Student Stories

Hello! My name is Christianah (she/her), and I’m in my 5th year of Integrated Sciences, studying Human Physiology and Public Health.

As an out-of-province student from Winnipeg, Manitoba, it’s been a privilege to study at UBC. I’m currently a Senior Residence Advisor at Walter Gage Residence and have been an RA for the past three years. It’s been an incredible opportunity to build strong communities and help students feel at home on campus. I especially love planning events and creating a safe space from day one—move-in day.

In addition to my role as an RA, I serve as the VP Academic for the Science Undergraduate Society, where I advocate for science students and plan exciting new initiatives. I also volunteer at BC Children’s Hospital, supporting children during their stay.

When I’m not working or studying, you’ll likely find me cafe hopping in search of the best matcha, exploring local bakeries (I’m obsessed with croissants!), or reading a good book. I also love singing, hosting friends, and cooking.

Hello, my name is David, and I’m a 3rd-year PhD candidate in Chemistry.

This is my second year as a Residence Advisor, and the journey has been both rewarding and transformative. Working alongside incredible teams and supporting residents has allowed me to grow immensely, both personally and professionally. I’ve developed valuable skills in leadership, communication, and conflict resolution, all while fostering a sense of belonging in our community.

Having lived on three different continents, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. UBC has been an incredible place to continue my academic journey and connect with people from all walks of life. Outside of my academic and residence responsibilities, I stay active by going to the gym, exploring local trails on hikes, or biking through Vancouver’s scenic routes.

In addition to my PhD studies, I also serve as a Teaching Assistant, leading undergraduate organic chemistry labs. Teaching is a passion of mine, and I enjoy helping students develop their confidence and curiosity in the lab. Being part of both the academic and residence communities has been a truly enriching experience, and I’m excited to continue creating positive connections at UBC.

Hi my name is Evelyne, and I am a Residence Advisor at Place Vanier.

Starting my first year in residence was a big adjustment, just as it is for many students. It took time, support, and courage to find my rhythm, but what helped me the most were the many resources available on campus.

My first UBC resource was my Resident Advisor (RA). Moving in two weeks late, I only knew my roommate. After my first chat with my RA, I felt more positive about living away from home. I started attending residence events where I connected with other residents and learned valuable skills.

Whenever I needed guidance, my RA pointed me to the right resource making my transition much easier. I chose to become an RA because I experienced firsthand the value of having an RA during my first year. After successfully navigating that year, I felt inspired to give back and help others find a sense of belonging at UBC, just as I did.

Being an RA has been an incredible experience. Getting to know my residents has been amazing—they’re such kind, talented, and passionate people, and I do my best to show up for them in the capacity that they need. In addition UBC’s student housing provides a supportive and healthy work environment, with supervisors who are truly committed to our growth and success.

Given the opportunity to make independent decisions following set guidelines or collaborate in programming events for your community, the RA role greatly enhances your confidence, critical thinking skills while also allowing you to form lasting friendships with fellow RAs.

Hey everyone! My name is Mohamed, and I’m a Residence Advisor at Totem Park. I’m in my second year studying political science, and I plan to minor in commerce. I’m from Cairo, Egypt, and I grew up in Dubai, UAE.

A year ago today, I was sitting in my room filling out my RA application, thinking nothing of it. Later in the year, when I was offered the position, I was excited to start a new role, but I couldn’t have predicted the memories I would continue to make.

As a resident, I had always been interested in Residence Life, and the individuals behind the scenes who worked to ensure my life was running smoothly, and who ensured that I felt supported and heard. Just knowing this made me certain I wanted to be part of a team like that. Now, as an RA, I feel as though I have been able to foster such an environment where residents feel comfortable, uplifted, and excited to be part of their community!

Being an RA has been a wonderful time so far; a dinner table full of RAs, long-lasting memories, and genuine friends. Most of all, interacting with residents and watching them develop personalities and become their person is by far the best reward associated with this position.

As a first-time RA, I am excited to see where the position takes me with an open heart and mind!

Hi! My name is Nusaibah Hossain, and I’m a Residence Advisor at Place Vanier.

As an international student from Bangladesh, finding a sense of home was so important to me when I first arrived at UBC. Residence Life quickly became that home away from home, and seeing how my own RAs fostered a supportive and welcoming community made me admire the role even more. In my first year, I lived in Vanier, where I eagerly joined my residence council and immediately felt connected to the community around me.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege of advising at Place Vanier in both my second and now third year at UBC. This experience has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my university journey. It’s given me the chance to create a welcoming and inclusive space for residents while also pushing me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. From planning events to offering support in everyday moments, I’ve been able to make a positive impact on my community while developing essential leadership, conflict resolution, and time management skills.

One of the best parts of this role has been forming deep connections with residents and fellow RAs. Every conversation, shared meal, and event has helped me build a strong sense of belonging here. It’s a privilege to be part of such a supportive environment where I can both learn and give back to the community that welcomed me from the start.

Hi! I’m Peter King, and I’m a Senior Residence Advisor at Totem Park.

My journey in residence life started in my 2nd year at university. The friends I made in the Residence Life community that year have become some of my closest friends throughout my time at university. As I progressed in my studies, I was able to step into the Senior RA role and start to work on my leadership capabilities.

Being an RA has been a deeply fulfilling opportunity, because I get to see my residents develop as they enter university. My pathway through university was not linear; I changed faculties from Science to Art, and halfway through my degree I took a gap year to work and travel. Being an RA allows me to share what I’ve learned with residents and encourage them to reflect on their lives in a way I wish I had been asked to.