing papers, doing projects, etc.

But first, here’s a link to study places on campus if you plan to do your studying/homework at school.

Also check out the Wellness Centre and Coaches Corner (both inside Irving K. Barber Learning Centre) for some freebies this week!

Here’s my list, hope you find this helpful and don’t forget about your mental health!

1.Drinking cup of tea, hot chocolate, or a yummy beverage from Starbucks (like their Peppermint Mocha) always comforts my stomach while I do school work. It also keeps me awake because let’s be honest, school can get REALLY boring.

2. Watching a TV episode or a couple of YouTube videos when I get tired or feel overwhelmed from studying or writing an essay always helps me clear my mind and for a bit before I get back into my school work. Just remember to not over watch (no binge watching!)
3. Painting birdhouses is a new hobby I started last spring. I know it’s very random, but I find painting helps calm my nerves! For under $10 I bought a small birdhouse from Michaels craft store, a couple of acrylic paints, and a small set of paint brushes. Just painting in general should help you de-stress, you could even just get a colouring book or paint your nails!

4. Listening music. Your favourite tunes will always make you feel better! I like to use Spotify sometimes for their playlists and I like how it helps me discover new music.

5. Baking. I find baking is fun and really soothing for me, and you’ll have something to eat afterwards! It doesn’t have to be from scratch it can just be a mix from a box. Or even those Pillsbury cinnamon buns get me excited!

Good luck on all your finals, projects, and papers everyone! Keep calm and stay strong!

Things to Put in Your Backpack – Commuter Student Edition

Posted on October 1, 2015 by margaretelle

HAPPY OCTOBER, as I am writing this blog post I’ve got Pumpkin Spice cookies sitting in the oven. If you read my posts from last year then you know that Fall is one of my favourite seasons.

Since I’ve been commuting for over a year now I thought I’d put together a list of things I like to keep in my backpack (besides your class notes and stuff like that). Hope you find this helpful!

The Essentials

Umbrella – This is crucial because it rains a lot in Vancouver (which explains why people call it Raincouver) and often it rains unexpectedly. I highly recommend keeping a small, light umbrella in your bag just in case. Or you can use that new on campus umbrella-share service called Umbracity that we just got an email about 🙂
Water Bottle – Being parched and paying for expensive bottled water isn’t fun. Try keeping a reusable water bottle in your backpack, you won’t only help the planet, but you will keep hydrated and save some money for important things (like coffee).
Hand Sanitizer – No one wants to be sick during midterm season. Sometimes you may want to eat a snack on the bus but your hands might be super germy from touching seats, handrails, etc. on the bus. I like to keep a hand sanitizer in my backpack to prevent myself from getting sick.
Tissue Paper – I always carry around a travel pack of Kleenex with me. Tissues are great to have in your backpack because you might sneeze, maybe you want to wipe your face or mouth, or maybe you need to wipe your tears.
SNACKS – I seem to always get hungry after school and you probably do too. But if your commute usually takes over an hour (like mine does) and it’s not healthy to starve yourself for that long. Even just a granola bar or cookie can help you stop the growl in your stomach for a bit.
Earphones/Headphones – Once I forgot to put my earphones back into my backpack and I cried from boredom during the whole bus ride (just kidding I didn’t actually cry). Music is great for keeping you occupied and relaxed if you don’t have cellphone data or if you are bored of the games on your phone.
A book – If you can read on moving vehicles without getting dizzy, this is a good way to keep you entertained
A planner/agenda – An awesome way to stay on top of those deadlines and keep organized (wow look at this pretty picture I found on Google)
Cash – Just in case you need to purchase something

Random things – you don’t necessarily need these but I just like to keep these in my backpack

Hand Cream – I’m all about moisturizing my hands because I like them to stay soft. As well I find they get cracked when the weather gets cooler (aka during the Fall time). Keeping a small travel sized hand cream in your backpack is great for preventing bloody, cracked hands.
Lip Balm/Chapstick – I hate it when my lips get chapped
A light laptop – Heavy laptops can make your bag way too heavy and cause back problems. If you can, purchase a light laptop or a tablet.
Post-it notes/sticky notes– You never know! And sometimes they give them out for free around campus!
A reusable shopping bag – I just like to have one of these in my back just in case I need to carry stuff I don’t want to put in my backpack.

And most importantly do not forget your U-Pass and UBC ID!

Back at UBC… First Year vs. Second Year

Posted on September 15, 2015 by margaretelle

Hello everyone! It’s been a while since I’ve posted! My summer was pretty productive as I got a part-time job. I also haven’t been on campus in months, but September came in a flash. My first couple of weeks of school have been fine, I’m just getting used to being back at school since I had 4 months off. I have to admit that things aren’t as exciting as they were in first year, however I do like the comfort of being more familiar with life at UBC. And I’m always thankful that I get to call UBC’s beautiful campus my school 🙂

Some things that are different this year compared to last year

I got to sleep in on Imagine Day and I had the opportunity walk around and get a good look at the clubs at Imagine Day (and get some free swag)

I haven’t gotten lost yet
My classes don’t start as early as last year and I also end earlier too. As a result, I don’t have very long breaks like I did last year (I have a 30 min break) so I get a bit hungry sometimes but I always remember to pack snacks!
I’m more willing to join clubs. Last year I felt too lazy/intimidated to join clubs but this year I plan to join at least 1 club!
The new sub (the Nest) has finally opened and it’s beautiful
And of course, I’m taking different classes

Other than that my life is mostly the same, I’m still a commuter student and I still live in Burnaby. Sorry this post isn’t that interesting, my life hasn’t been very exciting these past couple of weeks. But I look forward to posting more often again now that the school year has begun! I am also super excited for sweater weather, I CAN FEEL IT COMING!

Finished First Year and Some Things I Learned

Posted on May 5, 2015 by margaretelle

My first year at UBC went by REALLY quickly it’s kind of sad. I can’t believe it’s over already, it feels like just yesterday I was at Imagine Day. But I’m super happy that SUMMER IS HERE

Here is a list of a few of things I’ve learned this year:

Try to get stuff done on the bus if you have a long commute
Reading, studying, checking emails and social media, or just sleeping (maybe even eating) is a great way to put your time to use. But if you don’t feel like doing anything school related just relax and use that time as mental break because your mental well-being is important.

Ensure your backpack is as light as possible
Walking around with a heavy backpack all day sucks. I once purchased 3 textbooks in one day and forgot to bring a reusable shopping bag to carry them. So I had to put them all in my backpack and suffered from back pain for a week. If possible, try to carry as little as possible in your backpack or bring a reusable shopping bag to carry some stuff in. Avoid things like heavy binders and if you’re looking for a new laptop try to find one that is lightweight if you have the option.

Bring snacks if you have a long day
Snacks can help you stay awake in class and you won’t be distracted by your growling stomach.

Wear comfortable shoes
If you know you’ll be doing lots of walking on campus (very common) try to find shoes with good support that won’t hurt your feet when walking long distances. It’s extremely beneficial to have comfy shoes when you’re running late for class and trying to speed walk.

Things I Like To Wear For An Exam

Posted on March 30, 2015 by margaretelle

FINALS ARE ALMOST HERE AHHHH! This month has gone by REALLY quickly!

I don’t know about you but whenever I have an exam or midterm I like to dress for comfort (also because I’m usually super tired). Here is a list of things I usually include in my “exam attire”. Hope you find this helpful!

Hoodie or Sweatshirt – They’re so soft and warm and you can take it off if it gets too warm and wear a t-shirt or tank top underneath. They’re also easy to match!

Sweatpants/Joggers or Leggings – When I’m tired, my legs are tired. I like to wear these because it can get really uncomfortable when you’re sitting in super tight skinny jeans for at least 2.5+ hours straight

Shoes – Can’t forget to wear shoes! It really depends on the weather for me but lately I’ve been loving runners or sneakers. They’re perfect for those days when you just want your feet to feel light and fluffy

Hair Tie – Sometimes your long hair just gets in the way so I always bring a hair tie just in case my hair annoys me during an exam. Then I can quickly tie it up into a pony tail or a bun

Snacks & Water Bottle – This isn’t a part of my “exam attire” but I usually like to bring a couple of snacks like a granola bar in case I get hungry during the exam. I ALWAYS bring water though because it’s good to keep hydrated (and sometimes my mouth gets really dry when I’m nervous)

Good luck to all of you on your exams, projects, papers, etc!

My Typical School Day

Posted on February 28, 2015 by margaretelle

6:45am: Force myself to get out of bed and start getting ready for school. Why did I choose a class that starts at 9am? Tip: Don’t do this unless you get off early in the day or you live on campus

7:35am: Run out the door to catch my bus. I’m ready for my 1hour+ commute due to Rush Hour

8:45am-8:50ish: Speed walk to class from the UBC bus loop

9:00am-12:50pm: Yay sitting in lectures trying to stay awake and running around from building to building

1:00pm-4:00pm: A lovely 3 hour break where I eat, attempt to do homework, attempt to study, and get all my internet procrastinating done so I’ll procrastinate less when I get home. Usually I grab a drink from Starbucks or Tim Hortons in order to stay awake in my last class

4:50pm: FREE AT LAST! I quickly walk to the bus loop

6:00pm: Home Sweet Home

9:00pm: After eating dinner, showering, and chilling; I attempt to study and do some homework

11:00pm: Back to the internet

11:30pm: Goodnight!

Better Than Words

Story of My Life