Hunter Student Commons offers new and inclusive spaces for students

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The brand-new Hunter Student Commons offers one-stop support helping current students to find the answers they need and new and future students to begin their UCalgary journey. In addition, lots of natural light and an open-concept design complement generous student spaces for studying, connecting with others and relaxing between classes.

“This new space is all about building a true and lasting connection with students. Thanks to Hunter Student Commons, we now have a purpose-designed, inviting environment for students to engage with support teams,” says Dr. Penny Werthner, interim provost and vice-president (academic).

An inclusive and welcoming place to gather

Since opening its doors at the start of the fall term, Hunter Student Commons has already become a home-away-from-home for students from all faculties and programs.

Breakout rooms and small nooks jut out from the main building like floating glass cubes, while each floor features ample spaces for students to gather, study or just relax.

Aligned with our commitment to inclusion, all washrooms in the building are gender-neutral. Instead of asking users to select a washroom based on their gender, signs simply declare this is a “washroom for everyone.” This change is part of efforts to make sure our spaces are inclusive of our diverse students’ needs.

“This new student complex is about creating spaces for connection, diversity and inclusion,” says Verity Turpin, vice-provost (student experience). “This building is all about putting the needs of our students first.”

Kareem Youssef says Hunter Student Commons is a welcome edition to student spaces on campus.

“I feel like this building was a necessary expansion because TFDL was getting very busy. It was necessary to provide more study space for students,” says Youssef, a second-year electrical engineering student.

“It is very easy to be productive here because there are no issues with disruptions. Students are very considerate of each other’s space and keeping noise down.”

Second-year chemistry student Olivia Paszkiewicz is also thrilled to benefit from these new student spaces.

“I think it is a really nice environment and a great space to study because TFDL can be quite busy. It is nice to have another place to go! I love the look!”

One-stop shop for student support  

Hunter Student Commons is designed to enhance the student experience from Day 1. Featuring the new home for the Registrar's Office, which includes Enrolment Services (previously housed in MacKimmie Tower), the second floor of the new building is now a single point to access the network of student services on campus.

“We are committed to listening to our students and their emerging needs. This central area for support is a reflection of how we continue to respond to student input and feedback,” says Turpin.

“We are thrilled to be able to welcome both new and returning students back to the campus this fall and Hunter Student Commons is a wonderful space for our students to connect with our services, as well as each other.”

When it comes to services, students can now be guided through all UCalgary has to offer by simply heading to the second floor of Hunter Student Commons where they can find information on tuition and fees, course registration, applications, convocation, and more.

“Our one-stop location is going to allow us to develop and deepen relationships with students so that we can provide the best advice and support to meet their needs,” says Dr. Amy Dambrowitz, PhD, UCalgary’s registrar.

“From their first admissions letter to crossing the stage at convocation, we want to be there to celebrate our students’ success. This building helps us make that possible.”

Introducing the Prospective Student Hub

Visiting UCalgary campus for the first time can feel overwhelming. Future students and their families often wonder where to start, or who to ask questions about admission. With the introduction of the Prospective Student Hub, Hunter Student Commons aims to make it easier for those considering choosing UCalgary.

Also located on the second floor, the new Prospective Student Hub includes a spacious tour room and access to the UCalgary recruitment team. There will also be Indigenous artwork by Blackfoot artist and current student Sikapinakii Low Horn.

“First impressions are everything. This building is a welcoming front door encouraging prospective students to choose UCalgary as their place to start something,” says Dambrowitz.

“We can’t wait to meet future generations of UCalgary alumni here.”