Frequently Asked Questions

Questions you may have before you register for the spark

When is the Spark 2023?

The Spark 2023 is on Friday, September 8 and Saturday, September 9.

Who is invited to The Spark?

Any Sauder student who was admitted into the BCom program in 2023 is invited to attend The Spark. This includes first-year students, students who transferred from another faculty at UBC, and students who transferred from another institution.

How much do we need to pay? What do we get?

The registration fee is $40.00 + $2.00 (5% GST). Your registration fee allows us to give you a fully packed weekend - an experience you'll remember. You will be provided with snacks, lunch, and dinner throughout the event, a snazzy t-shirt, Sauder branded SWAG, a ticket to a super fun night event, and two days of unforgettable memories!

Is there any financial assistance available for students?

The Spark is committed to being accessible and inclusive so that everyone can participate. If you need financial assistance, please email orientations@sauder.ubc.ca.

When does registration open and close?

Online registration is closed.

Questions you may have after registering for the spark

What will I be doing at The Spark?

Throughout the two-day event, you will partake in many social activities alongside your teammates. Some of the activities that happen are: fun games that encourage teamwork and communication, opening and closing ceremonies to energize and inspire you for your time at Sauder, quality time with your team so you can talk all things university, and a super fun night event that will wrap up The Spark on your last day.

Who will I be spending the weekend with?

You will be spending the weekend with your peers and senior Sauder students who have been in your position not long ago.

Your Spark team will be created based on your class cohort (shared classes and timetables).

This means that you will be able to meet and bond with the students who will be taking the same classes and sections as you!

After I register, will I get contacted during the summer?

We will be emailing you from orientations@sauder.ubc.ca so make sure you put us on your safe senders list! You can also expect to hear from your Spark leaders in late August. They will check in by email and subsequently Facebook and make sure you know what to expect and what to bring.

What should I bring and what should I wear to The Spark?

Please come prepared with your comfortable shoes/clothes, cellphone, any personal medication if needed (i.e. inhaler, epipen), maybe a small amount of money ($10-$30) and ENERGY! Keep an eye out on the weather, you may want to bring a rain jacket if it calls for it since most of the games occur outside. This year, there will be no coat check or storage for belongings, so only bring what is necessary and leave valuables at home. As for clothing, you will be moving around and playing games during The Spark, so get yourself comfy!

What if I can no longer attend The Spark after I registered?

Refunds can only be made if you let us know you are not able to attend. Please email orientations@sauder.ubc.ca if you need to request to cancel your registration and get your refund.

Questions regarding covid-19

What are the COVID-19 protocols?

Your health and safety are our top priority. This year, we are planning a fun and safe in-person experience. The Spark is run by Sauder staff and senior student leaders who will ensure that all activities and programming will follow the latest BC Provincial Health Guidelines. For more information about UBC’s response to COVID-19, please visit https://covid19.ubc.ca/.

Do I have to be fully vaccinated to attend The Spark?

You do not have to be fully vaccinated to attend The Spark. However, vaccinations are highly encouraged as they help keep our community safe. For more information about BC’s response to COVID-19, visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/response. For more information about UBC’s response to COVID-19, please visit https://covid19.ubc.ca/.