Commuter Life
You Won't Go Unnoticed Here
“I am leaving Columbia with deep-rooted friendships.”
Every year about half of our students commute to campus — some from just next door and some from North Van or Chilliwack. What we hear over and over from our commuter students is that Columbia can be a home away from home, especially when you take the time to hang out on campus before, between, and after classes. You’ll meet incredible people and enjoy plenty of opportunities to engage in the encouraging, Christ-centered community that is so central to the Columbia experience.
Home Away from Home
Commuter Perks
FREE FOOD
Commuter Lunches and Snacks happen twice a month — a delicious spread prepared just for you and your fellow commuters. Bonus: Faculty like to hang out at these lunches, so you’ll have a chance to get to know them better. These lunches are so great we sometimes catch residents trying to sneak in!
THE BEST LOUNGE
Commuters have access to a big, bright lounge on the second floor of the Student Centre. There’s a full kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, dining space, a comfy lounge to relax in, snacks for purchase, free coffee & tea, and study space. You’ll also get your own locker to store your stuff (just bring your own lock). It is the perfect place to make friends, build relationships and become a part of the Columbia community. [Open Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM]
COMMUTER HOSTS
Our team of Commuter Hosts will be looking out for you. There’s always a Commuter Host on duty in the Lounge, and their role is to keep everything comfy and inviting for commuters. They also plan commuter events throughout the semester (think potlucks, coffee house with live music, and fun contests).
Commuter Experiences
Meet Kirstyn & Brittany
“Being a part of the Columbia community has been a HUGE blessing! When you’re a commuter, it can be tempting to head off-campus after class without really engaging, so from two commuters — here are some tips and stories about getting involved!”
Meet Brayden
“Being a commuter has been a great opportunity to participate in the CBC community while also maintaining a home and family life away from the school. I have the freedom to be on campus for events or go home for a bit of peace and quiet to myself. If managed well, commuter life is the best of both worlds!”
Meet Laura
“Commuter life is great at CBC; not only do you get to come to school to learn and meet great people, you also gain another home away from home. Plus the commuter lounge is a great place to relax and connect with other students who may be on a similar path as you.”
Commuter Info
Welcome To Community
Your Commuter Director is Chrissy Funk. She loves to mentor students. It’s her role to oversee Columbia’s commuter community and lead the commuter hosts. Get in touch by email.
Good To Know
Columbia offers an Off-campus Housing Board where local landlords post rental listings. Another great option is local church classified listings (like this one: Northview Community Church Classifieds.) Also try Craigslist and Kijiji.
