
Sofia’s life-threatening allergy to dairy has given nutrition a very important role in her life. Curious about the role that food plays in health, and wanting to empower others who are navigating dietary restrictions, Sofia decided to become a Dietitian and major in the Dietetics program at UBC Vancouver.
Read on to find out how she’s been building her network with practicums, her involvement in the Land and Food Systems Undergraduate Society, and her favourite Harry Potter study spot.
My experience in the Dietetics program has been both enlightening and rewarding. It’s one thing to pursue a program that interests you, but actually experiencing it has shown me just how engaging and fulfilling it can be. The courses provide practical knowledge on how nutrition applies to real-world settings, from clinical nutrition in hospitals, to public health and food management.”
1. What made you decide to enrol in the Land and Food Systems program at UBC Vancouver?
Nutrition has been an interest of mine since childhood, but it wasn’t until high school that I realized I could turn this passion into a career. I started digging into different fields and came across Dietetics and the Food, Nutrition and Health (FNH) program at UBC, which felt like a perfect fit. UBC Vancouver is a beautiful campus that ranks as one of the top institutions in Canada, and the world. I knew that the FNH program would provide me with the perfect mix of academics, extracurricular opportunities, and campus life.
2. What has been your experience in the program so far?
My experience in the Dietetics program has been both enlightening and rewarding. It’s one thing to pursue a program that interests you, but actually experiencing it has shown me just how engaging and fulfilling it can be. The courses provide practical knowledge on how nutrition applies to real-world settings, from clinical nutrition in hospitals, to public health and food management.
Through practicums in various health sectors and group projects with real-world applications, I’ve gained valuable hands-on experience and explored the diverse specialty areas within Dietetics. These opportunities have not only built my familiarity with different fields but have also helped me prepare to pursue a career path that aligns with my passion.
What makes the program truly special is the tight-knit community. Whether it’s classmates, professors, or staff, there’s always a familiar face in the halls, creating a strong sense of belonging and support. Being surrounded by this network of peers allows me to access new opportunities and build a foundation for my future career.
3. Do you have any special memories at UBC that stand out? Is there a moment that validated your decision to come to UBC?
A special memory that stands out from my time at UBC occurred during my third year when I got involved with the Land and Food Systems Undergraduate Society (LFS|US). This organization, which represents LFS students, hosts various events such as LFS Week, socials, and community dinners. I was honored to serve as the Associate Vice President External and later as the Vice President External in my third and fourth years. These roles gave me invaluable experience in leadership, time management, collaboration, and communication.
4. What are your favourite spots on campus? Best study spots, places to eat, best coffee?
Some of my favorite spots on campus are the Education Library, Agora Café, the UBC Botanical Garden, and the Ridington Room in Irving K. Barber Library.
The Education Library is a quiet and cozy place to study, with big windows overlooking a peaceful courtyard. The Ridington Room feels like something out of Harry Potter, with its tall ceilings and large portraits of past UBC presidents and chancellors. It’s a unique space that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era. Be sure to get there early though because it fills up quickly.
Agora Café is a student-run, non-profit café located in the basement of the MacMillan Building. They serve a great selection of vegan and vegetarian options, all priced at $7 or less. It’s an affordable and delicious spot for a quick bite.
The UBC Botanical Garden is another favourite. It’s free for students and a great place to take a walk and enjoy some fresh air. It’s the perfect spot to recharge and appreciate the natural beauty on campus.
5. How have your interests and passions helped to shape your education journey?
Something that has motivated me towards this career path is my life-threatening allergy to dairy. It has profoundly impacted both my dietary choices and my understanding of food’s role in health. This personal experience has sparked my curiosity about nutrition and allowed me to appreciate not only how food nourishes the body but also its potential to bring people together and foster a sense of community. My passion for helping others navigate dietary restrictions, as I have, has guided my decision to become a Dietitian. I aspire to empower individuals facing similar challenges, supporting them no matter where they are in their journey.
6. In what ways has UBC allow you to create your own unique experiences and path?
UBC has provided me with countless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. In the Dietetics program, I completed a clinical placement at Vancouver General Hospital, where I gained real-world experience shadowing a Registered Dietitian.
Through my involvement with the LFS Undergraduate Society as Associate Vice President External and later Vice President External, I led a team, organized events, and built key leadership and organizational skills. UBC’s WorkLearn program also allowed me to balance academics while taking on roles like LFS Student Ambassador and Communications Assistant, where I developed skills in public speaking, graphic design, and coding.
I’ve realized that creating your own path requires taking risks. By seizing the opportunities available, I’ve been able to build unique experiences that reflect my passions and interests. Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects though has been the chance to connect with industry professionals and like-minded peers, building a network that not only inspires me but will support me through my career journey.
7. Do you have any tips or advice for someone who’s considering UBC Vancouver?
Be your authentic self! Take the time to reflect on what truly excites you about the program and what drives you. You don’t need to have everything figured out just yet, starting with an area of interest is already a great foundation. Focusing on that passion and applying it to what you hope to learn will help with your application. University is a place for discovery, growth, and ongoing learning. It’s okay not to have all the answers right away.