by Ainsley Carry
This information was sent to UBC-Vancouver students on Sep 10, 2020.
I want to take an opportunity to welcome you all to this new term at UBC. Whether you are new to UBC or a student who is returning, this school year is, without a doubt, beginning differently than what you had originally envisioned. I want to assure you that everyone at UBC (faculty, administration, and staff) has been working incredibly hard to ensure your experience with us, albeit different than usual, is still excellent.
First of all, welcome to the new scholars who are joining us this year. Adding to the colourful fabric of this community are over 13,000 students of diverse ages, nationalities, and interests. We are so excited to have you with us. Be sure to check out the New to UBC Guide to familiarize yourself with everything available to you as a UBC student.
To our returning students – UBC and the world certainly look much different than they did at this time last year. I know many of you are coming into this term with questions and, perhaps, some uncertainties. While we may not have all the answers at this time, trust me when I say that it is our top priority to ensure all UBC students have what they need for a successful year ahead.
As you all know, we are facing unprecedented times. A global pandemic has gripped the world and left behind unthinkable human tragedy. COVID-19 has changed everything that we have grown to appreciate and enjoy—hanging out with friends, going to sporting events, and traveling to different parts of the world.
We understand how difficult this must be for so many of our students, faculty and staff.
But we also know, this is a public health crisis that requires shared responsibility. Each of us has an important role to play to combat this virus. Whether you join us this term in Vancouver or online, we ask that you abide by the public health advice in your location.
Please know UBC is here to support you. In addition to moving classes online, we are working to ensure access to research facilities where possible and provide experiential study components that are required in new formats or in smaller cohorts. We have also pivoted access to the many resources, services, and opportunities offered at UBC to be available in a predominantly virtual format. Visit students.ubc.ca and keeplearning.ubc.ca to learn more.
Once again, a heartfelt welcome to this term at UBC. We look forward to the days when we can once again celebrate and enjoy each other’s company in person. In the meantime, I hope you will consider joining me at this year’s Virtual Homecoming, which will bring together UBC students and alumni in a festive celebration to kick off the academic year!
Finally, remember to reach out and seek support when you need it. We are all in this together.