COMMUTER LIFE
Home Away from Home
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.
Commuter Perks
FREE FOOD
Free lunches and snacks are a favorite perk for our Commuter Students! Twice a month, our Commuter Host team serves up delicious, varied meals and snacks – from burrito bowls and sub sandwiches to ice cream sundaes. We also offer some gluten-free and dairy-free options for those with dietary restrictions. These gatherings are a great way to connect with fellow commuters, enjoy good food, and build strong community in the lounge!
THE BEST LOUNGE
Commuter Students have access to a spacious, bright lounge on the second floor of the Student Centre – a perfect spot to relax, recharge, and connect. The lounge features a full kitchen with a refrigerator and microwave, a dining area, cozy seating, snacks for purchase, and free coffee and tea. Lockers are also available for your use (just bring your own lock). Whether you’re looking to make new friends, build community, or simply unwind between classes, this is your home away from home. [Open Monday to Friday, 7:45am – 10:00pm]
COMMUTER HOSTS
Our team of Commuter Hosts is here to help make the Commuter Lounge a warm and welcoming place. They each take regular shifts throughout the week, keeping the space tidy, inviting, and ready for you to enjoy. Whether you have a question, need a hand, or are looking for a friendly face, they’re around to help! They’re also the ones behind all the fun events – like Christmas decorating, random contests, and of course, the lunches and snacks you love!
Welcome to Community
Chrissy Funk loves to mentor students. It’s her role to oversee Columbia’s commuter community and lead the commuter hosts. Get in touch with her by email.
Helpful Links
Looking for Off-Campus Housing?
Columbia has a Classifieds page where local landlords post rental listings. Another great option is local church classified listings (like this one: Northview Community Church Classifieds). Other options to try include Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji.
You or someone you know and trust should always view the unit in person (or at the very least via video call) before signing an agreement or paying any money.
CBC assumes no responsibility for agreements about off-campus housing made between students and landlords. We do not screen, inspect, warrant, or approve any landlord, student, or accommodation provided through the rental listing services listed on this page.
Know your renter rights
The Government of B.C. has information for anyone renting an apartment, suite, or room at its Residential tenancies web page.
Preventing fraud
Unfortunately, rental scams do exist. You can learn how to identify potential rental scams:
• Rental scams (RCMP)
Free Legal Advice for Renters
Below are two organizations that provide free legal assistance for renters covered under the Residential Tenancy Act, include dispute settlements between tenants and landlords.
Residential Tenancy Program
TRAC Legal Representation
A note about Columbia’s Residence Requirement
Single students under the age of 20 (by September 1) are required to reside in Columbia’s residence for one year (two semesters). You may chose to live off campus in your first year, provide any one of the following conditions applies:
- You are age 20 as of September 1
- You are married
- You have 60 or more credits complete and recognized by Columbia
Exemption from residence may be granted provided a student will be living with their parent(s) and/or an immediate family member who is at least 20 years of age as of September 1 and/or their legal guardian or if a student has extenuating medical circumstances that preclude them from living in residence. Applications for exemption can be filled out and should be submitted prior to August 1 for the fall semester.
Student Experiences
“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!”
—KIRSTYN & BRITTANY
“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!”
—BRAYDEN
“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.”