August arrives this week leaving just over one month until the start of the next semester at the University of British Columbia. The new semester marks a new beginning for many, be it a recent high-school grad, a college transfer, a professional returning for a Master's Degree, or even an entire household having relocated to the UBC area to support their young student's academic career in a better place. No matter the scenario, most of these individuals have already found their home in the UBC area and are using the month of August to settle in and integrate themselves within the community before September kicks in.

While much of the month ahead may be dedicated to unpacking and preparing for the semester (bargain hunting for class books, etc...) it's important to remember to stop and smell the flora - because it's still summer and you've arrived in one of the most lively communities in the city! That's right, as a UBC Realtor representing the area I want to remind everyone forget about counting the days until lecture hall 101 and to instead enjoy the events and gatherings taking place around UBC through the month of August.

Recommended UBC Events in August

1. ELI International Night: A Great Gatsby Soirée - Student Union Building Ballroom (August 2, 7PM)

This celebration of international culture leaps onto the stage of the SUB Ballroom this Friday evening. In addition to the early night performances and subsequent dance party the evening will be seasoned with booths allowing culinary talented students to present delectable dishes from their home country. This international mingle is not to be missed!

2. Paradise Lost? Contemporary Works from the Pacific - MOA & Satellite Gallery (Until September 29 @ MOA / Until August 31 @ Satellite Gallery)

UBC's Museum of Anthropology (MOA) is hosting Paradise Lost? Contemporary Works from the Pacific which features artisan works curated from islands such as Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and other islands you likely have seen on Survivor. The exhibit combines sculpture, painting, photography, and paintings to showcase the Pacific Islands. The purpose of the ongoing affair is to demonstrate insight that the Pacific Islands are more than tikis and Mai Tai's. MOA's Satellite gallery is holding an Opening Reception on August 6.

3. UBC Poetry Slam - Simply French Cafe (August 15, 7:30PM)

The fringe famed UBC Poetry Slam was touched on within this UBC real estate blog a few months ago and back by popular demand it makes an appearance here in our August UBC event recommendations. This casual event at Simply French Cafe on West 10th near UBC offers the perfect gathering where you can mingle amongst local talent and those simply looking for a hip atmosphere to chill on a warm summer evening.

4. UBC Farm Market - UBC Farm Point Grey Campus (August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 9AM - 1PM)

Every Saturday through August those with a penchant for locally sourced produce and associated goods will converge upon on of the most unique farmers markets in Vancouver. In addition to the produce there will be a bevy of baked goods, coffees, teas, prepared foods, and even artisan crafts. The UBC Farm Market offers a great place to spend a sunny Saturday morning/afternoon.

If youy're considering UBC Real Estate you may have some questions about Vancouver's secondary school system. Many parents looking to enrol their children in a Vancouver school frequently ask questions about BC's schooling system and the school catchment area. At the bottom of this post there is a short video from the Vancouver School Board that will answer 10 of the most frequently asked questions from parents.

Question 1: Where will my child go to school if the catchment school has no space?

Question 2: Will my child get a better education and improve his/her chances for university admission by attending a "better" school?

Question 3: How will my child graduate from Secondary School?

Question 4: Will my child graduate sooner if he/she can drop English Language Learning classes and take more regular classes?

Question 5: When can my child take Transitional or Regular English courses?

Question 6: Can my child still graduate from Secondary School if he/she is already 18 years old and is still in an English Language Learning program?

Question 7: How is Adult Education similar or different from the Secondary School Program?

Question 8: How will my child go to university? Do universities look at provincial exams?

Question 9: What other options are available for students after Secondary School?

Question 10: How can parents help English Language Learning students succeed in Secondary School?

In this video you will find the answers to the 10 most freqeuntly asked questons for parents enrolling their children in Vanocuver's Schools: