In high school, Peter hated physics and math but loved solving problems with computer science. So he was thrilled when he found out that UBC Okanagan has a computer science program in the Faculty of Arts. This is a program that blends creativity with technology, and allows him to pursue his strengths.
Read on to find out where he gets his favourite egg-drop sandwich on campus, his difficult transition as an international student, and how he learned to carve the path he wanted to follow.
1. How has UBC helped you shape your future?
As an international student, UBC has given me an unique opportunity to surround myself with a variety of people and resources to help me succeed. UBC is filled with people from different walks of life and I have been blessed to be able to connect and learn from these people and their experiences – from my professors to my fellow peers.
UBC has also spoiled me with resources – from Academic & Career Advising to the Co-op Education Program -that have helped me understand better who I am and who I want to be. Ultimately, these people and resources have broadened my horizons to opportunities I otherwise may not have envisioned.
2. In what ways has UBC allowed you to create your own unique experiences and path?
I am a student in the Faculty of Arts majoring in Computer Science. Coming out of high school, I knew I absolutely loathed physics, wanted to avoid math at all costs, and loved solving complex problems with computer science. As such, finding out about the Computer Science major in the Bachelor of Arts at UBC was monumental for me because it meant that I could tailor my degree to prioritize my strengths and help me avoid my weaknesses.
Because of the variety of options at UBC, I was able to find something that fit me and allowed me to explore my interests without having to fully compromise on the things I knew I was not strong in.
Outside of the classroom, UBC offers a variety of extra-curricular activities that if you are willing, you can make your own. I have had the privilege of being an undergraduate research assistant, Student Ambassador, Residence Advisor, Destination UBC Coordinator, and more. From clubs to work opportunities, I have been able to find meaningful engagements that have enriched my experience as a student and as a person.
3. How does the Okanagan inspire how you live and learn?
Being an international student with minimal knowledge about the Okanagan before I came here, it has been quite the experience learning about the rich history of the Okanagan. Learning and interacting with this history has helped me understand what a blessing it is to be able to be here as a visitor and it has deepened my appreciation of where I am. As a result, I strive to live in a manner that is respectful to the original owners of the land and act in a way that brings life, not harm.
4. What are your favourite spots on campus? Best study spots, places to eat, best coffee?
My favorite spots on campus include the library, the Science Atrium, and the athletics facilities.
The library for me has become somewhat of a social spot and has, ironically, become the spot where I come to take a break from academics. Here, I can find many of my peers, catch a football (soccer) game, and procrastinate on the assignments I have due at midnight by engaging in the wildest of conversations.
The Science Atrium is a spot on campus that, although I don’t visit too often, I love. The furniture and plant life blend harmoniously to produce an environment that is quite peaceful and serene. When it is open (during the summer) it is an amazing spot to be able to get some work done, separate from the hustle and bustle of campus life, or even just have a little picnic.
The athletics facilities hold a special place in my heart because I am someone who loves to be engaged actively. I start most days in the gym and you can find me at other times of the day playing basketball or football. Special mention to J’s Cafe which just opened up in the UNC. I absolutely love their egg-drop sandwiches and chai lattes.
5. Do you have any tips or advice for someone who’s considering UBC Okanagan?
My advice for someone considering UBC Okanagan is to approach with an open mentality and truly reflect on who you are, who you want to be, and what is important to you. If I’m being 100% transparent, being an international student, I didn’t know much about UBC Okanagan before coming here so I didn’t know what to expect. This could’ve been a deterrent, but my desire to learn and grow surpassed my fear of the unknown. This being my first time truly being away from home on my own made this experience quite scary.
I cannot lie and say moving and the first year was easy because it wasn’t, I came late and everything was up in the air for quite some time. What truly grounded me was the fact that I took this time to understand who I am, who I want to be, and what is important to me. I aligned myself with my values, values that I brought with me from home, values that helped shape the way I look at the world. With this understanding, I took steps to begin to carve the path I wanted to follow to help me reach my goals. While I am still far from the ultimate goal, I know I am on the way there.
