New to UBC Connections Program launches in November

Every year, we have hundreds of new staff and faculty joining UBC, a workplace of over 18,000 people. And while each person's onboarding experience is unique, there’s always been a common thread in our new hire feedback – the need for more opportunities to connect with others in the UBC community.  

This is why we’re excited to be launching a pilot program for new faculty and staff to connect with other new hires across the university.  

What is the New to UBC Connections Program? 

The New to UBC Connections pilot program is a self-directed, cohort-based program that will run from November 2023 to May 2024.  

Based on your responses to an intake survey form, you will be matched into groups of 4-5 people. This is a great way to get connected to people outside of your team or department who are interested in exploring similar activities and events at UBC.  

Program participants will have access to the New to UBC Connections Canvas course, which provides suggestions for activities and events to participate in as a group based on areas of interest, such as arts and culture; nature and wellbeing; recreation and health, etc.  

Throughout the six months, group members will have the flexibility to decide how often to meet (typically once every 4-8 weeks) and the type of activities you engage in.

The program will conclude with a final networking event for all of the program participants. 

Who is this program for?  

This pilot program is open to the following faculty and staff: 

• who are within their first year of being hired at UBC
• must be in roles with a term length of at least six months in order to participate in the full duration of the program  
• their primary work location is associated with the Vancouver campus or other learning sites associated with the Vancouver campus; cohorts will be matched based on location. A pilot program at the Okanagan campus is currently under development.

What will you get out of this program? 

After engaging with the program, you will: 

• Build connections and community with new faculty and staff across campus
• Expand your network at UBC to foster potential collaborations at work
• Experience UBC's culture, events, activities and places of interest
• Recognize the value of the diverse skills, experiences and perspectives of UBC’s community 

How do you sign up?  

UPDATE: The New to UBC Connections pilot program for 2023-2024 is now at full capacity. Thank you to all those who have expressed interest. Please check back in mid-2024 for information on next year's cohort intake. 

If you have any questions, please reach out to workplace.orientations@ubc.ca.