“Wait, Where’s My Lecture?”: Navigating Campus Like a Pro
Written by: Raha Farrokh, PhD candidate in Comparative Literature & Culture
Photo by: Western Communications
Because wandering with Google Maps open doesn’t have to be your whole personality this fall.
If your first week on campus feels like a mix of a scavenger hunt and a workout challenge, congrats, you’re not alone. Between confusing building abbreviations, underground tunnels, and lecture halls that are not where you think they are, it’s normal to get turned around. But don’t worry, I’ve been there, and I’ve got you.
Here is what I wish I'd known when I was rushing to find my 8:30 a.m. class… five minutes before it started.
1. Bookmark the Campus Map & Download the WesternU Mobile App
The interactive campus map available on Western’s website and built into the WesternU Mobile app lets you search buildings by name or code, get walking directions, and explore food options on campus, parking, and accessible routes. The app also includes your class schedule, library hours, and real-time bus info, making it a true campus life saver. Pro tip: bookmark the map on your phone and download the app so whether you’re online or on the go, you’ll always know where you’re headed.
2. Learn the Landmarks and Building Codes.
Beyond the map, get to know your major landmarks. Use University College Hill, the University Community Centre (UCC), or the big rock near the gates as anchor points to orient yourself. When you see a building code on your schedule, like "SSC" for the Social Science Centre, take a moment to look it up on the official Campus Building Codes list beforehand. Knowing that NCB is the North Campus Building will save you a frantic sprint across campus.
3. Give Yourself Extra Time (Especially the First Week).
Add 15 minutes to whatever you think is enough time. Western is surprisingly hilly, and some buildings have confusing entrances, slow elevators, or stairs that lead to… nowhere. I once walked into the wrong room and almost sat through a third-year economics lecture. I’m an English major. A little buffer time is your best friend.
4. Strategize Your Routes: Tunnels & Buses.
Western has a few underground tunnels (the one between Social Science and Weldon Library is a chef’s kiss in the winter), but they don’t connect every building, and hours can be limited. For longer treks, get familiar with the main bus stops at Natural Science and Alumni Hall. Even if you don't take the bus daily, knowing these hubs can help you navigate.
5. Do a "Dry Run" of Your Schedule.
Before classes begin, or during a long break, physically walk the route between your back-to-back classes. You’ll figure out the quickest path, discover a new coffee spot, and feel infinitely more confident when it counts. You’ll also learn which rooms are sneaky. Room 100 doesn’t always mean the first floor (looking at you, Natural Sciences Building).
6. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help.
It sounds simple, but it's the best advice. Upper-year students, sophs, campus staff, and even other lost-looking first-years are usually happy to point you in the right direction. It’s not weird to say, “Hey, do you know where the UCC is?” We’ve all been there, and a quick question can save you a lot of wandering.
7. Find Your Go-To Spots.
Campus will feel more like your own once you've settled into your places. Take an hour between classes to find a quiet study corner in a library you like, your favourite place to grab coffee from one of the many campus eateries, or a bench with a nice view. Knowing where you can relax and recharge makes a huge difference, especially when midterms get closer.
You’ve Got This.
Everyone gets lost. Everyone walks into the wrong building at least once. Give yourself grace, bring a water bottle, and embrace the awkward navigation moments. By Week 3, you’ll be the one giving directions to someone else, and trust me, it feels great.
Published on
