This year UBC welcomes more than 7,400 incoming first-year students to its campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna. Our incoming class is academically strong and more geographically diverse than ever before.
Here is a snapshot of these students, where they come from, and a perspective on the defining Canadian and international events that have shaped the outlook of the Class of 2013.
Vancouver campus
- Incoming class has grown by eight per cent to 5,931
- 68 per cent are from B.C., 11 per cent from the rest of Canada, 21 per cent from outside Canada
- 48 per cent are male; 52 per cent are female
- Mean entrance average is 89 per cent
Kelowna campus
- Incoming class has grown by 14 per cent to 1,502
- 68 per cent are from B.C., 20 per cent from the rest of Canada, 12 per cent from outside Canada
- 45 per cent are male; 55 per cent are female
- Mean entrance average is 82 per cent
From Winnipeg: Anita Balakumar
Q Why did you choose UBC?
The moment I attended the tour of the UBC campus I was hooked. I love the libraries, the Nitobe Memorial Garden and obviously the warmth of the environment and people. Since I was interested in science, the Coordinated Science Program also looked like a very rewarding option for me.
Q What extracurricular activity do you enjoy?
I have always had a love for gymnastics and dance. I have participated in heavily competitive gymnastics and have found the sport invigorating. Dance, all kinds from salsa to jazz, has also been a simple pleasure of mine.
Q What is your favourite book and music?
The entire Harry Potter collection is undoubtedly my favourite. My favourite band is Our Lady Peace.
Q Do you have a favourite technology device?
I think my cellphone has been my savior most often in my life. While I adore my iPod and laptop, I would be lost without my cellphone (as cliché as that may sound for an 18-year-old girl).
Q What social networking site do you use the most, if any?
Very simple: Facebook. I have tried exploring other networking sites like Twitter and MySpace but neither appeal to me.
Q Where do you get your news?
My debate teacher has always recommended BBC News so that is usually my number one resource. I will also look through the Winnipeg Free Press and Globe and Mail on occasion.
Q How many text messages do you send/receive each day?
Since my cellphone makes text messaging painfully difficult, I would say from 20-100 a day.
From Toronto: David Yesaya
Q Why did you choose UBC?
First of all, it’s one of the best universities in Canada, as well as in the world. Second, UBC has a strong varsity soccer team. The last reason is because the university is located just by the Pacific Ocean.
Q What extracurricular activity do you enjoy most?
I love playing soccer; it’s a good way to release my energy and to socialize with people. The other extracurricular activity that I love after soccer is poetry–all kinds of poetry, but especially spoken word because it permits me to free my mind and to reach others.
Q What is your favourite book, and favourite music?
It’s the Bible, and not just because of my personal beliefs but because everybody agrees that it’s one of the most well-written books, with many literary devices and figures of speech. I have learned to appreciate all kinds of music. Right now I listen to lots of reggae.
Q Do you have a favourite technology device?
My favourite technology device is definitely my laptop. I can’t go anywhere without it.
Q What social networking site do you use the most, if any?
I like using Facebook. It’s an economical way to stay in touch. However, I am strongly conscious that it doesn’t replace physical contact.
Q Where do you get your news?
If it’s not on the Internet, it’s on my way to school by picking up the Metro newspaper on the bus.
Q How many text messages do you send/receive each day?
10.
From Scotts Valley, California: Josh Nicholson
Q Why did you choose UBC?
I chose to come to UBC because of the academic excellence and the opportunity to play baseball.
Q What extracurricular activity do you enjoy?
Baseball, basketball, football, and snowboarding.
Q What is your favourite book and music?
My favorite book is Eragon by Christopher Paolini. I enjoy listening to hip hop/rap music from the 1980s and 90s.
Q Do you have a favourite technology device?
I like my iPod the most but also have a laptop and cellphone that I use frequently.
Q What social networking activity do you use the most?
Texting.
Q Where do you get your news?
On the Internet and I read the sports section of the newspaper.
Q How many text messages do you send/receive each day?
I probably send around 30 a day and receive about 30 a day.
From Vancouver: Ivneet Bains
Q Why did you choose to come to UBC?
I chose to come to UBC because UBC is the best institution where I can develop my personality from all positive aspects. Since UBC is well-reputed and internationally recognized, I feel it’s a great honour to study at UBC.
Q What extracurricular activity do you enjoy?
I enjoy my volunteer work with environmental organizations such as Surrey Parks and Evergreen Environmental Group the most.
Q What is your favourite book and music?
My favourite book is “Deception Point” by Dan Brown. My favourite music is Punjabi music.
Q Do you have a favourite technology device?
Yes, I have my pet laptop as my favourite technology device. It has become an important segment of my life.
Q What social networking site do you use the most, if any?
I go to Facebook quite infrequently.
Q Where do you get your news?
I read the Vancouver Sun in the morning. In the evening, I go online to read news on Google.
Q How many text messages do you send/receive each day?
Practically, I don’t receive many messages on my cell-phone. But I receive around four or five on Gmail.
