Documentation:Science Co-op/Summerland, BC
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Helpful Tips For Co-op Students Going to Summerland, BC
Return to: UBC Science Co-op
Purpose: This document was created to help you prepare the necessary documents and funds BEFORE your departure to Summerland.
This information may help to prevent some difficulties with paperwork and make it an easier transition for you.
Introduction
Summerland is a great place for anyone that likes a tight-knit, small town lifestyle.
There are some nice beaches on Okanagan Lake and walking trails all around town. The Okanagan offers lots of hiking, cycling, and all sorts of other recreational activities.
Finances
The way payroll is organized at PARC-Summerland means that students may have to wait up to four weeks before receiving their first pay cheque.
- You may need to round up enough money to cover the first two months of rent and living expenses for the first month.
Housing
Most students working at the Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre (PARC) live in Summerland, but there are several other viable options to suit a variety of lifestyles.
- Penticton is a 10 minute drive south of Summerland. It's a good choice for students who prefer access to a wider variety of shopping and services, but want to live close to work.
- Summerland and Peachland (15 minute drive north of Summerland) are both smaller cities, but have lots to offer if you have the drive to get out and explore them.
- Kelowna is the largest city in the Okanagan and provides a totally urban setting for those who prefer it. However, the drive to and from Summerland can take anywhere from 45 to 75 minutes depending on traffic.
- Rental suites and rooms are listed online and in local papers, however there are also a number of units advertised on a bulletin board in the cafeteria at PARC.
- Ask your supervisor to check it out.
Transportation
- There is no public transit in the city of Summerland.
It's best to have a vehicle, but some students go without by cycling to work or arranging rides from other students and employees.
- There is also no regional transit between Penticton, Summerland, and Kelowna.
NOTE: If you bring a car to Summerland for a winter co-op term, be prepared to buy some winter tires.
The roads can get pretty icy and you may find yourself stranded if you don't have appropriate treads.