UBC Okanagan: Introducing the University of British Columbia's lesser known campus

In this episode, we are excited to speak with Susan Allan, the Director of the International Student Initiative at the University of British Columbia's Okanagan campus, located in the beautiful city of Kelowna, Canada. Susan has been involved with UBC's international student community for over a decade, helping students from all over the world navigate the university experience and make the most of their time in Canada. She has also been involved in the local community, helping to build bridges between UBC and the wider Kelowna community. Kelowna, located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains, lakes, and vineyards. It is known for its mild climate, outdoor activities, and welcoming community. UBC's Okanagan campus, which opened in 2005, is a young and dynamic institution that is rapidly gaining recognition for its research, teaching, and innovation. Susan explains that one of the main benefits of joining UBC Okanagan is the quality of education students receive. UBC is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Canada and the world, and its Okanagan campus is no exception. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including arts, science, engineering, education, health, and management. Students have access to world-class facilities, research opportunities, and faculty members who are leaders in their fields. But it's not just about the academics. Susan emphasizes that UBC Okanagan also offers a rich and diverse student experience, with plenty of opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities and meet new people. The university has over 150 clubs and organizations, ranging from cultural and recreational to academic and professional. Students can participate in sports teams, volunteer in the community, join a debate club, or start their own initiative. Susan notes that these activities help students develop important skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and adaptability. One of the unique aspects of UBC Okanagan is its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The campus is designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly, with features such as solar panels, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems. The university also has a strong focus on research and innovation, with initiatives such as the Innovation Hub, which supports entrepreneurship and collaboration between students, faculty, and industry partners. Susan notes that UBC Okanagan is particularly welcoming to international students, who make up a significant proportion of the student body. The university offers a range of services and programs to support international students, including pre-arrival orientation, academic advising, language support, and cultural events. Susan emphasizes that the university values diversity and encourages students to share their unique perspectives and experiences. Living in Kelowna is also a major draw for students, according to Susan. The city has a population of around 140,000 and offers a mix of urban and rural lifestyles. Students can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports, as well as cultural events such as festivals, concerts, and theatre productions. Kelowna is also home to a growing tech industry, with opportunities for internships and employment after graduation. Susan acknowledges that studying abroad can be a big decision and a major investment, but she believes that the rewards are worth it. She encourages students to think about their long-term goals and how studying at UBC Okanagan can help them achieve those goals. She also advises students to do their research, ask questions, and connect with current students and alumni to get a sense of what the university and city are really like.