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    August 1, 2025

    Kaylee Loken, Haskayne School of Business Student

    Meet Kaylee: My Most Memorable Experience as a UCalgary Student

    After graduating high school, I moved from Edmonton to Calgary to start my journey at UCalgary. Leaving home, even for a city just down the highway, felt like a big step out of my comfort zone. Luckily, residence move-in was a week before classes, which gave me time to settle in.


    I’ll never forget coming up to Rundle Hall and being greeted by cheering current students who helped carry my stuff, it was such a warm welcome. That first week was packed with events like bonfires, dodgeball night, and a silent disco, which made it easy to meet people. I met a group of friends that week, and we’ve stayed close ever since. We had “Family Dinner” every night at the Dining Centre (aka the “DC”), and the common areas on every floor of the residence buildings were perfect for studying and hanging out. Living on campus also made those 8 a.m. classes a breeze, I was out of bed and in class within 10 minutes!
    The University District quickly became one of my go-to hangout spots. It’s just a short walk away and packed with great student-friendly places, like a 24-hour McDonald’s, the Canadian Brewhouse, and The Banquet, which often hosts student nights. There are also grocery stores, a Staples, and even a movie theatre. In the winter, the area sets up a skating rink, and in warmer months, there are outdoor BBQ spaces. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, grab food, or catch up with friends. Hot tip for hot days: If you're looking to cool down in the summer, you have to try Village Ice Cream. It’s absolutely top-tier. Whether you’re into classic vanilla or adventurous seasonal flavours, it never disappoints.



    Throughout my time as a student at UCalgary, I’ve found many meaningful ways to get involved on campus. In my third year, I began volunteering with the Prospective Student Engagement team, where I welcomed visitors, led campus tours, and shared my student experience. That role allowed me to build strong connections with the Undergraduate Recruitment team, which eventually led to my current Co-op position as a Student Recruitment Ambassador.

    As a student at the Haskayne School of Business, one of the first things you’ll hear about at orientation is how important it is to get involved and network. That can feel a little overwhelming at first, especially when you’re brand new to university life. But case competitions are a great place to start. They give you the chance to apply what you're learning in class, challenge yourself, meet new people, and connect with professionals in the field. Oh, and there’s usually free food involved, too! One of my favourite memories was placing 3rd in the AIESEC Sustainable Innovation Challenge, with a team I had just met that week!

    One of my absolute favourite UCalgary traditions is the Crowchild Classic. It’s a hockey game between the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University, usually held in January at the Scotiabank Saddledome, the same arena the NHL’s Calgary Flames play in. The atmosphere is electric! The whole arena is packed with students cheering for their university's team, and the energy is unreal. It’s one of those events where school spirit is at an all-time high. Pro tip: get your tickets early, they sell out fast!

    I have grown, connected, and had many memorable experiences during my time at UCalgary, and my journey is far from over. Entering this campus can mark the start of an incredible journey, regardless of whether you're coming across the globe or just down the road. You never know where it might take you!