Canuck Pride! Past Review

By (History, University of British Columbia) for

University of British Columbia: Canada - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about life experiences: international life, keeping up with a bigger city, getting out and experiencing a million things at once. I understand things that I would have missed out on if I decided to go through my four years of college back home. This year abroad has given me so much more than I expected and I have no doubt that I will be back in Vancouver one day for one reason or another.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The educational experience was really awesome! I was able to take on a lot of courses that I would not be able to take on back at my university. At the same time, the courses were not necessarily the easiest and I still had to work at the same pace as back home and sometimes even harder. Still the educational system was excellent and I learned so many things about the Canadian culture from just being in class. The grading system was probably the only thing that caught me by surprise for a bit, but I soon got used to it.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The host country program administration was pretty helpful, especially when I had issues with academics. They are really helpful (more accurate) with all your general questions if you go to their international center. The only downfall might be that they are not your academic advisors from home and might not be 100% knowledgeable on your school requirements.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Walter Gage was a good place to live in. I had the top floor and an AMAZING view of the city and ocean. The building was also located right next to the main bus loop which also made it a great deal. The building itself was a little bit older so it wasn't brand new looking, but it was clean and good looking for its age. This was a very sociable place and students would be walking around at all hours. Safety wasn't a big concern. Class was generally close for some people and about a twenty minute walk from my classes (thankfully there are buses that could get me there faster). Probably the best dorm housing on campus in terms of distance from important things, living arrangement, and daily activity.

* Food:

Variety of food was a little bit harder to come by if you wanted to eat out. There was a place called "The Village" near the Gage building but it was about a ten minute walk and you would soon grow tired of just eating the same food. Instead I had the luxury of cooking my food from the store at home on the stove. I would suggest one should probably cook at home if possible, but if not go enjoy the food out in the city.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The program offered numerous events to get you involved with the other international students and local students. I would recommend a balance of hanging out with international students and local students so that you enjoy the social aspects of living in Vancouver. If possible look out for clubs and other events that are being hosted around campus and in the city so that you can enjoy the social and cultural experience even more!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I honestly felt safer in Vancouver than I did back in California so safety was really the least of my issues. This doesn't mean you should ignore trying to be safe if possible. The healthcare is really easy to use and the health center for treatments and check-ups is relatively close to the Village. Just use common sense and keep in touch with your medical papers and you should definitely be safe and healthy.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Words of wisdom.... watch your money, don't talk to shady strangers, and get out of your room on those rainy days and have fun!