Vancouverite. What an odd word. I can’t help but think that it sounds too much like ‘meteorite,’ which to me seems quite fitting. Vancouver, like a meteor, has always seemed distant and a little mysterious. Funny to think that the place I called home not long ago is now a five-hour plane ride and halfway across the country. But along with the changing of the seasons comes a drastic change in lifestyle, as we all now shift into arguably the most dynamic and stimulating times of our lives. We have finally arrived, at the University of British Columbia, and with fists up in celebration and voices roaring in excitement, we embrace all that UBC have to offer! …But wait a second. What does UBC have to offer? What even is there to do in Vancouver? Some say the beaches are worth visiting, while others issue silly warnings about beaches. Others simply say to ‘get involved,’ as if that hasn’t already been relentlessly drilled into the heads of youths. As a second year student – a BC resident for all of nine cumulative months who has finally just begun to understand how to properly use Translink – I am only able to share so much about improving your experience at UBC Vancouver. Above all, recognize that unlike anywhere you have previously studied or lived, UBC is a place where apathy is no longer recognized as desirable – being apathetic is not the way to social acceptance or overall fulfillment. Intentionally showing a disinterest in school and community-run events and clubs only demonstrates a fear of others’ perception of you. At least, such was my train of thought in the beginning of freshman year. Whether sooner or later, it will become apparent that the most rewarding experiences come from joining a committee and becoming overly passionate towards it. Take part in activities you would normally never even consider, such as festive holidays outside of your own culture or UBC REC or UBC Calendar events. Hop on a bus and explore the Vancouver area on a whim with the person you just met in class. Explore in all forms of the word. To put it in cliché terms, the world is your oyster. Just don’t hesitate to participate or invest yourself fully for a fear of your appearance; allow your passions to shape who you become. That’s what being a Vancouverite is all about.