Julius – University of British Columbia
Semester 2, 2024
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/ Bachelor of Science
Going on exchange to the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO) during the 2024 Fall Semester was one of the best decisions I have ever made. This transformative experience allowed me to immerse myself in Canadian culture while traveling and making lifelong friends from around the world. Over the semester, I was fortunate to witness the vibrant colors of a Canadian summer, fall, and winter, each bringing its own unique charm to my journey.
Living on Campus
Living on campus was an incredible experience. While there were 30 exchange students at UBCO, each residence house was shared by just four people. I was lucky to share my house with three amazing individuals who became some of my closest mates. The small group dynamic made it easy to form deep connections, and the time spent together created friendships I will cherish for a lifetime.
View from my residence on campus during Summer
This exchange not only ignited a newfound addiction to traveling but also made me fall in love with Kelowna. The vibrant community, stunning natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences have made me seriously consider moving there in the future.
University Life
UBCO’s campus life was nothing short of amazing. The proximity of the residence to classes made my days incredibly efficient and allowed me to spend more time enjoying what the campus had to offer. From the intramural volleyball team to the on-campus gym and running trails, the university provided countless opportunities to stay active and social. Playing volleyball with the friends I had made during the exchange was a highlight of my time at UBCO.
Our intramural volleyball team ”The KBC Kangaroos”
Academically, I appreciated the smaller class sizes and the high school-like structure of learning. This intimate environment allowed for one-on-one interactions with professors, making the learning experience deeply engaging and personal.
Exploring Kelowna
Kelowna is a picturesque town surrounded by nature, offering endless opportunities to explore. During the summer, I spent my days hiking and swimming in Okanagan Lake. Wednesday nights were reserved for 75-cent wings and karaoke at the Kelowna Brewing Company—a local spot that became a staple for my friends and me.
Kelowna Brewing Company with friends
The fall season brought a magical transformation to Kelowna, with colorful leaves, pumpkin patches, and festive Halloween celebrations. I even carved my first pumpkin, which was a highlight of the season. Witnessing the northern lights during this time was an unforgettable experience and a major bucket-list moment.
Seeing the Northern Lights
Our Halloween pumpkin
Winter in Kelowna was like stepping into a postcard. Seeing the campus and surrounding areas blanketed in snow right from my bedroom window was surreal. I spent most of the winter skiing and snowboarding with newfound friends at world-class resorts
like Big White and Silver Star. The winter hikes were equally breathtaking, offering stunning views of snow-covered landscapes.
View from the top of Big White
Posing infront of the sunset
Sign atop Big White mountain
Travels Beyond Kelowna
My exchange also gave me the chance to travel extensively. A trip to Banff with 20 other exchange students was the highlight of my experience. Canoeing on Lake Moraine, surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever witnessed, was absolutely unforgettable.
A collage of photos from Banff
Group of us at Banff
Canooing on Lake Moraine
I also traveled to Vancouver, Montreal (Bonjour!), Toronto, Niagara Falls, and many other places. Each destination offered its own unique charm, from the bustling cityscapes to serene natural wonders.
A photo of us infront of Niagara Falls
A Life-Changing Experience
Going on exchange to UBCO was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The chance to experience Canadian culture, explore stunning natural landscapes, and make lifelong friends from around the globe was unforgettable. If you’re considering an exchange, take the leap—you won’t regret it!
Find out more on how you can apply: Student Exchange.
