As the Class of 2026 prepares to wrap up their time at UBC, we’re recognizing 70 outstanding students for the ways that they’ve shaped their communities on campus and beyond.
This year’s student leaders come from 21 majors across the Faculty of Arts and have taken completely different paths through their degrees. They’ve contributed through student organizations, research, creative work, advocacy, athletics, and supporting the people around them.
While their experiences don’t look the same, what connects them is how they’ve shown up where they’re needed—supporting others, building community, and contributing in ways that matter. Here are the moments that stood out to them, and what they’ll be taking with them after they cross the stage.
Award Winners
Learn more about the award winners here:
Outstanding Student Leaders in the Faculty of Arts
- Sarah Wong, International Relations
Outstanding Student Leaders in the UBC Community
- Akuol Riak, Sociology
- Ian Caguiat, Political Science
Outstanding Student Leaders in the UBC Community and Beyond
- Amirsadegh Kashanipour, Social Work
- CJ McGillivray, Honours English Literature
Award Nominees
Diana Andrews, Honours English Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time on the Central, Eastern and Northern European Studies (CENES) Undergraduate Student Advisory Council (USAC) was particularly impactful. CENES is incredibly supportive, and the staff and faculty really go out of their way to listen to students.
The USAC was a space where I was able to make my voice heard, take initiative, and work collaboratively on projects like the CENES Curiosity Cluster. Through this work, I helped create interdisciplinary spaces for humanities students to explore and celebrate research, foster student-faculty dialogue around accessible course design in the age of AI, and gain insight into how academic departments operate. I learned so much and am grateful for the experience.
Ikra Aziz, History
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Just go for it. Go to an event run by that club that you were interested in on Imagine Day. Take that class that caught your eye as you were building your schedule.
There are so many opportunities and pathways at UBC, but you have to make the first move. I know it’s scary, but it’s so totally worth it. I met my best friends and learned so much about myself by taking that first step. You got this!
Hiya Bansal, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as an Arts Peer Academic Coach (APAC) transformed my understanding of leadership. In one-on-one coaching sessions, I met students navigating academic probation, impostor syndrome, cultural transitions, and burnout. Supporting them required more than strategies. It meant showing up with empathy and having the ability to listen without judgment.
This role also challenged me personally. As someone who has experienced rejection and self-doubt during my own university journey, I had to confront and grow through those experiences so I could show up authentically for others. More than any title or event, APAC shaped the kind of leader I aspire to be: grounded in empathy, intentional in action, and deeply committed to helping others recognize their capacity to thrive.
Ellyana Baumet, Sociology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Take the opportunities you’re given to learn and grow throughout your degree! The Faculty of Arts is large, and there are many communities for you to be a part of.
Whether academically, through a sport, or part of a social club, there is so much room to take a risk, try something new, and contribute to a community that you can be proud of. UBC has so much to offer, and there’s something for everyone to get involved in!
Azélie Blanchette, Honours Human Geography
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
As a transfer student, I joined the Geography Students Association (GSA) Executive Team to build connections within Geography here at UBC. Joining the GSA not only helped me forge friendships, but it also made me feel a part of a community. I gained leadership experience, professional relationship building skills, and more. I loved organizing and attending student-run events on campus because it made my university experience richer and more fulfilling.
Johnny Cerqueira, International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Get involved early and be open to the communities around you. Some of the most meaningful parts of my time at UBC came not just from the classroom, but from the relationships I stepped into, often before I felt fully ready.
Look for opportunities that allow you to contribute alongside others, whether through student organizations, research, or community initiatives. You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin; growth comes from trying new things, staying curious, getting involved, and being intentional about supporting the people around you. Your time here is a chance to shape the communities you join and to leave them more inclusive, connected, and supportive than you found them.
Laura Choi, International Relations
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that I am a practitioner of critical hope. Drawn from the writings of Dr. Kari Grain, I often found myself unable to articulate the weight I carried from the seemingly impossible task of creating positive change in the world. Yet there remained an inextinguishable desire to try. These competing emotions of despair and optimism came together in what I understand as critical hope, shaping my academics, volunteer work, and personal endeavours.
To me, critical hope requires acknowledging the complexities and seeming hopelessness of the world we live in while still holding on to, but the belief that change, incremental as it may be, is possible. It calls us to strive for a better tomorrow than we had today. This shift in mindset helped bring meaning to my work, passion to my research, and hope to my life.
Audrey Chow, International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
UBC and the Faculty of Arts offer so many different experiences, so take advantage of all the opportunities to learn and try new things.
It’s okay to make changes to your plan. Before coming to UBC, I thought I knew exactly what I would do and where it would take me. I’m so glad I let myself explore things outside of academics, because it taught me so many things school alone couldn’t. This is a time of discovery so, even if it’s scary, take risks and step outside your comfort zone. Who knows where it might lead?
Jocelyn Chu, Honours Sociology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The experience that impacted me most was participating in the Urban Ethnographic Field School (UEFS). Although it wasn’t an official leadership role, working with the Binners’ Project in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside changed how I understand what leadership can look like.
Being in the field taught me how to listen and to take accountability for how my positionality shapes my interactions with others. It also deepened my interest in supporting vulnerable populations and helped me build skills in trauma-informed care, research ethics, and interviewing for my Honours thesis on migration and parenting.
Avia Chung, Sociology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time with Go Global has been the most impactful and fulfilling opportunity I’ve had at UBC. After returning from exchange, I was motivated to raise awareness of the programs and share the excitement so that other students could experience it too.
As a project assistant, I worked with inbound and outbound students, as well as staff who were equally passionate about experiential learning.
Katelyn Croy, Environment & Sustainability
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My role as a Coordinator for Climate Justice UBC (CJUBC) has been the most meaningful experience in shaping what leadership means to me. I transferred to UBC in my second year, but I didn’t find a home on campus until I joined CJUBC in my third year.
Seeing our membership grow over the past three years has been incredibly rewarding, especially watching our community become a space where students can support each other and develop skills to advance climate action.
The ingenuity, passion, and commitment of these students remind me that mentorship is as much about advising as it is about creating space for others to grow as leaders in their own right.
Willow Curran-Morton, Anthropology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My role as the President of the Anthropology Students’ Association had the greatest impact on my personal and academic growth. Creating a welcoming and inclusive space for Anthropology students, while advocating for their needs as a liaison between the department and student body, helped me better understand the importance of community-centred leadership.
This experience strengthened my commitment to fostering collaborative spaces, where all voices are heard, valued, and supported.
Julia Do, Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
As a transfer student to the Faculty of Arts, I spent my first day lost in Buchanan B and my first weeks struggling to find my people. From attending my first Arts Undergraduate Society event to later campaigning and serving as Vice-President Internal of the AUS, I found community, grew as a leader, and got to support the first-year and transfer students who reminded me of myself. Bringing student concerns directly to the Faculty of Arts leadership helped me develop advocacy skills and a confidence I carried into roles at the AMS and the Ubyssey.
Marie Erikson, Honours Philosophy
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Ask questions. Ask to learn more about an interesting topic, ask why, ask for help, and ask if you can join that cool project, team, or class.
Opportunities aren’t handed to you. I’ve learned so much from writing an article, joining a committee, or taking a graduate class that I wouldn’t have been able to without asking. Women especially underestimate how capable they are, and I’ve done that so many times myself. But people here value curiosity and motivation, so don’t be afraid.
Encourage your friends and find people who will encourage you to challenge yourself (in a healthy way!) too.
Goli Eshtiaghi, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being Director and Co-VP External for the International Relations Students’ Association (IRSA) really changed the trajectory of how I view leadership and my place at UBC campus. It gave me a community of like-minded people, as well as the confidence to engage with a range of organizations, student clubs, and non-profits across campus and beyond. I became more engaged with those around me and really appreciate the value of stepping out of my comfort zone to seize opportunities outside of academia that can develop a whole other set of skills.
Erin Fan, Psychology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
My time at UBC helped me realize how capable I am of accomplishing my goals and overcoming challenges. Throughout my degree, I found myself in situations that pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and face barriers head-on. I realized just how resilient I can be, and how driven I am to achieve what I set my mind to.
Mehak Fatima, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Say yes to spaces that scare you a little. When I came to UBC, I didn’t fully understand how much power students have in shaping the institution. Join the committee. Apply for the role. Start the initiative. You do not need to feel “ready.” Leadership is something you grow into, not something you arrive with.
Remember that your voice matters. Universities are shaped by those who participate in them. Ask questions. Advocate when something feels unfair. Bring your lived experience into the room. You’re not just here to earn a degree, you’re here to help shape the community you’re part of.
Mya Froese, Honours Psychology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that it’s okay to fail, it’s okay to be wrong, and it’s okay to not find your place where you expected to. I learned the most valuable life lessons by picking up the pieces when things didn’t go how I would have liked them to.
Seerat Ghai, International Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Working as a Work Learn Program Development Coordinator at the Vancouver School of Economics Career Centre had the most impact on me. It was the first time I understood how much care goes into shaping a student’s experience. Through that process, I began to see leadership as attentiveness to gaps, hesitation, and potential.
There were moments when a student would say, “I didn’t know this was possible for me,” and I understood that the work was never just about programming. It was about expanding someone’s imagination of their own future. Being entrusted with even small parts of that journey reshaped how I think about responsibility and the role I play within a community.
Penny Gullion, Film Production
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The opportunity that impacted me the most was my role as a šxʷta:təχʷəm student advisor. Being able to greet new Indigenous students and instantly connect over culture and the shared experience of coming to UBC has given me lasting memories.
One of the most meaningful parts was teaching traditional crafts like ribbon skirts. Watching students create a piece from start to completion—something that is for them and honours where they are from, will always give me joy.
Ananya Gupta, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Be brave. The opportunities are endless if you ask for them as you enter classrooms, student spaces, or difficult conversations. Never let insecurity stop you from applying for a role, joining a project, or putting yourself forward. It takes curiosity and courage to be a leader.
Balance academics with participation and look after your wellbeing. Sustainable leadership needs boundaries, time for reflection, and a community. Seek mentors, ask questions, and surround yourself with people who challenge and support you.
Arts will teach you more than theory. It will teach you critical thinking, empathy, and communication. Say yes at the right moments, but when you do, go all in. Your ability to make an impact starts with believing you belong in the room.
Felicity Gutierrez, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
I can’t imagine another leadership opportunity at UBC as personally impactful as the time that I have spent as an organizer of the Asian Canadian & Asian Migration (ACAM) Studies’ Dialogues program. While my work felt indulgent at times (discussing Asian Canadianness over food—all my favourite things), it also challenged me to grow. Our work was led with values that I aligned with: reciprocity, anti-hierarchy, and accountability, to name a few. These are values that I will continue to carry forward.
Maryam Haroon, International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Explore options presented to you and get involved in your community. Attend as many events as you can! You don’t need to be super talkative, you can listen and observe. There’s a lot to learn from participating. If you find something you like, stick with it but you shouldn’t be afraid to change course if it doesn’t fit your goals anymore.
Katie Hartman, Psychology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that the people you surround yourself with don’t just come by chance. I am grateful to be surrounded by such authentic, thoughtful, supportive people, and I’ve come to see that showing up with integrity, consistency, and kindness, has helped me build this community.
Aliya Hirji, Environment & Sustainability
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My most impactful opportunity at UBC was coordinating the Collective for Parks, Conservation, Innovation and Leadership, a knowledge initiative in the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship. This role helped me better understand how important it is to bring together intergenerational, intercultural, interindustry, and interdisciplinary perspectives for effective and equitable decision-making.
Tyler Horman, Linguistics
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Don’t be afraid to study what you want. UBC offers such a wide range of programs, and leaning into something “niche” can really set you apart.
Talk to your instructors, too. Most of them aren’t that scary! Ask questions and show up, particularly if you’re in a smaller department or program. Establishing relationships with instructors has been really meaningful to me. I’ve been able to lean on them for support when I’ve experienced personal crises, and it’s opened opportunities for research and professional development. It’s also just a fun way to learn more about what you’re interested in.
Bhavya Jain, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The Psychology Students’ Association had the most impact on me as a leader. It’s where I grew, gradually and meaningfully, from a contributor into someone guiding others. I started as a Content Writer, later became Academic Director, and eventually served as Vice-President Academic, leading a team of 20 executives.
Growing within the same organization over three years showed me that leadership isn’t a fixed role. It’s a continuous process of learning, reflection, and shared responsibility.
Malika Kahlon, Honours Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on your during your time at UBC?
The opportunity that had the most impact on me was my work with the Multidisciplinary Undergraduate Research Conference (MURC). When I first joined, I saw it primarily as a platform for undergraduate students to present their research.
But as I trained adjudicators and designed presenter workshops, I realized it was also about creating opportunities for students to engage with work across disciplines and discover research they might not have encountered otherwise.
As Co-Chair, I focused on building a conference where all students, not just presenters, could attend sessions outside their field and learn something new.
Rosa Kontogianni, Ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
I have been most impacted by serving on the Arts Undergraduate Society (AUS) Council. It was illuminating to learn how our student government works, and to see just how much one person can do to make a difference.
Ashleigh Kruschel, Modern European Studies
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
Balance is key: in classes, diet, extracurriculars, exercise, work, socializing, self-care, in everything. Making space for everything in my life that I wanted, rather than focusing all my energy on one thing was the only way I could succeed in everything while taking care of my mental health.
Jenneil Lai, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Be courageous and stay curious. University is one of the few times in our lives when so many opportunities are in one place, so say yes to the things that spark even a small sense of excitement. Growth rarely feels comfortable at first, but those moments often shape us the most.
Give yourself permission to explore without having everything figured out. Your path doesn’t need to look linear or perfect. UBC Arts offers an incredible diversity of ideas and communities, and the confidence and clarity you’re searching for often comes from showing up consistently and being open to learning. Trust that you belong here, and that your voice has value.
Victoria Li, Honours Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The opportunity that had the greatest impact on me was reestablishing the second women-matching (including trans and non-binary athletes) competitive ultimate frisbee team at UBC in my first year.
This experience shaped me profoundly because it taught me what it means to lead with both vision and responsibility. I learned how to navigate institutional systems, advocate for equity, and build community in a way that genuinely expands access.
What made this experience transformative was seeing how the team reshaped the community around it. Since its reestablishment, nearly 300 athletes have engaged with the program, and several have gone on to represent Team Canada and Team Hong Kong. Those outcomes reflect not just athletic success but the impact of creating space where it didn’t previously exist.
Sloane Madden, Honours English Literature
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned how adaptive I could be. University is challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Trying new courses, balancing classes with work and friends, exploring extracurriculars—all of this can feel like an impossible task as a first year, but these experiences help you grow and become more comfortable with uncertainty.
Through my degree, I learned that I love working with and leading interdisciplinary teams, and that I am passionate about making research more accessible for undergraduate students. The right opportunities are everywhere if you’re open to them.
My time at UBC showed me that learning is a journey, and it will continue well past graduation. While that may feel daunting, to me at least, it is also exciting.
Rory Maddinson, History
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time as a mentor in UBC International Scholars Program had the most impact on me. I feel very privileged to have been able to support students from over 90 different countries as they found their footing at UBC. I hope to stay in contact with them after graduation and watch just how far they go.
Rebecca Malfair, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Step outside of your comfort zone and try things, even if you’re unsure at first. Give yourself the chance to succeed, make mistakes, and learn from the people around you. Some of the most meaningful experiences come from opportunities you didn’t plan for but decided to say yes to.
UBC is a vibrant and diverse community, with so much to learn beyond the classroom. Get involved in student groups, attend events, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out for support. You’ll learn just as much from the people around you as you will from your coursework.
Most importantly, be patient with yourself. Growth takes time, and everyone’s journey looks different. Trust that you belong here, and allow yourself to explore, reflect, and grow along the way.
Bryna McGarrigle, Sociology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that I am capable of so much more than I had ever imagined! Coming to UBC felt intimidating at first, but with support from clubs, staff, and the community, I was able to take on new challenges and gain so many great experiences and memories in the process.
Justice Migneault, Interdisciplinary Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as team captain of the swim team had the greatest impact on me. Leading a high-performance group while balancing academics challenged me to communicate clearly, stay composed under pressure, and put the team’s needs first.
Guiding our team through national championship seasons taught me that leadership is less about titles and more about consistency, accountability, and setting the standard every day.
Alessia Montecalvo, International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Take advantage of the opportunities available to you as a UBC student—there is a huge range of student initiatives, clubs, research roles, and more to explore. Take some time to research and discover them, talk to people, attend events and apply for things that interest you. You’ll find your place in this great big campus (even if it takes some time)!
Tammy Nishida, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The opportunity that had the greatest impact on me was my work as a Go Global Project Assistant and Senior Global Ambassador. Drawing from my experience at Yonsei University in South Korea, I took part in info sessions and panel discussions and provided one-on-one support for students.
Seeing students get more excited and confident about their international study plans showed me how student leaders can play a meaningful role in expanding access to global learning opportunities at UBC.
Moyowa Ometoruwa, International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Explore everything. Figuring out what you don’t want to do is just as important as figuring out what you do.
While I was initially unsure what I wanted my career or post-graduate life to look like, but trying various extracurricular and professional experiences showed me things about myself that I only could have realized from trying everything.
Makenna Parkes, Speech Sciences
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that with the right supports, I am capable of anything. When I began my degree in a completely different program, I had very little confidence that I would make it through that degree itself, let alone consider graduate studies.
After switching into Arts, I found the right learning spaces and academic support systems for me, and I rediscovered my love for learning. Feeling confident in my studies has allowed me to pursue goals outside of school and see how much I’m able to grow in the right environment.
Lola Peverley, Sociology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time in the UBC Players Club has been so valuable to my professional, academic, and personal development. In particular, serving as the president for two years has had a great impact on me. I gained new confidence in myself as a leader, improving on my existing skills, as well as developing new ones.
It also helped me to find my place in the UBC community and create that same sense of belonging for others.
Acacia Philcox, Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The student leadership opportunity that had the most impact on me was my position as Co-Editor-in-Chief of the UBC Journal of International Affairs. I started off as an Editor, and alongside my team, helped lead the 40th Edition.
Being part of the journal from the beginning gave me the chance to shape its direction and see firsthand the immense dedication, passion and work it takes to bring a large project to life. Working alongside fellow students and authors, who were constantly adapting, learning and searching for their own answers to the bigger question of what international relations is, was incredibly inspiring and helped me shape my ideas for the future.
Anna Pontin, Honours English Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
I have loved being a part of the Climate Justice UBC. The team was extremely welcoming to newcomers and quickly included me in their community initiatives and direct actions. Taking collective political action and working with other organized student groups like UBC Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR) and Sulong UBC meant a lot to me.
Madeleine Quong-Lee, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Say yes to opportunities and put yourself out there! University is so much more than courses and academics. Some of my most meaningful experiences in Arts came from stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things (like ballroom dance)!
UBC is full of communities that will welcome you exactly as you are, and I found that growth often happens in moments when you take risks and allow yourself to be supported.
Felix Rowe, Art History
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
There are more doors open than the ones you notice. When I arrived at UBC, I imagined only a narrow path ahead, yet life kept unfolding in ways I could never have foreseen, offering opportunities I did not know to look for.
Leave room for unexpected doors to open, and you may find life offering more than you ever thought to ask for.
Jacob Sablan, Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Working as a Research Assistant for Dr. Alison Taylor on the Hard Working Student (HWS) Study was a standout experience. It gave me a unique opportunity to learn about other undergraduate students’ experiences, and see how research, knowledge mobilization, and advocacy can help get their voices heard by the institution.
Jenykha Sangha, Honours English Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as a Co-Editor-in-Chief for the Undergraduate Journal of Art History and Visual Culture has been a meaningful part of my UBC experience. The role allowed me to contribute to the journal in a different way than I had as a student editor and gave me insight into the processes of scholarly publishing.
I was able to support the students whose work makes the journal possible and gained new insights into the needs of my peers while being introduced to so much beautiful and inspiring scholarly and artistic work being done by UBC’s undergraduates.
Anshu Saroha, International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
It might sound cliché, but no one is thinking about it as much as you are. In my first two years, I hesitated to explore opportunities out of fear of judgment, and I missed out.
Once I embraced a more proactive mindset, I discovered leadership roles, projects, and communities that shaped my growth. UBC has something for everyone, and your peers, mentors, and staff are here to support you. You just have to take the first step.
Lyn Scatchard, Sociology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
As Vice-President of UBC Knit and Sew, I led a charity drive to donate hats, scarves and mittens to a Downtown East Side shelter. This was a large project that involved coordinating with local yarn stores and other knitting groups, and after months of work, we donated eight boxes of handmade clothing. Seeing it come together gave me the confidence that I can have a tangible impact on my community and inspired me to do more.
Since then, we’ve installed two yarn libraries on campus to provide free, accessible yarn and supplies, lowering barriers of entry to the craft. Both initiatives have had a meaningful impact on the UBC community, and I hope they will continue after I graduate.
Kade Schneider, Cognitive Systems
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as President of the Cognitive Systems Society taught me just as much about being on a team as leading one. Collaborating with peers is a core part of the human experience, and this opportunity helped me build meaningful professional connections.
I came to see my role as putting my team in the best position to succeed by giving them the resources and freedom to pursue their ideas. That approach, supported by a flexible team dynamic, felt especially rewarding as I watched my team be the best it can be.
Kate Seeley, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Try new things! This is an explorative time in your life, use that to your advantage.
Negar Shaban, Philosophy and Political Science
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that you can do incredible things and remain deeply resilient when you find real meaning and purpose in what you do. When you have a clear “why,” exhaustion becomes easier to carry, and the impossible starts to feel manageable. Find your why, and return to it often.
During my degree, there were times when the workload felt overwhelming, but I kept going because I cared deeply about what I was working toward. My “why” has always been rooted in where I come from. As an Iranian, I come from a long line of women who were denied access to education and autonomy, often pushed into marriage and family life before they had the chance to choose for themselves. I have always felt that my education is both a privilege and a responsibility. Remembering this grounded me through every late night and moment of doubt.
Ria Shinde, Honours Political Science with International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving in Student Housing has had the greatest impact on me during my time at UBC. Every August, I meet a new group of residents beginning one of the biggest transitions of their lives. It is a privilege to help shape a resident’s first-year experience, a milestone that often shapes how they grow into young adults.
From September to April, the growth is remarkable. Students who arrive unsure slowly gain confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Watching parents drop off their children in September and return in April to pick up young adults is something I never take lightly. Being part of that transformation will have a very lasting impact on me.
Devina Singh, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Don’t wait until you feel completely ready to try something new. University isn’t a straight line for most people. It’s normal to question your interests, so give yourself permission to explore without needing every choice to make perfect sense right away. A lot of my growth came from stepping into spaces where I was still learning and figuring things out along the way.
Let yourself change! The person you are when you arrive won’t be the person you graduate as. Try classes that surprise you. Follow interests that don’t fully “make sense” yet. Pay attention to what feels energizing, and focus on people, not just productivity. Go to office hours, stay a little longer after events, and talk to classmates. University ends up being shaped far more by the people you invest in and the ways you allow yourself to grow than by a checklist.
Maydha Sood, Political Science
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
UBC taught me to be more patient with myself and more intentional in how I learn, lead, and connect with others. Through both academic challenges and leadership experiences, I learned to trust my capacity to grow into new responsibilities and make thoughtful decisions even when I don’t have all the answers.
I’m leaving with a stronger sense of confidence, not because everything is figured out, but because I trust myself to keep learning, adapting, and remaining accountable to the people and communities around me.
Tanay Suresh, Gender, Race, Sexuality & Social Justice
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time as co-president of the GRSJ Undergraduate Association. Leading an organization centred on care and solidarity, especially for marginalized communities, meant working alongside others motivated by their lived experiences, and working together to challenge systemic barriers, which made the work deeply meaningful. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work across disciplines and explore the intersections of social justice, sustainability, and academia.
Through this role, I was able to meaningfully engage with the GRSJ community and beyond, on issues like clothing and food insecurity. My experience with the GRSJUA shaped me into a more open-minded and intentional leader, committed to bringing diverse voices to the table and creating meaningful change.
Maxene Uy, Sociology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Dare to do what feels intimidating. Join that club, go on that date, talk to that person who sits beside you in your introductory class! You never know what that decision could lead to. University is the time try new things and explore every single possible path.
Sarina Virani, Gender, Race, Sexuality & Social Justice
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I discovered a newfound passion for teaching and learning in community. I especially enjoyed the opportunity to serve as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for the Coordinated Arts Program, where I had the opportunity to mentor first-year students just beginning their journeys in higher education, knowing that I was in their place not long ago.
I also had the opportunity to take part in a community-engaged research project through ACAM 320J: Asian Canadian Community Organizing, which broadened my understanding of what research can look like, and strengthened my interest in community-engaged work.
I have been deeply inspired by the phenomenal educators who have shaped my undergraduate experience: Drs. Alifa Bandali, Kim Snowden, and Ayesha Chaudhry. I hope to one day make the kind of impact on students that they have made on me.
Dewi Wahono, Honours Sociology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My involvement with the Sociology Students’ Association has had the greatest impact on me during my time at UBC. I helped rebuild community events after the pandemic, bringing events like Talk Sociology (an alumni panel) back in-person. It reminded me how important shared academic spaces are for fostering belonging and confidence.
What shaped me most was recognizing how much anxiety many students feel about entering today’s job market. As Sociology students, we often question what comes next. Being able to connect peers with alumni, honours research, co-op opportunities, and teaching assistantships felt purposeful. It wasn’t just about hosting events, but about making pathways feel tangible and attainable so current students could focus and have confidence in their studies.
Bimo Sulistyo Wibowo, Environment & Sustainability
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Be curious, even when you are unsure. You do not need to have everything figured out in your first year. Some of the most meaningful opportunities will come from conversations you did not plan for or roles you did not think you were ready for.
Say yes to things that stretch you. Join a community that feels unfamiliar. Reach out to peers. Don’t chase the “perfect path.” Follow what sparks your curiosity, even if it doesn’t match your plan!
Brooklyn Wiens, Psychology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that I am capable of enduring challenging situations. It gave me confidence going into the future.
Emily Wong-Abdul, Environment & Sustainability
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as the Associate Vice-President of Sustainability with the AMS allowed me to connect my academics with real-world action, turning theory into advocacy and institutional change.
I contributed to long-term initiatives aligned with the UBC Campus Vision 2050, particularly through my work on the AMS Sustainable Action Plan 2026. Working with diverse stakeholders across campus, I helped shape goals that integrated environmental, economic, and social sustainability, while advocating for priorities like sustainable transportation, plant-based initiatives, and student-led environmental projects.
The role strengthened my ability to lead collaboratively, communicate with decision-makers, and navigate complex institutional structures. Most importantly, it affirmed my desire to pursue sustainability work beyond university, grounded in collaboration, accountability, and community impact.
Jiongzheng Xu, Spanish
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Take advantage of the resources and opportunities that the Faculty of Arts provides. There is a strong support network here, and some of my most valuable experiences began with a simple conversation or question, so don’t be afraid to reach out.
Be open to exploring. Arts gives you the space to think critically, cross disciplines, and discover new interests. Use this time to challenge yourself, engage with your community, and start shaping what comes next.
Jessica Yeung, Honours English Language & Literature
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
UBC is full of interesting people, and the people are what make your experience at UBC so great! I can’t count how many friends and connections I made simply by getting involved in clubs or simply chatting with someone next to me at IKB. You never know where you may meet a new best friend just by being willing to talk to someone new.
Now, in my final year, I look around and realize that many of my closest friends were once just strangers sitting beside me in class.
