Highlighted in the most aesthetically pleasing ways, the cedar courtyard never fails to satisfy the wandering, flustered student on their way to a class. The area acts as a break from the reality of tests and deadlines, solely tending to the underlying significance of tranquility and “taking it easy.” The imperfect, perfect balance between all things natural and man-made projects.

As described in the last post, the library offers a space where students can take time to hone in on what they want to study on the side of their busy, busy schedules. In the picture, there are musicians on the wall that look like they’ve been there for a long time. So, why not change up the scene a little bit? What if we include art from individuals in the campus, would that be possible? Displaying the art that the students themselves create is something that I wish I saw a little glimpse of everyday. Art is inspiring in many which ways, so if there were possible, I think we should try it some day.

As a rookie commuter that uses a bike to get to campus, I can honestly say that those hills to get there are no easy task. As I push forward on those pedals towards the peak of the hill, I notice professors zoom past like it’s a walk in the park. So when I see them taking no break to catch their breath, I try to mimic their persistence. I fight till I’m at the top and when I’m finally there, well, I’m drenched in my own sweat. Despite the smell, I can’t help but feel like I can bounce off walls. This energy going into Cap is extremely beneficial as it adds a good start to a long day of studying and undivided attention.

The path that leads to the library, I find, is one of the most commonly used routes for students on campus. Not only does it have a floor for those that want to collaborate with their peers and eat their food, but also a floor that does not permit any talking at all. It is this second floor of the library that is such a rarity to physically be in. A place where everyone’s the same in the sense that we are all going to try to focus quietly on our studies without the noise that drowns our learning at times.

With an emphasis on community, Cap also provides an open courtyard for individuals of all backgrounds, even for those that use other methods of coping (like smoking) with the stressors of post secondary education. Despite harmful effects of such methods, being sensitive is extremely important in gaining more understanding as to what specific resources can and/or should be offered to students to find alternate ways of coping with their stressors. Specifically, I appreciate the de-stress week Cap offers its students during finals as it strikes us as a reminder that standardized tests aren’t and shouldn’t be the centre of our lives.

Another heavily influential aspect Cap grants is the addition of multiple spaces that support connection amongst its students like the legendary Capilano Student Union. Welcomed with its exemplary student administration and naturally serene atmosphere, the CSU reminds me of my room. Perhaps it’s an odd comparison, but the way it reflects a secure and trusting environment makes a statement all the while offering platforms to expand one’s thinking and ideas.

Taken in the Maple building on the campus, the encouragement of sharing and utilizing resources is highly important. Seeing the mugs displayed in the picture cleaned and set out to dry captures the dedication students make to keeping our resources available for anyone to use. Despite this little bit of optimism in observation of dedication, in the times that I have been in areas where materials are shared amongst students the outcome does not always turn out in this manner. This raises a question of what else we, as a collective, can do to further encourage acts of responsibility throughout the week.

Among the Hidden. While walking along one of the many routes to different buildings, my friend and I came across this peculiar and enticing womanly figure. Almost surprised to see us, we wondered what this statue was here for and why they had it hidden amongst the shrubbery. Looking around her, we failed to notice any information that answered our curiosities. Having not taken this route would have meant not witnessing the woman of surprise and in acknowledgement of her existence, we came to a consensus that she deserved the recognition along with the sculptor. As curious individuals, we all stumble upon a vast number of hidden treasures that are naturally supported with questions. Taking a few minutes out of a day to reflect upon the journey of anything or anyone can allow for a deeper appreciation of our own journey in an abundance of ways.

Stairway to Discovery. Following through with the theme of taking on a newfound adventure, the routes at Cap are nothing short of brilliant. Brilliant in the sense that it’s campus is naturally beautiful, complimenting its architecture with the forest and highlighting the forest with its architecture. Though the skies were clear, the birds were chirping and the sun was showing us how bright it could be, the weather could express itself in anyway imaginable and the campus would still be viewed as stunning. I believe that the environment conditions are just as significant as educational opportunities. Cap’s ability to harmonize with its surrounds is truly an art.

Though there may be controversy about whether or not modern education sets students up for success in terms of occupation and meeting future goals, anyone who takes the time to fill out that application form for post secondary is ,therefore, signing up for the next endeavor. In relation to the bumble bees that collect pollen, we both travel relentlessly, covering great distances in search of our opportunities that give us what we need. Though there may be controversy about whether or not modern education sets students up for success in terms of occupation and meeting future goals, those who take the time to fill out that application form for higher education are consciously signing up for their next endeavour towards the limitless accumulation of knowledge and wisdom. This photo was taken in Cap’s garden on a beautiful sunny day. In relation to the bumble bee that was collecting pollen at the time, students alike continue to travel relentlessly, covering great distances in search of our opportunities that allow us to satisfy our ambition to learn.