Submitted by MA Student, Colin Sutherland, GGA Social Committee
Every autumn new graduate students and post-docs join our department, and the annual Whistler trip is one of a few events that invite current and new members of the UBC Geography community to chat, laugh and learn more about each other.
This year’s trip took place only a few weeks into the semester and had great attendance. Having three post-docs at the event was an added bonus.
Aided by incredible weather, we were able to take on a difficult 16km hike to the top of Rainbow Lake. Along the way we were able to take in some of BC’s fall colours, enjoy some breathtaking views of Rainbow Mountain, and talk about our plans for the upcoming semester. While the trail was long and muddy, I think everyone would agree that that it was worth the effort.
After the hike we returned to a local Whistler hostel to prepare an epic potluck dinner. The evening wrapped up with casual drinks, pool, and conversation.
I think this event is a really rare opportunity in our department for welcoming and meeting new students. It’s nice to have a low-stakes opportunity to chat about the work that takes place in both Physical and Human Geography. Considering our relatively large graduate student population, I think everyone on the social committee would love to see this event grow.
