The Sauder Mini Business School provided an opportunity to explore different aspects of the business world. It was a chance to take the first steps towards defining my future career path.
Student, UBC Future Global Leaders
What was the first thing you noticed about UBC Future Global Leaders when you arrived?
When I think of a typical university, I think of a place where I am just a student number, the same as everybody else. I was proven wrong the second I sat in the FGL classroom. The teaching staff—Alym, Shannon and Celine—were remarkable instructors who created a welcoming and nurturing learning environment. They encouraged us to grow, ask questions freely and engage deeply with the material. Aside from their teaching roles, they were supportive and compassionate people who went above and beyond, staying after class to provide personal guidance, dedicating their time to helping myself and others navigate the various opportunities and challenges throughout the program, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to our success inside and outside the classroom.
What motivated you to register for UBC Future Global Leaders, and why did you choose the Sauder Mini Business School?
I saw FGL as an opportunity to challenge myself by stepping into a new environment. It was vital for me to experience a taste of university life and understand what it truly means to be a university student—academically and socially.
UBC's recognition as a top-tier university was a significant factor in my decision, as it reassured me that I would receive a high-quality education during my two weeks there.
When choosing a specific program within FGL, the Sauder Mini Business School caught my eye. I already had a strong inclination to pursue a business career. Yet, my high school offered few business-related courses, limiting my exposure to the field. Consequently, I was unsure which facet of business would suit me best. The Sauder Mini Business School provided an opportunity to explore different aspects of the business world. It was a chance to take the first steps towards defining my future career path.
How does your experience in the Sauder Mini Business School compare to high school life?
The Sauder Mini Business School has a more specialized and focused learning environment to give students insight into business-related topics. As we progress through our years in school, the subjects we study naturally become more niche, allowing us to narrow our focus on areas that truly interest us. This gradual specialization often brings us closer to people who share those academic interests, fostering a sense of connection and common purpose. The Sauder Mini Business School was no exception; everyone there was passionate about business, actively engaged in class discussions and genuinely eager to learn.
In contrast, learning environment in high school feels less concentrated and dynamic compared to the more specialized and interest-driven atmosphere of the Sauder Mini Business School.
How have the Sauder Mini Business School instructors impacted your experience?
I can't emphasize enough the support I had while only being at UBC for two weeks. The teaching staff—Alym, Shannon and Celine—were incredible. They established a warm, embracing learning environment, encouraged us to ask questions and participate in class, and went above and beyond their instructor jobs. Their assistance was not limited to class; they provided personal guidance and supported us in navigating the challenges and opportunities that came with our time there. They made my experience at UBC feel personal and enjoyable.
What has been the best part of the UBC Future Global Leaders summer on-campus program?
The best part of the FGL summer program was the opportunity to experience university life at UBC firsthand. I made friends in my dorm, chose a course that interested me, explored the campus and engaged with numerous student monitors who shared their insights on academics and daily life. These interactions deepened my understanding of the UBC community. I was truly impressed with how safe I felt almost instantly when I got to UBC. I have strongly advised my friends to join me again next year!
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