International Student Handbook VANCOUVE R  2 01 2/1 3
Contacts INTERNATIONAL STUDENT DEVELOPMENT
1783 West Mall Tel: 604.822.5021 E-mail: international.house@ubc.ca www.students.ubc.ca/international
GO GLOBAL: INTERNATIONAL LEARNING PROGRAMS 1783 West Mall, Top Floor Tel: 604.822.0942 E-mail go.global@ubc.ca www.students.ubc.ca/global
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT INITIATIVE 1200 - 1874 East Mall Tel: 604.822.8999 www.you.ubc.ca/vancouver
FACULTIES FACULTY OF APPLIED SCIENCE
Bhavani Veylan, International Student Coordinator Engineering Student Services 1100–2332 Main Mall Tel: 604.822.5076 E-mail: bhavani.veylan@ubc.ca www.engineering.ubc.ca
FACULTY OF ARTS
Leanne Kearns, International Academic Advisor Robert Tudhope, International Academic Advisor Natasha Nobell, International Academic Advisor Arts Academic Advising 1866 Main Mall, Buchanan, Block D111 Tel: 604.822.4028 E-mail: Arts.International@ubc.ca www.students.arts.ubc.ca
SAUDER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS (COMMERCE)
Wally Mitchell, International Student Coordinator Tel: 604.822.4751 E-mail: wally.mitchell@sauder.ubc.ca Jamie Tooze, International Student Coordinator Tel: 604.822.9525 E-mail: jamie.tooze@sauder.ubc.ca 2053 Main Mall, Henry Angus Building www.sauder.ubc.ca
FACULTY OF DENTISTRY
FACULTY OF SCIENCE
FACULTY OF EDUCATION
JOINT ACADEMIC PROGRAMS UBC – RITSUMEIKAN ACADEMIC EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Dr. Ravindra M. Shah, Director, International Relations 352–2199 Wesbrook Mall Tel: 604.822.3413 E-mail: rmsh@interchange.ubc.ca www.dentistry.ubc.ca
Gary Rupert, Program Coordinator, Teacher Education Office 103–2125 Main Mall Tel: 604.822.2214 E-mail: gary.rupert@ubc.ca www.teach.educ.ubc.ca
FACULTY OF FORESTRY
Forestry Student Services 2609–2424 Main Mall Tel: 604.822.1834 E-mail: advising@forestry.ubc.ca Yuko Ikegami Lee, International Recruitment Officer 2617–2424 Main Mall Tel: 604.827-5195 E-mail: yuko.lee@ubc.ca www.forestry.ubc.ca
FACULTY OF GRADUATE STUDIES 170–6371 Crescent Road Tel: 604.822.2848 Email: graduate.inquiry@ubc.ca www.grad.ubc.ca
SCHOOL OF HUMAN KINETICS
Fran Harrison, Undergraduate Program Administrator War Memorial Gym 202 Tel: 604.822.4512 E-mail: hkin.advising@ubc.ca www.hkin.educ.ubc.ca
COLLEGE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
Dr. Jane Roskams, Associate Principal 3309–2350 Health Sciences Mall Tel: 604.822.2932 Email: cfis.roskams@ubc.ca www.cfis.ubc.ca
FACULTY OF LAND AND FOOD SYSTEMS
Roxana Quinde, Global Partnerships Coordinator 344C–2357 Main Mall Tel: 604.822.0181 E-mail: roxana.quinde@ubc.ca www.landfood.ubc.ca
Stacey Simpson, International Student Coordinator A150–6221 University Boulevard Tel: 604.822.3656 E-mail: simpson@science.ubc.ca www.science.ubc.ca/stud ents
Sheri Wenman, Program Manager 333–6460 Agronomy Road Tel: 604.822.9511 E-mail: sheri.wenman@ubc.ca www.ubcritsumeikan.com
KOREA UNIVERSITY – UBC JOINT ACADEMIC PROGRAM
Rebeca Lau, Program Manager 6253 NW Marine Drive, Room 220 Tel: 604.822.8892 E-mail: rebeca.lau@ubc.ca www.ku.ubc.ca
TEC DE MONTERREY – UBC JOINT ACADEMIC PROGRAM
Cecilia Sandoval, Director 6253 NW Marine Drive, Room 220 Tel: 604.822.0266 E-mail: cecilia.sandoval@ubc.ca www.tec.ubc.ca
International Student Handbook VANCO UV ER 201 2/ 1 3 Content: International Student Development Design and editorial: Student Communications Services Photos/illustrations: Tim Blonk (cover photo), Martin Dee, Russ Heinl, Ka-Kei Law, Leanne Prain, Andrea Schmidt, Lindsay Todd, Marjolein Visser, Meg Whetung, Jamil Rhajiak, Darin Dueck, David Yuen, Varun Saran Date: August 2012 Also available in an alternate format. For the online version, visit www.students.ubc.ca/international
WELCOME! 5 About Vancouver 6 Finding your way around 6 Orientations & transition 7
SERVICES FOR STUDENTS 9 International Student Development (ISD) 10 Go Global: International Learning Programs 10 Getting help 10 International House (I. House) 10 Enrolment Services 11 Faculty of Graduate Studies 11 Alma Mater Society (AMS) 12 Graduate Student Society (GSS) 13 International Students Association (ISA) 13 First Nations House of Learning 14
ACADEMIC LIFE 15 UBCcard 16 Registration 16 Information technology on campus 16 English language support 17 Academic support 18 UBC’s academic culture 19 Academic integrity & plagiarism 22
HOUSING 23 UBC residence 24 Off-campus housing 25
TRANSPORTATION 29 Public transit 30 U-Pass 30 Cycling 30 Driving 31
Check out The Best of UBC and a list of acronyms at the end of this book, as well as a transit map on the inside back cover.
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Making sense of immigration 34 Extending your permits 34 Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) 36 Applying for a study permit while you are in Canada 36 Travelling outside of Canada 36 Returning to Canada 37 Visiting the United States 37 Taking a break from your studies 37 Staying in Canada as a visitor 37 Documents for family members 38 Lost or stolen passports 39
WORKING & VOLUNTEERING 40 Can I work in Canada? 41 Working on campus 41 Working off campus 41 Co-ops & internships 43 Employment for spouses & partners 44 Post-graduation employment 44 Staying in Canada 46 Social Insurance Number (SIN) 46 Finding a job 47 Career planning 47 Volunteering 48
MONEY MATTERS 50 Financial assistance, scholarships & awards 51 Banking 51 Shopping 52 Income tax 54
HEALTH INSURANCE & HEALTH CARE 56 Health insurance 57 iMED: Health insurance for new international students 58 BC’s Medical Services Plan (MSP) 60 AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan 62
CONTENTS
IMMIGRATION 33
Health care in Canada 62
WELLNESS 64 Good health, good grades 65 Reach out for support when you need assistance 65 Counselling Services 65 Peer support 66 Cultural transitions 67 Understanding Canadians 67 Faith & spirituality 68 Wellness Centre 68
COMMUNITY & RECREATION 70 Meeting people 71 Getting involved in campus life 71 Athletics 72 Exploring Vancouver & region 73 DIVERSITY & EQUITY 75 Resources at UBC 76 Sexual orientation & gender identity 78 Human rights 78
SAFETY 80 Staying safe 81 Safety resources 81 Sexual assault 82 Alcohol & other drugs 83
INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES 84 Activities for spouses & partners 85 Child care 85 Enrolling children in school 85 Parents’ rights & responsibilities 86 LIFE AFTER UBC 87 Returning home 88 UBC Alumni Affairs 88 Staying in Canada 89
ACRONYMS 90 THE BEST OF UBC 91 INDEX 92
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Message from the President
As excited as I hope you all are to begin your UBC experience, whether you’re early or advanced in your academic career, I suspect that some of you may also have a touch of apprehension over the transition you’re making. While a little apprehension is understandable, one of the ways to alleviate it might be to take a moment to remind yourself what a rare and precious time this is – one in which you have an unprecedented opportunity to interact with students from over 140 countries, and to experience deep personal growth and intellectual development within a vast spectrum of subjects. At the same time, I hope you will give thought to how you might take advantage of the resources and services that UBC provides to aid in your success. UBC offers various enriched educational experiences to provide you with practical hands-on learning opportunities. The challenge is to discover which of UBC’s experiential opportunities will best enhance your academic experience, and provide you with that additional margin of excellence in the years ahead. I encourage you to make many meaningful connections with the widest possible range of your fellow students, regardless of how broad or specific your area of study is. These friendships will not only contribute to a greater sense of community; they will also serve you well in the years to follow – maybe even a lifetime. And finally, I encourage you to generously share the unique gift that each of you brings, and that gift is your perspective. Indeed, the diverse perspectives of international students serve immeasurably to enhance the learning environment of all students, and help to prepare you for the challenges and opportunities of global citizenship. At the same time, be open and receptive to the diversity of views and opinions of your peers. If you do, I have every confidence that an enjoyable and enlightening experience awaits.
Stephen J. Toope President and Vice-Chancellor The University of British Columbia presidents.office@ubc.ca
On behalf of your university, I am pleased and honoured to welcome you, and to sincerely thank you for choosing UBC for the next leg of your academic journey. We are delighted you are here!
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Your first few weeks at UBC are going to be busy ones! Use this checklist to get settled in and to prepare for classes.
Attend orientation (p. 7) Find a place to live and move in (p. 23) Visit the Student Service Centre (SSC) at www.students.ubc.ca/ssc to update your address Pick up your UBCcard (p. 16) Get your phone and internet connected (in residence, p. 24; off campus, p. 27) Get your U-Pass (p. 30) Open a bank account (p. 51) Arrange for health insurance (p. 57) Explore Vancouver (p. 73)
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CONTENTS
Register for your courses (if you have not already done so), pay your fees, and buy your books
WELCOME!
Welcome!
How to use this handbook
The challenge of living in a new environment, socializing in a new culture, and studying on a new campus is exhilarating, but even the most adventurous students can use some help from time to time. This handbook aims to do just that – provide you with helpful guidance on everything from health insurance to exams to meeting people. You’ll find chapters that cover the major aspects of your UBC experience and contain valuable quick-reference contact lists and useful maps. During your first few months in Canada, this handbook will answer many of your questions, but you should also acquaint yourself with several other important sources of University information: • New Student Registration & Orientation Guide –
If you’re an undergraduate student, you received this guide with your offer of admission. You can also download it from www.students.ubc.ca/ newtoubc/downloads.cfm.
• Grad Guide – If you’re a graduate student, you received this student guide with your offer of admission. It’s also available at www.grad.ubc.ca/ current-students/newly-admitted/grad-guide. In addition, a PhD student handbook will be provided to new PhD students. • UBC Calendar – The Calendar contains important
information on University faculties, programs, regulations, and courses. It’s available at www.students.ubc.ca/calendar.
•w ww.events.ubc.ca – Check
out UBCevents throughout the year to stay informed about events in the UBC community that will help ease your transition.
• www.students.ubc.ca – This is your gateway to
a wealth of student resources. Add it to your internet browser’s bookmarks!
• www.students.ubc.ca/international – This is
your source for services specific to international students.
– This web page offers just-in-time information for first-year undergraduate students.
• newtoubc.students.ubc.ca
About Vancouver
Vancouver is a multicultural city; just under half of the city’s residents are immigrants and just over half speak a language other than English as their native tongue. The population of the City of Vancouver is 603,502. Vancouver is part of a larger metropolitan area known as Metro Vancouver. With a population of 2,313,328 (2011 census), Metro Vancouver is the largest
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metropolitan area in Western Canada and the third-largest in the country. To learn more about Vancouver, visit Tourism Vancouver (www.tourismvancouver.com) or the Newcomer’s Guide to the City of Vancouver (vancouver.ca/commsvcs/socialplanning/ newtovancouver).
THE POST OFFICE
Canada Post (www.canadapost.ca) is the Canadian mail service. At UBC, Canada Post has an outlet located in the Outpost store in the Student Union building (SUB). It is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. You can buy stamps, send mail, buy packaging, rent a postal box, or send mail by courier.
TELEPHONES
In the Vancouver area, you must dial all 10 digits of local phone numbers – this includes the area code (typically 604 or 778). A local phone call costs 25 cents with a public phone. If you don’t have coins, you can dial 0 to call collect (i.e., ask the person you are phoning to pay for the call). The cost of a long-distance call from a public phone varies according to the duration and destination of the call. Long-distance phone cards are available at convenience stores; each has a given value that is deducted as you talk. Ask other students from your home country or search online to find phone cards with good rates. To use a phone card, dial the numbers provided on the card – do not insert the card into the phone. Many students connect with family and friends using internet services such as Skype.
Finding your way around ON CAMPUS
UBC’s Point Grey campus is big, but getting around is easy once you know how streets are named and have identified a few landmarks. The main north-south streets on campus are called malls: Lower Mall, West Mall, Main Mall, East Mall, and Wesbrook Mall. The two main eastwest streets are called boulevards: University Boulevard and Thunderbird Boulevard. Many UBC streets are closed to cars.
AROUND VANCOUVER
The city is divided into an east side and a west side. This division happens roughly at Main Street. East Broadway is east of Main Street and West Broadway is west of Main Street. Streets generally go north-south. Avenues generally go east-west. Most avenues have
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
WELCOME! CONTENTS
numbers for names (10th, 11th, 12th Avenues). Broadway is the same as 9th Avenue. University Boulevard, the main east-west road on campus, is an extension of 10th Avenue. Avenue numbers increase as you travel south. Vancouver’s downtown core is on a peninsula. Downtown Vancouver includes the West End, Coal Harbour, and Yaletown, and is surrounded by ocean, parks, and a spectacular view of the mountains. This area boasts the reputation of being one of the most beautiful places in the world to live. The UBC campus is located about 30 minutes by bus from downtown Vancouver. It sits on about 400 hectares of indigenous forest overlooking the Strait of Georgia.
Orientations & transition
There’s a lot to learn when you first arrive on a new campus. Attending orientation and transition programs is the fastest and easiest way to adjust to UBC life, acquaint yourself with campus services, and make friendships that will last beyond your time at UBC. International undergraduate students entering their first year at UBC are expected to attend Jump Start, a comprehensive first-year transition program designed to set you up for success in all aspects of your university life.
JUMP START
Unique to UBC, Jump Start is for new international and Aboriginal students. It begins with a two-week intensive immersion program in August that will prepare you for UBC’s unique learning environment and the specific expectations of your faculty, as well as provide you with the practical information you need to settle into your new life.
The program will continue to support you throughout your first academic year through small learning communities where you will receive ongoing academic coaching, peer-to-peer support and guidance on maintaining a happy and healthy life at the University. Transitioning to university life is difficult enough for any new student. International and Aboriginal
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students are faced with the added pressure of having to acclimatize to a new culture and academic system. Jump Start is crafted to recognize the unique needs and challenges and assist you in overcoming pressure by guiding you through academic differences, connecting you to the broader UBC community and equipping you to achieve success in all aspects of your life at UBC.
JENNY CHAN Class of 2013 Home country: Macau/South Africa Degree: Bachelor of Commerce Specialization: Accounting
Below are some key programs and dates; additional activities will be added later. Visit newtoubc.students.ubc.ca/get-orientated for in-depth, up-to-date information.
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS UBC Jump Start Two-week immersion program: August 16–29, 2012 Year-long transition program: September 2012– April 2013 International Parent Reception (for parents with students attending Jump Start) August 16–17, 2012 International Welcome September 2–3, 2012 International Parent Reception (for parents with students attending International Welcome) September 2, 2012 Imagine UBC September 4, 2012 UBC FYI Blog Sent biweekly to all undergraduate students throughout the academic year – visit blog.students.ubc.ca/ubcfyi/
GRADUATE STUDENTS
Graduate student orientation August 30, 2012 (A special session for international graduate students will be held on August 31, with additional events throughout September 1–2) January 2013 (check orientation.grad.ubc.ca for dates and information)
ALL STUDENTS
AMS Firstweek September 1–8, 2012
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The most challenging aspect about my transition to UBC was adapting to a new environment all by myself. It was difficult to learn about a new culture and country while balancing my heavy course load. In the beginning, I felt lost and helpless. I overcame this challenge by becoming proactive and finding many resources available at UBC to help me with the various issues that I was facing (from AMS tutors, to International Peer Advisors, to simply talking to my friends). It’s also important to maintain a positive attitude because things will get better with time. Recent achievements: Working as president of the International Student Association of Sauder School of Business; representing active student leaders at a meeting with President Stephen Toope.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
UBC offers many support services to help you master the challenges of university life. The departments, groups, and programs outlined in this chapter can help make your UBC experience successful and rewarding. Take advantage of them!
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
Where to go for your international student questions
s
How to connect with other undergraduates
s
Your student union, the Alma Mater Society, and its services
s
The International Students Association, which represents and advocates for the needs of international students
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SERVICES FOR STUDENTS
Services for Students
International Student Development (ISD)
International Student Development works to ensure that you can be fully engaged within the University community. We provide advising and programs for international students, and we promote intercultural learning for all UBC students. International student advisors at International House (I. House – see below) are the starting point and your best source for almost all international student questions. International student advisors can help you and your family with immigration (study permits and entry visas), employment (work permits and Social Insurance Number, or SIN), health insurance (iMED, MSP, AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan), adjustment to life at UBC, safety, and anything else related to your life as an international student. International student advisors also provide extensive programs to support international students, including Jump Start, the Global Lounge (see p. 72), this handbook, our website, and much more. Call 604.822.5021, email isa@students. ☞ ubc.ca, or visit I. House to get in touch with
an international student advisor. Advisors are available to meet with you on a drop-in basis from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Go Global: International Learning Programs
If you want to enrich your education by learning abroad, Go Global can answer your questions. As a UBC student, you can: travel abroad with a UBC professor and a small group of classmates for location-based UBC courses; study or conduct research at one of UBC’s prestigious partner universities; or volunteer abroad with a non-profit organization in Africa or Latin America. If you are an exchange student, Go Global can also help
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with course registration, course load decisions, and academic, family, or medical emergencies. To learn more about Go Global programs and services, visit www.students.ubc.ca/global or visit I. House.
Getting help INTERNATIONAL PEER ADVISORS (IPAs)
Have a question or need some help? International peer advisors are trained student leaders who can advise you on immigration, health insurance, employment, and campus services. To contact them, email peer.advisor@ubc.ca, or find them at I. House or elsewhere on campus (schedule online at www.students.ubc.ca/international/ get-involved/international-peer-advisors).
JOINT ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
If you are in the Ritsumeikan-, Korea University-, or Tec de Monterrey-UBC programs, your program coordinator is here for you. See the inside front cover of this handbook for contact information.
ADVISORS IN YOUR FACULTY
Many faculties have international coordinators who deal specifically with international students and your academic concerns. Faculties and departments usually also have academic advisors who advise all students on academic matters. Both can help you register for courses, select your major, make the most of your interactions with professors, and many other academic matters. For contact information, see the inside front cover of this handbook.
International House (I. House)
I. House is an intercultural learning centre open to all members of UBC and their families. If you want to meet people from around the world and share your culture, I. House is a great place to start.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
SERVICES FOR STUDENTS
I. House is surrounded by a peaceful garden and offers computers, meeting spaces, and a study corner. Bring your laptop and enjoy UBC’s wireless internet access. At I. House, you can participate in ☞ English language classes; browse the travel
library; and attend multicultural events and celebrations. You can subscribe to the I. House Community Update (www.students. ubc.ca/international/get-involved) to find out what’s happening in UBC’s international community.
I. House welcomes Canadian and international students alike. You or your student group can book space at I. House for events or ongoing programs. Please check with I. House staff to book space. To get in touch with the I. House front desk, see the inside front cover for contact details. Until you have your own local address ☞ in Canada, you can use I. House as a temporary forwarding address for your mail. Mail will be held for three months before it is returned to its sender. You can pick up your mail during office hours. Sorry, parcels cannot be accepted.
COME TO I. HOUSE IF…
You’re looking for • Study and service learning opportunities outside of Canada • ESL classes • Off-campus housing • Muslim Friday Prayers You want to make a difference by • Sharing your culture • Learning about other cultures and world issues • Participating in international service learning and research You have questions about
• Immigration
• Employment • Health • Taxes
insurance
• Adjusting
to life at UBC
You want to abroad to study, volunteer, or conduct research • Have Christmas dinner with friends • Go
You’re planning for life after UBC by intercultural leadership skills • Connecting with UBC alumni • Developing
Enrolment Services
Located in Brock Hall, Enrolment Services can help you navigate the administrative side of your degree. You can stop by the main floor of Brock Hall for information on fees, transcripts, financial advising, your student record, and more.
ENROLMENT SERVICES SUPPORT
All new undergraduate first-year students at the Vancouver campus will be assigned an Enrolment Services Professional (ESP). This ESP is a specialist who will provide you with personalized service for registration, tuition, financial support and much more. Your ESP will work with you throughout your entire time at UBC and connect you with your campus community and the wide range of services and opportunities available to you. You can also access many of these services online. Visit the websites below to get started. • Student
Service Centre: www.students.ubc.ca/ssc
• Student
Services (current students): www.students.ubc.ca
Faculty of Graduate Studies
The Faculty of Graduate Studies is the academic unit that formally admits graduate students and grants graduate degrees. It is also the administrative unit that supports and serves graduate students and programs across the UBC Vancouver campus. The Faculty of Graduate Studies provides the graduate community with centralized services that include application, admissions, student records, scholarships, coordination of doctoral exams, thesis submission, professional development, and graduation. Many student questions about these topics can be answered at www.grad.ubc.ca or by emailing your question to
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graduate.inquiry@ubc.ca. The Faculty website also contains sections with specific information for international students www.grad.ubc.ca/ prospective-students/international-students. The Faculty also assists students in managing problems with their programs, including conflicts with supervisors. They are always available to hear from graduate students who are experiencing difficulties and will strive to be of assistance. The Faculty holds two orientation sessions a year specifically for incoming graduate students. These are held on different days than the orientations for undergraduates and include special components for international graduate students. Visit the www. grad.ubc.ca website section for “Newly Admitted” students for more information. The Faculty’s award-winning Graduate Pathways to Success program (GPS) has offerings which cover a wide range of personal and professional development topics to support you throughout your time in graduate school and to allow you to develop some of the skills and competencies needed to thrive as professionals and to make meaningful contributions to society. www.grad.ubc.ca/gps An essential point of contact for graduate students is your graduate program office. Your graduate staff member(s) can tell you about academic deadlines, direct you to personal and academic resources, financial assistance, and much more. If you are
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interested in becoming a teaching assistant (TA), be sure to talk to your supervisor at your earliest opportunity, or ask program graduate staff to direct you to application information on your program’s website. Two internationally-recognized residential graduate colleges, Green College (www.greencollege. ubc.ca) and St. John’s College (www.stjohns. ubc.ca) are also part of the Faculty, as is the Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program (www.isgp.ubc.ca). In addition the Faculty is home to the Postdoctoral Fellows Office (PDFO www.grad.ubc.ca/postdocs), in service to UBC’s more than 800 postdoctoral fellows.
Alma Mater Society (AMS) The AMS is your student union – it has been representing UBC students since 1915. Over the years, the AMS has worked with dedicated students to implement many successful services and benefits for your student community. The health and dental plan, U-Pass, Safewalk, Speakeasy, tutoring, and Advocacy Office are all services that are specifically designed to make UBC a safe and welcoming new home. To see a full list of the clubs, services, and businesses that are owned by UBC students, visit www.ams.ubc. ca. For social media, follow the AMS on Twitter @ AMS_UBC, or like their Facebook page /UBCAMS.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
When it comes to decision-making at the University and in government, the AMS is your voice. To get involved, contact your Vice President for Academic and University Affairs at 604.822.3092 or vpacademic@ams.ubc.ca.
AMS SERVICES Advocacy Office
Assistance for students who are in conflict with the University.
p. 76
AMS Volunteer Connect
Online postings for volunteer positions and more.
p. 49
CiTR Radio
Student-run community radio at 101.9 FM.
Clubs
With over 300 clubs to choose from, there’s bound to be one that suits your interests.
p. 71
Firstweek
A series of fun events during the first week of school.
p. 8
Food Bank
Emergency food relief for current UBC students. www.ams.ubc.ca/services/ ams-food-bank
Minischool
Graduate Student Society (GSS)
The Graduate Student Society of Vancouver represents and advocates on behalf of graduate students to the University, local and regional governments, and to the public. The GSS-V promotes graduate student representation on all decision making bodies at UBC’s Vancouver campus. It advocates for adequate student scholarships, bursaries, loans and other forms of financial support. As well, it works with UBC to improve the graduate student experience both academically and culturally. Graduate students facing academic issues can be assisted through the GSS Advocacy Office. The GSS also provides academic, professional, social, and recreational services to graduate students and operates the Thea Koerner House Graduate Student Centre. Graduate students are able to book rooms in Thea Koerner House free of charge. GSS-V services include summer sports leagues, a film and food series, cultural events, social gatherings like ski trips at special rates, and academic, career, and recreational workshops. All graduate students at UBC Vancouver are automatically members of the GSS-V. To find out more about GSS events and services, visit www.gss.ubc.ca or call 604.822.3203.
Fun courses on everything under the sun – from first aid to bartending. www.ams.ubc.ca/services/ ams-minischool
Norm Theatre
Movies and screenings at student-friendly prices. www.ams.ubc.ca/ campus-life/norm-theatre
Rentsline
Online directory for off-campus housing.
p. 26
Safewalk
Foot patrol to accompany you anywhere on campus.
p. 81
SASC
Non-judgmental, caring support for anyone who has been subject to sexual assault. Support is also provided to the friends and family members of victims.
p. 82
Speakeasy
Campus information, peer support, and referrals.
p. 66
Tutoring
A service that connects students with academic assistance from qualified tutors.
p. 18
Be sure to pick up a copy of the ☞ AMS Insider, a student day planner and
guidebook. This handy book contains a list of all the student clubs, tips on how to make the most of student life, and lots of coupons. You can pick one up at I. House, in Brock Hall, or in the SUB.
International Students Association (ISA)
The International Students Association of UBC (ISA) represents and integrates the international student community, advocates for its needs and
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SERVICES FOR STUDENTS
This year, the AMS began construction on a brand-new, LEED Platinum+ certified Student Union Building (SUB). The world’s greenest student union building is scheduled to open in August 2014.
creates a space for interaction and cross-cultural awareness. The ISA is a student-led initiative that bridges the gaps between the international students and the AMS, the student societies and other governing bodies regarding issues that affect the international community on campus. The ISA organizes events throughout the year that inform international students about how the University works for them and how they can take part in and be active in shaping their own UBC experience. Also, the ISA participates in first year orientations and plans engaging social events with international themes to which all students are welcome. For more information check out the Facebook group (International Students Association UBC), email isa@ubcinternational.ca or visit www.ubcinternational.ca.
First Nations House of Learning
The First Nations House of Learning has a wide variety of resources for Aboriginal students, faculty, and staff. Located in the Longhouse, a unique building that reflects the architectural traditions of the Northwest Coast, the House of Learning offers student services, a computer lab, social space, and Xwi7xwa Library. Throughout the year a variety of cultural, academic and social events are held and Indigenous international students are encouraged to attend and connect with the Aboriginal community on campus. The Longhouse is located at 1985 West Mall. For more information, visit www.longhouse.ubc.ca or call 604.822.8940.
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Academic Life
Be proactive by visiting your professor during office hours when you have questions about course material or assignments. Participate in a few recreational activities, including clubs and sports, as a way to have fun and meet new people. Having a community of support can help you succeed academically.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
Programs designed to help improve your English
s
Where to go for library tutorials and tutoring
s
The academic culture of UBC and Canada
s
Why academic integrity is so important and how to avoid plagiarism
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CONTENTS
Make sure you understand the dates and requirements of your assignments and exams. Write the important deadlines on a calendar and plan ahead – this will save you time and frustration.
ACADEMIC LIFE
TIPS FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS Introduce yourself to one or two people in your classes. Plan to study together, share notes, or help each other if you ever need to miss class.
UBCcard
not count toward the minimum number of credits needed to receive awards or loans.
MAKING CHANGES AFTER CLASSES HAVE STARTED
Once classes have started, you can still add new courses or drop existing ones. The deadlines for making these changes are as follows.
Adding and dropping courses The UBCcard is the University’s official identification card. It identifies UBC students and gives them access to library loans and services, student housing, meal plans, recreational facilities and more. New students who have already registered for at least one class may obtain their UBCcards at no cost by completing the online application form at www.ubccard.ubc.ca/students.html. Please note that you will need the following to apply: 1. A Campus-Wide Login username and password 2. A digital photo of yourself (front view against a white background) All students are required to visit the Carding Office (located in the UBC Bookstore) in person to pick up their UBCcards, and must show government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) at that time. Students without government-issued photo ID will not be able to retrieve their cards.
Registration
For detailed instructions on how to register for courses, see your New Student Registration & Orientation Guide or visit www.students.ubc.ca/ coursesreg/academic-planning/resources/. Helpful registration tutorials are also available on the Student Service Centre (www.students. ubc.ca/ssc). For personal registration assistance, call 604.822.9836 or 1.877.272.1422 (toll-free in Canada and the United States). Exchange students should consult a Go Global advisor for registration information.
WHAT TO DO WHEN A COURSE IS FULL
If a course you want is full, find another section of the same course. If all sections are full, select a waitlist section (if available), choose another course, or see if the instructor or the department is keeping a waitlist. If you are registered in a waitlist section, continue to check the SSC for changes in registration before classes start or show up on the first day of classes to see if space is available. Waitlisted courses are included in your maximum credit allotment for the term or session but do
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Course type
Deadline
Term 1 and Term A (Distance Education) courses
September 18, 2012
Full-year courses
September 21, 2012
Term 2 and Term C (Distance Education) courses
January 14, 2013
If you decide to drop a course after the deadlines outlined above, you are withdrawing from it. This means that a withdrawal (W) will be noted on your transcript. The deadlines for withdrawing from courses are as follows.
Withdrawing from courses Course type
Deadline
Term 1 and Term A (Distance Education) courses
October 12, 2012
Full-year courses
November 23, 2012
Term 2 and Term C (Distance Education) courses
February 8, 2013
Dates for the academic year are available at www.students.ubc.ca/calendar/academicyear.cfm.
Information technology on campus CAMPUS-WIDE LOGIN (CWL)
Your CWL account allows you to sign in to a number of campus services, including the Student Service Centre and UBC wireless, with a single username and password. Sign up for your CWL account or get more information at www.it.ubc.ca/ cwl. If you need help creating a CWL account, contact the IT Service Centre at 604.822.2008.
UBC EMAIL ACCOUNTS
All undergraduate students are eligible for a free UBC email address. Please visit www.it.ubc.ca/ studentemail for details.
WIRELESS
Sign on to UBC’s wireless network with your CWL account. Visit www.it.ubc.ca/wireless to get connected.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
IT SERVICE CENTRE HELP DESK
E-LEARNING
COMPUTER FACILITIES
On campus, students can access computers equipped with Microsoft Office at many of the UBC Libraries, including the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre and Koerner Library. Public access terminals are also available in the Student Union Building (SUB). Most faculties and schools also have computer labs. To find your faculty’s computer lab, visit www.learningcommons.ubc. ca/get-teched-up/computer-labs.
English language support ACADEMIC ENGLISH SUPPORT
Could you use some free, professional help with all that reading or with writing, with getting good notes from lectures, with participating more in seminars or with speaking clearly?
Sign up, provide some diagnostic information then meet with a UBC English language teaching specialist – your English language coach. Your coach will review your information and have a draft learning plan ready for you to discuss, and agree on priorities. The plan will include carefully selected self-study websites and/or short, focused courses, mostly online. Your coach will check in on your progress through the plan and give you some individual coaching where needed. Find out more at www.aes.ubc.ca.
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY INDEX (LPI)
With the exception of those in the Faculty of Arts, almost all first-year programs at UBC have requirements for written English study. Take time to find out what requirements apply to you and prepare for taking the relevant courses. Deadlines for taking the LPI depend on where you have been studying before arriving at UBC. There are different dates for students who have studied in BC, in the rest of Canada or outside Canada.
For details of UBC Vancouver first-year English requirements and LPI exemptions, visit the first-year English website: www.english.ubc.ca/ ugrad/1styear. Contact your faculty advising office if you have problems passing the LPI.
FIRST-YEAR ENGLISH PREREQUISITES
If you are an undergraduate, you will probably be required to take a 100-level English course in your first year at UBC, unless you are in the Faculty of Arts. To register for first-year English courses you must either meet one of the course prerequisites (www.english.ubc.ca/ugrad/1styear/3_2009.htm) or pass the Language Proficiency Index (LPI) test.
FACULTY OF ARTS
Undergraduates in the Faculty of Arts do not require first-year English. Instead they must fulfill the Writing and Research requirement (www.arts.ubc.ca/students/requirements). Plan to fulfill the Writing Component in your first year by taking one of Coordinated Arts, Arts One, ENGL 100 or Arts Studies (ASTU) 150. You only need to complete the LPI requirement if you plan to take ENGL 100 or other 100-level English courses.
WRITING 098
If you score less than five on the essay section of the LPI exam, you may not be able to register in a full course load until your English skills improve. The UBC Writing Centre offers Writing 098 (WRIT 098), a non-credit composition and grammar course designed to prepare students for universitylevel writing and to help them improve their score on the LPI. If you complete this course, you will receive an extended LPI deadline and priority on waitlists for first-year English courses. The Writing Centre also provides a free tutoring service for UBC students from September to April as well as non-credit courses in grammar, style, scientific writing, and writing for graduate students. Visit www.writingcentre.ubc.ca or call 604.822.9564 for more information. Exchange students who take Writing 098 (or any other Writing Centre course) will be required to pay the tuition fee because it is not covered by the exchange agreement.
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e-Learning provides an online environment for class material, media, quizzes, discussion forums, and other tools. To find out more, visit www.elearning.ubc.ca.
For full details of what the LPI test involves, sample questions, how to register, fees, exam schedules, identification requirements tutorial materials, private tests and more, visit the LPI website: www.lpitest.ca
ACADEMIC LIFE
The UBC IT Service Centre Help Desk provides support for CWL, WebCT (student support), ResNet, anti-virus installation, Virtual Private Networking (VPN), and UBC wireless. Drop-in during their office hours from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday at the UBC Bookstore. For more information, visit www.it.ubc.ca/helpdesk or call 604.822.2008.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE CLASSES AT INTERNATIONAL HOUSE
Each term, you and your family can improve your English by taking one of several I. House language classes. Classes are run by UBC student volunteer instructors and have topics ranging from Canadian culture to intermediate conversation. Each course will focus on building vocabulary, improving speaking & listening skills, and gaining confidence in expressing your ideas. In each class, you will make new friends, share your own experiences and have fun. To register, visit I. House at the beginning of each term. These sessions fill up quickly, so register early. There is a nominal fee for each course in order to cover the cost of the program. Check out our English language programs at www.students.ubc.ca/international.
INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAMS
The English Language Institute (ELI), part of UBC Continuing Studies, offers 16 week and 8 week Intensive English programs with start dates throughout the year. The ELI also offers three- or four-week English for the Global Citizen programs in the winter, spring and summer, and English for Business Communications in June/July. The ELI has a conditional admission program for UBC graduate and undergraduate programs (for academically outstanding applicants who do not yet meet UBC’s English proficiency standard). Full-time tuition fees range from $1,195 to $6,025. For more information, visit www.eli.ubc.ca, call 604.822.1555, or email eli@cstudies.ubc.ca.
Academic support
Whether you’re seeking advice on how to find resources in the library, looking for a tutor, or wanting to improve your study skills, UBC’s wide range of programs and services can help you meet your academic goals.
LEARNING COMMONS
The UBC Learning Commons is a collaborative and dynamic learning environment that helps students get better at school and encourages interdisciplinary conversation. It offers many services to guide and assist you through an exciting process of learning and discovery. It can connect you with relevant resources such as learning skills workshops, peer academic coaching, AMS tutoring and multimedia workstations. For more information, visit them in person or online at www.learningcommons.ubc.ca
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ADVISORS IN YOUR FACULTY
Most faculties and departments have academic advisors, graduate program advisors, and/or an international student coordinator, all of whom offer free, discreet advice to students. If you have questions about planning your program or about courses in another faculty, an advisor will be able to help you or refer you to other departments and student services.
To contact an advising office, consult the Contacts section on the inside front cover of this handbook. You may have to book an appointment, so contact the advising office in advance. You are ultimately responsible for ☞ your academic success. An advisor will help
you identify study options and possible solutions to academic problems, but in the end you must decide what to do. If you have a personal problem or illness that starts to affect your academic life, contact your academic advisor right away. Don’t wait until exams!
AMS TUTORING SERVICES
If you’re struggling with a first year course in math, chemistry, economics or physics, AMS Tutoring is here to help! See them for: • Free
drop-in tutoring and online tutoring in 100level math, chemistry, economics, and physics
• I ndividual or small group tutoring by appointment ($30/hour) • An online tutor registry For more information on these services, visit tutoring.ams.ubc.ca, call 604.822.9084, or email tutoring@ams.ubc.ca.
MATH LEARNING CENTRE – DROP-IN TUTORING
www.math.ubc.ca/Ugrad/ugradTutorials.shtml The Department of Mathematics runs drop-in tutoring for 100-, 200- and some 300-level Math courses, staffed mainly by teaching assistants. The tutoring sessions are held in Room 100 in the Leonard S. Klinck (LSK) building, which is located across the street from the Mathematics Annex. Check at the tutoring location, in the Math Office, or online for the schedule of tutoring times. There is no charge for this service. Visit www.math.ubc.ca/Ugrad/ ugradTutorials.shtml.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
LIBRARY TUTORIALS & HELP
• UBC
Library: www.library.ubc.ca
• Student
guide: www.library.ubc.ca/pubs/ student-guide.pdf
• Research
guide: guides.library.ubc.ca
• Subject
librarians: directory.library.ubc.ca/ subjectlibrarians
• Library
hours: hours.library.ubc.ca
about your library account: services.library.ubc.ca/borrowing/ library-account
SERVICES FOR TEACHING ASSISTANTS
Graduate students who plan to be teaching assistants (TAs) can take advantage of the programs for graduate students offered by the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology (CTLT). The programs for graduate students include three-day instructional skills workshops, two-day presentation skills workshops, and the Graduate Certificate Program in Teaching in Higher Education. All seminars and workshops are free, though some require a $60 deposit that is returned upon completion of the workshop. Visit www.ctlt.ubc.ca, email ctlt.forgrads@ubc.ca, or call 604.822.9696 for more information.
UBC’s academic culture
UBC’s academic culture may be different from the culture at universities in your country. Also, the academic challenges that students face in undergraduate or graduate programs are normally more demanding than those in their previous schooling. For these reasons, it is common for students to experience a drop in academic performance in their first year at UBC. If this happens to you, don’t worry. It takes most students one or two semesters to adjust to a new academic environment. You can make your transition into academic life at UBC smoother in the following ways: • Be
aware that a dip in grades might occur, and don’t panic if this happens, but do find help so you can improve your situation.
• Sign
up for workshops and other academic support services on campus through The Learning Commons (p. 18).
• Visit
your instructor during office hours to ask for advice on how to improve your grades.
COURSE FORMATS
Lectures Most courses are offered as lectures. Lectures usually range from 50 to 80 minutes in length and may involve 30 to 200 students.
Lectures, along with other classroom settings, are fairly informal. Although professors have different standards, it is generally acceptable to, for example, have a beverage on the desk; in larger lectures, you can also usually enter and leave the classroom for washroom breaks without asking for permission. If you are late to arrive, take a seat as quietly and quickly as possible without disrupting the professor’s teaching. If you have to leave early, tell the professor before class begins. When in doubt of the accepted classroom etiquette, you can always ask your professor during office hours.
Tutorials Lecture courses also commonly have tutorials. These provide an opportunity for discussion in smaller groups. You will usually be expected to participate in these group discussions, and, in some cases, grades are given for attendance and active participation. Labs Many science, math, and engineering courses at UBC have laboratory (lab) work, which includes practical activities in addition to lectures or tutorials. Labs require small group work under the direction of a teaching assistant (TA). In some courses, you must pass the lab to pass the course. Labs and tutorials are usually mandatory and, in some cases, grades are given for attendance. Seminars Many graduate (and some upper-level undergraduate) courses follow a seminar format. These smaller classes encourage discussion and sometimes include presentations. Students are often given grades for their presentations and for verbal participation in class. Problem-based learning (PBL) classes In a PBL class, rather than listening to a lecture, you will solve problems that occur in real-life situations. Most of the time, you will work in small groups under the general guidance of your professor.
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• Information
If you experience any difficulties adjusting to UBC’s academic culture, speak with your faculty advisors or graduate program advisors, the Go Global advisors, or an international student advisor. If you are in Jump Start, stay connected to your learning communities and follow through on your learning goals.
ACADEMIC LIFE
UBC Library offers instruction sessions and tutorials, online real-time help, and a range of quick reference publications to help you find the resources you need. To find out more about these services, visit the following websites:
EVALUATION
The three main methods of evaluation at UBC are class participation, assignments, and exams. On the first day of class, your instructor will hand out a course outline (or syllabus), which provides very important details on class readings, exams, and assignments that might not be mentioned anywhere else. In Canada, university students are expected to take charge of their own learning and success, so be sure to see your professor for the syllabus if you missed the first lecture. You are responsible for following all instructions in the syllabus. The professor is also not responsible for any lecture material you may miss during the term. That is why it’s always good to make at least one aquaintance in each class.
Class participation In many classes, you will be expected to actively participate by discussing opinions, ideas, and perspectives related to coursework, readings, and assignments. In some cases, you may be graded based on your participation in class. You can raise your hand if you want to say something, but if no one else in the class raises their hands, you can stop doing so. The common emphasis on classroom discussion underlies a broader academic focus on critical thinking, connecting and creating ideas, and defending specific perspectives or arguments. Therefore, memorizing lecture notes and course materials is important but often not sufficient for the best results.
Assignments The essay is a very common way of assessing learning at Canadian universities. Instructors may assign term papers, which are typically 10 to 30 page essays. A term paper is a major undertaking, so make sure you begin working on yours several weeks before it is due. Other kinds of assignments include group projects, oral presentations and labs.
Exams When you prepare for exams, keep the following helpful hints in mind: • Take a workshop on preparing for exams. • Get
your readings done well in advance.
At UBC, courses usually have two major exams: mid-term exams and final exams. Your courses may have either one mid-term exam halfway through the term or several exams throughout the term. Finals occur during the exam periods in December and April. For more information on exam dates and times, visit www.students.ubc.
ca/current/exams.cfm. You may also check your personal exam schedule online at the Student Service Centre (www.students.ubc.ca/ssc). Note that some final exams are scheduled in the evenings and on Saturdays. Exams will test your knowledge using varying formats, such as short/long answers, essay questions, true or false, and multiple choice. Make sure you familiarize yourself with common key terms used in essay questions, such as analyze, interpret, prove and explain. Students are expected to be available ☞ for exams during the entire exam period. Exam schedules are posted in mid-October (Term 1) and mid-February (Term 2), and they are subject to change. Don’t make arrangements for end-of-term travel until you see the exam schedule.
Exam clashes and hardships When the exam schedule comes out, check to make sure you don’t have two exams occurring on the same day at the same time. If you have a clash, contact your professor to determine whether an alternative time is available. If no other writing time is available, you should complete the Exam Clash form available at Student Information Services in Brock Hall. Forms will be accepted up to one month prior to the exam date. If you have three or more exams within 24 hours, you have the right to change the date of your second exam. “Within 24 hours” is interpreted literally. For example, if you have one exam starting at 8:30 am, a second at 3:30 pm, and a third at 7:00 pm, you have an “exam hardship,” and the instructor of the middle exam must work with you to set an alternative time. However, if you have one exam starting at 8:30 am, a second at 7:00 pm, and a third the next day at 8:30 am, you have a tight schedule, but you cannot change any of your exams. Missing an exam There are a few legitimate reasons for missing a final exam. This does not include events such as a wedding, an annual medical checkup, missing a bus, or taking a vacation. The following are legitimate reasons: • A
sudden illness or injury that prevents you from getting to campus or writing. You’ll need a statement of illness from your physician.
• An
appointment for surgery that cannot be scheduled for another time. You’ll need documentation from your surgeon.
20 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
• The death, sudden onset of a life-threatening
disease, or serious injury of your spouse/ partner, parent, sibling, child, or grandparent. Please contact your faculty advisor as soon as possible. birth of your own child.
• A car accident on the way to your exam. You’ll need
an accident report from the police or the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC).
• Religious
restrictions concerning observance of designated holidays. The request must be submitted to your dean’s office at least two weeks before the final exam.
Exam results Beginning partway through the exam period, final grades are posted on the Student Service Centre at www.students.ubc.ca/ssc. To see the result of a specific exam or final project, speak to your instructor.
INSTRUCTORS
If you’re an undergraduate student, you may find that teaching assistants (TAs), in addition to professors, lead parts of your classes. The role of the TA varies in each class. Your TA may lead discussions, conduct labs, assist with lectures, grade assignments, hold office hours, or grade exams. TAs are usually graduate students at UBC. Be sure to speak to your instructor (professor or TA) if you: • can’t submit your assignment on time • don’t
class
understand a concept that was covered in
• are
feeling challenged by your course load due to circumstances outside of the course (such as difficulties with English)
• need
more information about an essay, project, or other assignment
Most instructors hold office hours (regular times they will be in their offices, during which you can drop by). Office hours give you a chance to meet with your instructor to discuss course materials, assignments, your questions, and any concerns. If you can’t drop by during office hours, schedule an appointment with your instructor for another time.
If you don’t understand or can’t hear what your instructor is saying, you can tell them to repeat their sentence, speak louder, or speak more slowly. Some instructors will even allow you to use an audio recorder during the lecture. A person’s accent is not related to their intelligence or their ability to guide your learning. Remember, professors want you to succeed, and you may be surprised how supportive and helpful many of them are.
INFORMAL LEARNING SPACES Informal learning spaces are everywhere and include any space on campus outside of classrooms and labs where students learn. The University has worked extensively, and in partnership with faculties and service units, to provide spaces designed for student learning all over campus, whether searching for a place to engage in quiet independent study or a place to work in a group. The University recognizes that the learning that happens in these spaces is an essential part of your educational experience. For information on great informal learning spaces on campus, visit www.students.ubc. ca/classroomservices/informal-learningspaces/informal-learning-spaces-map
In Canada, student-faculty relationships tend to be informal and students call some instructors
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Contact both your dean’s office and your instructor before the exam, or as soon after the exam as possible. If you have a legitimate reason, you will need to show proof. For more information on UBC’s exam policies, visit www.students.ubc.ca/coursesreg/exams/ exam-policies-accommodations.
Canadian students often challenge and question their instructors. This behaviour can seem rude to students from other countries, but in Canada, it is quite acceptable – and even desirable at times – to respectfully disagree with your professor’s opinions. Constructive and educational dialogue with your professors is encouraged, especially during their office hours. You may find your learning here a lot more rewarding if you get to know some of your professors; they are sometimes very keen to share and talk about their research!
ACADEMIC LIFE
• The
by their first names. Professors are not required to dress formally to teach. Regardless of their attire or mannerisms, professors always expect students to be respectful. However, professors don’t generally socialize with students, and it is not appropriate for instructors to date students. Instructors also don’t expect gifts from students and they may feel uncomfortable if presented with one.
Academic integrity & plagiarism
It is your responsibility to be aware of University regulations. A complete listing of academic regulations that apply to every student at UBC can be found in the “Policies and Regulations” chapter of the calendar (www.students.ubc.ca/calendar). At UBC, penalties for plagiarism and other academic misconduct range from a failing grade in the course to suspension from the University.
One of the most serious academic offences is plagiarism (submitting the work of another person as your own). Some international students have noticed striking differences between the concept of intellectual property in their cultures and in Canada. Intellectual property includes ideas, arguments, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, or results of research (including material found on the web). In Canada, using someone else’s work without acknowledgment is not considered a way of honouring that person, even if the work is commonly known. When you use excerpts from someone else’s work in your essay, paper, or presentation, you must acknowledge the original author in a footnote or another accepted manner. You may not copy all or any part of another person’s work, and you may not purchase a paper from anyone (or from websites) and present it as your own. Also, you may not re-submit your work from one course to fulfill a requirement in another course. For more information, visit www.library.ubc.ca/ clc/airc.html. The Faculty of Arts also publishes a guide to academic integrity at www.arts.ubc.ca/faculty-amp-staff/resources/ academic-integrity.html
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Housing
HOUSING
For some students, living in residence is a great opportunity to connect with new friends and meet people from many backgrounds and cultures. Other students prefer to live elsewhere in Vancouver. Whether you choose to live on campus or off, this section will give you helpful information to consider as you get settled in.
CONTENTS
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
The basics of moving into residence – bed linen sizes, telephone lines and internet access
s
How and where to search for off-campus housing
s
What to look for when renting a place, and your rights as a tenant
23
UBC residence
No matter where you live on campus, you’re usually within walking distance of everything you need. UBC is a little city unto itself, complete with theatres, shops, art galleries, museums, concert halls, ice rinks, grocery stores, restaurants, a hospital, and a sports stadium. UBC Student Housing and Hospitality Services offers both single-student and student-family housing. Demand for on-campus housing is high, and you should have applied for a place in residence (also called rez) when you applied for admission. If you’re interested in student-family housing and you have not yet applied, you may still do so. The waiting period for student-family housing is typically one year from the date of application. If you haven’t applied for single-student housing, you can submit an application for 2013/2014 (Winter and Summer Sessions) in December 2012. When you are offered a place in residence, you’ll receive an assignment notice and a link to your online residence guide and residence contract. These materials will answer most of your questions about living in residence.
International undergraduates who meet ☞ certain admissions guidelines are guaranteed on-campus housing for their first year of UBC ONLY.
If you are an undergraduate student, and you are interested in living in residence after first year, please note that there is NO oncampus housing guarantee for international students after first year. Spots in residence after first year are assigned by lottery. Waiting lists for oncampus housing are long! Academic year-only housing (September to April)—is very limited in residence after first year. Your best chance to secure on-campus housing after first year is to apply for year-round residence, such as Thunderbird, Fraser Hall or Marine Drive.
TELEPHONES
MOVING INTO RESIDENCE
If you require consistently reliable phone communication in residence, consider getting a landline. You can purchase telephone service from Telus if you live in Totem Park, Place Vanier, Walter Gage, Fairview Crescent, Marine Drive, or Acadia Park. If you live in Thunderbird, Ritsumeikan, Fraser Hall, St. John’s College or Vancouver School of Theology, you can purchase telephone service from Shaw. For information on applying for phone service, visit www.housing.ubc.ca/ services-amenities/telephone.
For more information, visit the office of UBC Student Housing and Hospitality Services at 2205 Lower Mall – Marine Drive Building 6 or refer to www.housing.ubc.ca. For single-student inquiries, contact 604.822.2811 or information@housing.ubc. ca. For student-family housing inquiries, contact 604.822.4411 or family@housing.ubc.ca.
When you live in residence, you access the internet using ResNet. With ResNet, you don’t need a modem and you’ll never have to dial in. You’re automatically connected to the internet whenever your computer is on. For more details, including availability, visit www.it.ubc.ca/ resnet. Also, note that you will be responsible for supplying your own ethernet cable.
For more information on UBC residence, visit www.housing.ubc.ca. You are welcome to check in to your residence room after 9:00 am on the date specified on your Residence Acceptance Confirmation. To check in, go to the front desk, located at the commonsblock of your residence. (Each residence has a central area, known as a commonsblock, where you will find the front desk and other shared amenities.)
BED LINENS
Each residence room comes equipped with a mattress pad. You may bring your own bed linens or pre-order linens and have them shipped to your residence before you arrive. If you want to supply your own linens, you’ll need extra-long twin sheets. These sheets are 39” x 80” (fitted) and 66” x 96” (flat). For more information on bed linens, visit www.housing.ubc.ca/before-moving-in/ before-leaving-home/128
INTERNET ACCESS
Unfortunately, ResNet is not available in studentfamily housing (e.g., Acadia Park residence). Student-family housing residents can get internet access via Telus. For more information, visit www.housing.ubc.ca/rez_guide/internet.htm.
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR RESIDENCE EXPERIENCE
It’s normal to feel homesick or lonely when you move in to a new place. The following suggestions may help you get over the loneliness, so that you
24 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
• Sit in the lounge rather than in your room.
Watch TV with your housemates and take the opportunity to enjoy the show and meet others.
• Invite others to eat with you. Many new students
OTHER RESIDENCES ON CAMPUS
Other student housing is available on or close to campus in residences that offer both temporary and permanent accommodation for certain student groups. These spaces are in high demand, so apply early. These residences include Green College, St. John’s College, Vancouver School of Theology, and St. Andrew’s Hall. Visit www.housing.ubc.ca/vancouver.htm and follow the link to “Other Housing” for more information.
Off-campus housing
Apartment hunting can be a daunting task, but the good news is that over one-third of British Columbians rent their home. If they can find a place to live, so can you! Vancouver has many neighbourhoods that offer different advantages to students. Refer to the information below and consult www.vancouver.ca before deciding which neighbourhood to live in.
Studying late at the library or have an early exam the next day? Just wish you could stay on campus? Now, you can. Walter Gage residence offers commuter students: • a private room with a twin bed, desk, and chair • i nternet connection (bring your own ethernet cable) • bed and bath linens and basic toiletries • s hared lounge, equipped kitchenette, and two bathrooms • s ame-day bookings before 5:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday •o nline reservation via CWL (credit card payment required) For details, visit www.housing.ubc.ca/ student-residences-van/commuter-hostel. neighbourhoods are: Town – There are private townhouses and apartments on the UBC campus.
•U niversity •K itsilano
– “Kits” offers many apartments, is very close to the beach, and is considered a fashionable neighbourhood to live in.
•W est
Point Grey and Dunbar/Southlands – Both of these residential areas offer many basement suites.
•A rbutus
Ridge and Kerrisdale – These areas offer mainly single-family homes and apartment buildings.
West End Some students choose to live in this lively area of downtown (35 minutes by bus). It’s close to beaches and Stanley Park.
When choosing a place to live, you should consider the transit routes. If you don’t have a car, the farther away you are living from campus, the more important it is that you live near a direct bus route to UBC. Direct buses travel along 4th, Broadway (9th), 10th, 25th, 41st, and 49th Avenues. See the Transportation chapter on p. 29 for more information.
VANCOUVER NEIGHBOURHOODS
West Side Vancouver’s West Side is convenient for UBC students because it’s close to campus (15 to 20 minutes by bus). The main West Side
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worry that they’ll eat alone. If you live in Totem or Vanier, your floor/house has tables in the dining room where residents regularly sit. If you live in Thunderbird, Fairview, Gage, Ritsumeikan, Fraser Hall or Marine Drive, invite other residents to cook dinner with you. (Don’t forget to get a Function Responsibility form from your rez advisor if you plan to host a social gathering.)
COMMUTER STUDENT HOSTEL
HOUSING
can make the most of your time in rez. You may feel uncomfortable at first, but following these suggestions is worth the effort. • Ask your residence advisors what activities and programs they’re planning, and tell them what kinds of things you’d enjoy. It’s amazing how many people you meet when you participate in an activity or join a rez intramural team.
East Side The East Side of Vancouver is farther away from campus (35 to 45 minutes by bus) but is also less expensive. Commercial Drive and Mount Pleasant are trendy east side neighbourhoods popular for their diverse cultures and lifestyles. Downtown East Side Some people feel less safe in this area near downtown. Suburbs Vancouver suburbs are also within commuting distance if you have a car or live near transit. Commuting time can be up to 2 hours each way, but rent is much cheaper. The main suburbs are Burnaby, New Westminster, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Richmond, Delta, and Surrey. Finding a Cross Street To find a location on a north/south street in Vancouver, subtract 1500 from the house number and divide by 100. This will indicate the cross street. For example, 8600 Granville Street is at 71st and Granville.
HOW AND WHERE TO SEARCH
AMS Rentsline This automated touchtone telephone and online service can help you find off-campus housing. Call 604.714.4848 or visit www.amsrentsline.com. Newspapers Check the classified ads in the Province and the Vancouver Sun. Listings for both papers are also available online at www.canada.oodle.com/ regions/vancouver. There are also some rental listings in the Georgia Straight and the Vancouver Courier. Websites Check www.housing.ubc.ca/off-campus-housing for off-campus accommodation options and links to rental websites. A popular website for housing and other deals is Craigslist, at www.vancouver. en.craigslist.ca. Word of mouth Ask other students if they know of any vacancies. There are often many suites in a building, and someone living there might know of upcoming vacancies. Rental services There are services that will provide you with a list of vacancies that meet your criteria. These services are often advertised in the rental listings sections of newspapers. They can be helpful and may save you time, but you will have to pay a fee.
RENTING TIPS
Inspecting an apartment When you view rental accommodations, check these important features: • Are there locks on all doors? •D o the appliances work? Check the fridge and try turning on the stove. •D o the shower and taps work? Try turning them on. •D o the walls require new paint? If so, ask the landlord whether they will paint before you move in. • I s the carpet clean? Ask the landlord whether the carpet will be cleaned or changed before you move in. •H ow loud is traffic noise when the windows are open? •W hat does the rent include? For example, will you have to pay extra for any of the following: heat, electricity, cable, laundry facilities, storage, or parking? You should also ask about the following before renting: • Is smoking allowed? • Is
the place pet-friendly?
• Can
you paint the walls?
• Are
you allowed to hang things on the walls?
Water damage (yellow stains on the walls and ceiling), mouse droppings, and cockroaches are very bad signs. Avoid renting suites that have these problems. Be sure to alert your landlord to these issues if they come up after you’ve moved in.
Protect yourself Make sure you sign a formal rental agreement. Make sure you get all the details of your rental agreement in writing. If the landlord says they will repair or clean something before you move in, write this down and include it in the written agreement. Make sure both you and your landlord have copies of all the agreements you have signed. If you make changes to the documents, both you and your landlord should put your initials next to each change. Always prove that you paid: pay by cheque or money order, or get a receipt if paying in cash. Take photos to document any damage or repairs needed.
TENANTS’ RIGHTS
For information on signing a lease and tenants’ rights, check the very helpful “Tenant Survival Guide and Factsheets” (www.tenants.bc.ca/ main/?publications). You may also wish to contact the Residential Tenancy branch at 604.660.1020, or visit www.rto.gov.bc.ca.
26 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
If you’re having a problem with your landlord and are unsure what to do, please see an international student advisor at I. House.
COSTS OF RENTING
Type of accommodation
Minimum cost
Shared accommodation, excluding food
$600/month
One-room bachelor or studio suite (a single room with a kitchen and bathroom)
$800/month
One-bedroom apartment (suitable for singles or couples)
$1,000/month
Two-bedroom apartment
$1,100–$1,500/ month
Four-bedroom house
$1,700/month or more, plus utilities
Some costs of renting occur once only (at the start of your tenancy), while others happen on a more regular basis. One-time costs include your security deposit (usually equal to half a month’s rent), telephone connection fee, and furnishings. The deposit will be returned to you when you are moving out if the apartment is left clean and in good condition. Recurring monthly costs beyond rent may include utilities, cable television, phone, internet service, household purchases, laundry, parking, renters’ insurance (optional), and food.
FURNISHING YOUR HOME
Furnished suites are available, but they are generally more expensive. Most suites and apartments are unfurnished, so you may need to buy some basic furniture, such as a bed, desk, kitchen table, and chairs. A refrigerator and stove are always included in rental suites, so you won’t need to purchase these items. It is generally less expensive to buy used furniture than to buy new furnishings. For good deals on furniture, see: • Salvation • Classified
Army Thrift Stores or Value Village
ads in the Province, the Vancouver Sun, the Vancouver Courier, and at www.vancouver.en.craigslist.ca
• Flyers
posted in the SUB
TELEPHONE SERVICE & UTILITIES When you move in to your new place, you may need to arrange for the following household utilities:
Electricity Contact BC Hydro at 604.224.9376 or www. bchydro.com. On the website, click “Moving?” in the left navigation, then click “New Account.” Follow the prompts to complete the Residential Account Application. Television, internet and home phone In order to watch even the most basic television channels, you must purchase a subscription. Shaw and Telus are the main providers of Cable/ Satellite TV, as well as internet and home phone lines. Before you sign up for any contract, be sure to talk to different companies to see which one can give you the best rate. As a university student, there are sometimes special student prices available to you. When you purchase a service (TV/internet/home phone) from a certain company, they will often give you better deals on the other services. For example, if you have Shaw internet, adding on Shaw TV will be much cheaper than if you were to just buy Shaw TV alone. This is known as ‘bundling’. It is therefore common (although not necessary) in Vancouver to purchase all of these services from the same company. Visit www.shaw.ca or www.telus.com to explore your options.
Mobile Telephones Mobile (or cellular) telephones are extremely popular and many students choose to only use a mobile phone for convenience and to save money. If you are bringing a mobile phone from your home country, it may or may not work with the cellular networks in Vancouver. The most popular cellular networks in British Columbia are Telus, Bell, Rogers, Fido, Koodo, Virgin Mobile, Wind, and Mobilicity. In Canada, mobile phones and cellular phone plans are usually purchased from the same cellular phone plan provider. In fact, your mobile phone and cellular network provider are ‘linked’. For example, if you buy your phone and calling plan from Rogers, your phone will only work with Rogers SIM cards. Additionally, some mobile phone models may be exclusively available from a particular cellular provider. There are different types of phone plans, including monthly plans (that may or may not be under a
27
CONTENTS
The cost of renting in Vancouver can vary greatly depending on the rental suite’s location and condition.
and yard sales: look for classified ads or flyers in the neighbourhood
HOUSING
Many UBC students choose to live in basement suites (also called “ground floor suites” or “garden suites”). Basement suites tend to be $50 to $100 per month cheaper than apartments, but you should check that the windows and doors open and lock properly and that the suite is not too damp or dark.
• Garage
contract) and pay-as-you-go plans. Be sure to speak with your customer service representative about all the different options and choose the right one for your needs. If you buy a phone plan on a 2- or 3-year contract, you can often get certain mobile phones for free or at a discounted price. There may be hidden costs in contracts so make sure you are aware of what you’re signing.
ISABEL LEE Class of 2013 Home country: Nicaragua Degree: Bachelor of Arts Specialization: Psychology
Depending on your calling habits, there are different additions that you can purchase in addition to your basic plan, such as Caller ID or voicemail. Phone calls on your cell-phone are charged per minute of ‘air time’. This means that you pay whether you place or receive a call and even if you dial a toll-free number. Text messages are charged per message sent, but some providers also charge for the messages received. Some plans offer free minutes during evenings and weekends as well as unlimited texting; be sure to ask about these options when you purchase your phone plan. If you use a smartphone, you can also purchase a data plan to access the internet anywhere you have cellular reception. The data plan is separate to your voice plan. You can also purchase long-distance phone cards from convenience stores, and these cards may give you better long-distance rates. Shop around and ask others from your country about them, because the rates vary greatly.
LAUNDRY FACILITIES
Rental suites often do not include laundry facilities. If this is the case for you, ask your landlord or a fellow tenant for the location of the nearest laundromat. Although you can buy detergent at some laundromats, you’ll find it cheaper to bring your own. Most laundry machines take only quarters and one-dollar coins (called loonies).
INSURANCE
Some students insure their accommodation and belongings against theft, fire, and other damage by purchasing renters’ insurance. Check online or visit the insurance companies located in University Village or on West 10th Avenue. Rates vary, so contact several insurance companies to find the best deal.
What I like about UBC is its liveliness and its people, its resources and its education – I like UBC for its well-roundedness that has given me a chance to discover a bit more about myself. The critical thinking learning environment in classes has made me wonder about the everyday choices that I make, the multiple cultures that I can experience with friends from around the world as I hear their stories; these are the opportunities that UBC has provided me, a unique combination of friends and education at the right situation and right time to help me slowly discover my potential as a person. Recent achievements: Participated and worked with Jump Start during the past two years, helping to develop and plan the program.
28 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Transportation
TRANSPORTATION
UBC is the second-largest commuter destination in Vancouver. On an average weekday while school is in session, students, staff, faculty, and visitors make over 100,000 trips to UBC.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
How to get around on public transit
s
Getting your U-Pass, which gives you unlimited access to most transit services
s
Where you can borrow and fix bikes
s
How to get a driver’s licence or ID
29
Public transit
call HandyDART at 604.575.6600, but remember to sign up at www.translink.ca/en/Rider-Info/ Accessible-Transit/HandyDART.aspx first. About 60% of Vancouver’s curbed streets and lane corners have curb ramps, which make it easier for people who use wheelchairs to cross the street. Certified service dogs (seeing-eye, physical assistance, hearing) have complete access to public places, including public transit, in British Columbia. A person accompanied by a service dog has the same rights, privileges, and obligations as a person without one.
U-Pass
TransLink is Vancouver’s transit authority. It operates buses, SkyTrains (elevated trains), Seabuses (ferries that run between downtown Vancouver and the North Shore), and the West Coast Express (a commuter train that runs between downtown Vancouver and Mission in the Fraser Valley). Vancouver is divided into three transit zones. UBC is in Zone 1. If you have not obtained your U-Pass BC (see below), your fare ($2.50 to $5.00) will depend on when you travel and the number of zones you travel through. You need exact coin fare or prepaid bus tickets when you ride the bus. Prepaid bus tickets are a better value; they come in books of 10 tickets and are available in the SUB, Safeway (grocery store), convenience stores, and major drugstores. When you board the bus, show your U-Pass BC and be prepared to show your student ID or put your coins or fare ticket in the electronic fare box and wait for the box to produce a transfer ticket. Transfers allow you to change buses/trains for up to 90 minutes without paying another fare. Let the bus driver know if you need a transfer for more than one zone. All buses that come to UBC stop at the bus loops (bus depots near the entrance to the campus). To get more information on schedules or to plan a trip using public transit, visit www.translink.bc.ca, call 604.953.3333, or pick up a bus schedule and route map from the UBC Bookstore, the SUB, or any public library.
The U-Pass BC Program is a mandatory program that provides all eligible students with unlimited access to conventional transit services and discounted fares on the West Coast Express. The U-Pass BC program saves students hundreds of dollars per term in transportation costs and helps promote sustainable transportation at UBC. Each month you will be required to pick up a new U-Pass BC card from the UBC Bookstore. The U-Pass fee for 2012/13 is $30 per month; this is automatically added to your student fees when you register for classes. Passes will be issued each month at the Carding Office in the UBC Bookstore. Avoid long line-ups by remembering to pick up your new pass before the end of each month. For information on the program, and to see when passes are available, visit www.upass.ubc.ca.
Cycling
The City of Vancouver has developed an extensive system of bikeways for cyclists. To obtain a map of Vancouver’s bike routes, use the online bicycle trip planning tool www.cyclevancouver.ubc.ca. You can also visit the Bike Kitchen in the SUB, a Vancouver Public Library branch, a community centre, or a bicycle store. Make sure your bike has front and rear lights, a rear reflector, and a bell. Even if you don’t cycle at night, you will find these
PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
TransLink’s HandyDART service operates speciallyequipped vehicles designed to carry passengers with physical or cognitive disabilities. HandyDART buses pick up people at their homes and take them where they want to go. To make a reservation,
30 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
make it much easier for drivers to see you. And remember to buy a helmet – it’s the law to wear one in British Columbia (unless you wear a turban).
The Bike Kitchen (www.thebikekitchen.com), a fully equipped bike repair and retail shop, is part of the Bike Co-op. It offers complete repair and tune-up service as well as shop time for you to work on your bike. For more information, call 604.827.7333, email bikekitchen@gmail.com, or visit them on the north side of the SUB.
Driving GETTING YOUR LICENCE
If you have a valid driver’s licence from another country or Canadian province, and you’re registered as a full-time UBC student, your licence allows you to drive in BC for as long as you’re a full-time student. If your driver’s licence is in a language other than English or French, you must also carry a certified translation of it. If the above doesn’t apply to you, you have 90 days after you move to British Columbia to get a BC driver’s licence. The process to apply for a BC driver’s licence, including the tests you’ll need to take, depends on the type of licence you currently have. You can apply for a BC driver’s licence at all Driver Licensing Centres. For more information on licences, requirements, and locations of Driver Licensing Centres, visit www.icbc.com. When applying for a BC driver’s licence, remember to bring one piece of “primary ID” and one piece of “secondary ID.” If you don’t have proper proof of identity and driver licensing history (if applicable), your licence application won’t be processed. Visit www.icbc.com for a list of acceptable identification documents.
REGISTERING AND INSURING YOUR VEHICLE
Your vehicle must be insured before you take it on the road. You must register, license, and insure any vehicle you bring to BC within 30 days of its
PARKING ON CAMPUS
UBC has many parking options for commuting students. If you drive to campus, you can park at any one of several meters, parkades, or outdoor pay lots. Meter rates are $3.75 per hour for up to four hours. Parkades charge $1.75 per half hour up to a maximum rate of $14 for the day. For entry after 5:00 pm and on weekends, a flat rate of $6 applies. The FlexPass is an economical and flexible parking option available to all students. It is the most convenient method of parking. The FlexPass allows you to manage your parking account online. To purchase a FlexPass or to get more information related to parking or commuting to campus, visit www.parking.ubc.ca or call the Parking Office at 604.822.6786. If you own a car and live in one of the on-campus residences managed by UBC Student Housing and Hospitality Services, you must apply for parking. Parking spaces are assigned on a first-come, firstserved basis. To apply for a parking permit, visit secure.housing.ubc.ca, log in, and select “Apply for parking” under “Residents.”
TIPS FOR DRIVING IN VANCOUVER
Speed limits The speed limit on all Vancouver roads is 50 kilometres per hour (km/h), unless you see a sign for a different speed. The speed limit on lanes behind houses and buildings is 20 km/h. Park and school areas usually have a speed limit of 30 km/h. Vancouver police give out tickets with heavy fines to drivers who exceed the speed limits within the city. Street parking Never block a fire hydrant, bus stop, sidewalk, crosswalk, road, alley, or driveway when you park. Most parking meters are in effect from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, seven days a week. Depending on the area, rates are from $1 to $6 per hour. Always check the meter for parking restrictions to avoid getting a ticket. Don’t park where you see a “Resident Parking Only” sign; street parking here is reserved for people who live on that block or in that area. Pedestrians People who are walking have the right of way on campus roads and city streets, and you need to watch out for them at all times. Most pedestrians cross the street at intersections or marked crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
31
TRANSPORTATION
The AMS Bike Co-op is a student-run organization that works to promote cycling and related resources at UBC and also around Vancouver. On a weekly basis, volunteers gather to work on a community fleet of bikes that are free for students to use on campus. The Bike Co-op also runs educational workshops, plans fun rides and maintains a fleet of heavy-duty cargo bikes for use by student organizations. Check out the website at www.bikecoop.ca for upcoming events. Call 604.822.2453 (BIKE) or email ubc.bikecoop@ gmail.com for more information.
arrival. In BC, you can register, license, and insure a vehicle at any Autoplan broker in the province. For a list of Autoplan brokers, visit www.icbc.com.
Emergency vehicles When a police car, fire truck, or ambulance has its lights or siren on, you must get out of the way as quickly and safely as you can. Move your car into the right-hand lane or to the roadside and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed you.
DAVID KOHLER Class of 2012 Home country: Switzerland Degree: Doctor of Philosophy Specialization: Mathematics
My ideal day in Vancouver: Start off with an espresso macchiato and eggs Benedict on Main Street. Once well fed, jump on a bike and head along False Creek to Granville Island and make discoveries in little shops, exploring the public market. Now hop on the water taxi for Bowen Island and have lunch on this remote beauty, just off the bay. On the way back, stop in Kitsilano to enjoy the beach for the rest of the afternoon. Start the evening in one of the many restaurants in Gastown and finally catch a live music show. Recent achievements: Teaching; contributing to the ongoing conversation on improving mathematics education.
32
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Immigration IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
What you need to visit the USA
s
What to do if you want to take a break from your studies
s
How to apply for a Spouse/ Partner Work Permit
IMMIGRATION
s
How to extend your Study Permit and get a new Temporary Resident Visa
☞
If you need help, contact an international student advisor by calling 604.822.5021, emailing isa@students.ubc.ca, or visiting I. House. You can also contact Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) at 1.888.242.2100 or www.cic.gc.ca.
33
Making sense of immigration
You are responsible for maintaining your immigration status and obeying immigration regulations while studying in Canada. Check your immigration documents – study permit, work permit, and/or Temporary Resident Visa – to make sure they are accurate. Write down when they need to be renewed so you can remain in Canada without interruption. There are three categories of people in Canada: citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents. International students, foreign workers, and visitors are all temporary residents. As a temporary resident, you may have several immigration documents:
1. Permit (study permit, work permit, or visitor record) A valid permit authorizes you to remain in the country while you study, work, or visit. Visitors might have a stamp in their passport or a paper visitor record. If you are accepted to a program that is less than six months long and that will be completed by the end of your original stay in Canada, you do not need a study permit, but you should consider applying for one anyway. That way, if you decide to study longer, you can simply extend your study permit and avoid a complicated application process abroad.
C SPE
I
N ME
2. Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) A Temporary Resident Visa is used only for entry into Canada. It is recommended that you maintain a valid TRV but it is not mandatory while you are in Canada. Only citizens of certain countries require a TRV. (See www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/ visas.asp for a list of these countries.) A TRV may allow “single entry” or “multiple entry”; it can be obtained from within Canada or through
a Canadian visa office (such as a consulate or embassy) outside of Canada.
3. Passport If your passport will expire while you are in Canada, all of your Canadian immigration documents will normally expire at the same time. In most cases, you can apply to extend them after you obtain a new passport. Passport applications can take up to three months, so apply for a new passport as soon as possible to avoid interrupting your studies. To apply for a new passport, contact the nearest visa office for your country (search online for foreign embassies and consulates in Canada).
Extending your permits
Study permits, work permits, and visitor records must be extended if you will be staying in Canada past your document’s expiry date. Apply by mail or online to the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville, Alberta, three or four months before your current permit expires. Check the CIC website for processing times at www.cic.gc.ca/ english/information/times/temp.asp. Paper applications generally take longer than online applications. You can access the online application at www. cic.gc.ca/english/e-services/index.asp. Paper applications are available online at www.cic.gc.ca/ english/information/applications/menu-inside.asp. If you prepare a paper application, make a photocopy for your own records. If an application is lost, it is easier to send a copy than to reassemble the documents. Send documents by express or priority mail (at the post office) so you can prove they arrived safely. Keep your receipt. Applications made online or mailed to Vegreville must be sent from a Canadian address, and the address you list on your application must be in Canada. Your application may be rejected if it is incomplete, so fill it out carefully. If you are unsure of your responses, complete the application to the best of your ability, save and
34 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
print the answer summary page, and review it with an international student advisor before submitting your final answers electronically. You may submit one application form to renew all of your family members’ study permits, work permits, and visitor records, but you will have to pay a processing fee for each document.
☞
Your application must be received by CIC on or before the day your previous document expires. Otherwise, you will lose status in Canada and must stop studying and working immediately. If this happens to you, speak with an international student advisor right away. Once you get your new permit, don’t forget to apply to extend your health insurance (MSP). For more information go to p. 60.
EXTENDING A STUDY PERMIT
As part of your online application, you will need to upload the following in PDF format: • Official
letter confirming your student status and the expected duration of your program. You can download this letter from the Student Service Centre, www.students.ubc.ca/ssc (proof of enrolment letter). If your program is taking longer than expected, obtain a letter from the academic advising office or Co-op office or, if you are a graduate student, your graduate secretary, advisor, or supervisor.
• Proof
of funds, which could include an official statement from your bank; evidence of scholarships, fellowships, or teaching or research assistantship appointments; or proof of sponsorship from an individual or institution. Normally you are required to show that you have the following minimum amounts to cover living expenses: $10,000 per year for yourself, $4,000 for a spouse/partner, and $3,000 for a child.
• Photocopy
of your passport. Scan and upload as a PDF file your photo page plus all Canadian stamps or visas.
that you paid your application fee ($125). You can pay online with a credit card through the CIC website as part of the online application process. You may choose to pay your application fee at a bank. To pay at a bank, pick up an original receipt of payment form (IMM 5401) at I. House or ask CIC to mail one to you, and then go to your bank to make a payment. After that, scan and upload a copy of the receipt form with a bank stamp as part of your online application.
EXPIRED STUDY PERMITS
Implied status If your permit expires after CIC receives your extension application and while you are waiting for Vegreville to process your application, you have “implied status” in Canada until you receive a response. This means that your expired document is still considered valid until a decision is made about your extension application. It is best to remain in Canada while you have this status. You may be unable to re-enter Canada without a valid permit, or if you are permitted, you may be unable to study or work until the new document arrives. Talk to an international student advisor for advice. Restoration of status If your permit expires before CIC receives your extension application, you will be “out of status.” You are not authorized to attend classes or work while you are out of status. You can apply to restore your immigration status, which requires a restoration fee of $200 as well as the standard $125 renewal fee. You have 90 days from the day you went out of status to apply for restoration. An international student advisor should review your application before you submit it. If you have not applied to extend your study permit and it expired more than 90 days ago, you will have to apply outside of Canada for a new study permit, and you might be barred from applying for up to six months. See an international student advisor if you find yourself in this situation.
TRANSFERRING FROM ANOTHER INSTITUTION
If you already have a valid study permit for postsecondary study in Canada, you may use that study permit to study at UBC (unless otherwise noted on the study permit). As a post-secondary student, you can transfer between programs of study and institutions without applying to change the conditions of your study permit. You can also transfer between public and private institutions. If you hold a valid off-campus work permit that was issued while you were at your previous school,
35
IMMIGRATION
If you have a question about an application processed in Vegreville, you can see an international student advisor or call the CIC Call Centre (1.888.242.2100, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Mountain Standard Time on weekdays) and request information about your case. Make sure you know your Client ID, which is an eight-digit number on your study permit. If the Call Centre staff refers your question to Vegreville, you should get a reply within a few business days.
• Proof
you must transfer that permit to UBC (see p. 43 for details).
“DOES NOT AUTHORIZE RE-ENTRY”
All study permits include the phrase “does not authorize re-entry.” This is to remind you that if you require a TRV, your study permit alone will not be sufficient to re-enter Canada (unless you are returning from the United States, see p. 37). Also, a CIC officer can prevent you from reentering Canada if the officer determines that you are not following immigration regulations (e.g., you have been working off campus without a work permit) or you have stopped attending classes. We recommend that you carry documents showing that you are a current UBC student (e.g., a proof of enrolment letter from www.students.ubc. ca/ssc). For most students, re-entry into Canada will be routine and these documents will not be requested, but it is a good idea to be prepared.
Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs)
Depending on your citizenship, you may require a Temporary Resident Visa to enter Canada. The TRV is different from a study permit: it is used to enter Canada, while a study permit allows you to remain in Canada. TRVs are often issued for the same length of time as a study permit. You do not need a valid TRV while inside Canada, but it is a good idea to keep a valid one in case of sudden trips abroad. If you are currently in Canada with a valid study or work permit you may apply for a new TRV by mail through the Case Processing Pilot office in Ottawa. Note 1: If you are currently outside of Canada, you may apply through the nearest Canadian visa office or an office responsible for your region. Note 2: Please note, student family members (who do not hold a study or work permit) and visitor record holders can only apply for a new TRV through the Canadian visa office in their home country or visa office responsible for their region. Please refer to CIC website for the most up to date information or see an international student advisor. Application forms are available at www.cic. gc.ca/english/information/applications/visa.asp. Applications to the Case Processing Pilot office in Ottawa only require one TRV checklist. All other applications, in addition to the document checklist on the CIC website, require you to also download the TRV checklist on the website of the Canadian visa office outside of Canada where you will apply for your TRV. Prepare all the required documents according to the Canadian visa
36
office’s TRV checklist and read all the detailed information on their websites, especially about the method of payment, processing time and mailing instructions. If you send your application to the Case Processing Pilot office in Ottawa or a Canadian visa office outside of Canada you will be asked to include your original passport. Each visa office has a different processing time, which you can check on their website. It may be four to eight weeks before your passport is returned and you receive your new TRV. If you have travel plans, make sure you give enough time for TRV application. Be cautious about booking a flight before you receive your TRV. Consider applying for a BCID (see p. 83) before mailing your passport so you have a valid photo ID in the meantime.
Applying for a study permit while you are in Canada
If you are a visitor and have been admitted to UBC, you can apply for an initial study permit at a Canadian visa office outside of Canada. You may wait up to three months to receive the results of a medical examination. US citizens can apply for an initial study permit at the border.
If you have a work permit or are an accompanying partner/spouse or child, you can apply for a study permit online or by mail through the office in Alberta, as if you were extending one. See p. 37 for details. Regardless of your nationality, if you ☞ have lived in or visited a country on the CIC
medical examination list at any time during the one year period immediately preceding the date of seeking entry to Canada, for six consecutive months, then you are required to undergo an immigration medical examination. Check out the designated countries list at: www.cic.gc.ca/english/ inFORMation/medical/dcl.asp.
Travelling outside of Canada
It is important to renew your documents before you travel. If your study permit will expire while you are outside of Canada, you should speak with an international student advisor. It is possible to apply for a new study permit while outside of Canada but it may take longer depending on where you are. Check the processing times online to be certain you have enough time to get your paperwork processed. Processing times are available at www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Returning to Canada
Border-crossing etiquette in Canada may be different from what you have experienced elsewhere. Here are some tips to ensure that your border experience is as smooth as possible. • Have
all your documents ready.
• Answer
every question truthfully and consistently.
• Don’t
offer more information than is requested; give short answers; offer only the information that is requested; and don’t hesitate.
• Expect
• Do
not use cell phones in the Customs area.
• Cross
the border during office hours if your case is complicated.
You may have to pay duty on the goods and gifts you are bringing into Canada. Keep all receipts, calculate the total and show them to an officer if asked. For information on what you are allowed to bring in and personal exemptions (goods that you are allowed to bring in duty-free), consult the “Guide for Residents of Canada Returning to Canada” by the Canada Border Services Agency: www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/ bsf5056-eng.html. US citizens will need to present a valid passport to Customs when entering Canada or returning to the United States. See http://travel.state.gov/ travel/cis_pa_tw/cis_pa_tw_2223.html.
☞
It is best not to leave Canada while an immigration document extension is being processed if your current document will expire while you will be abroad. Please see an international student advisor for details.
Visiting the United States
If you have a valid study permit, work permit, or visitor record, and if you leave Canada and visit only the United States, you do not need a valid TRV to re-enter Canada.1 Some airlines are not aware of this regulation, so check with your airlines before you travel, then print and bring a copy of the relevant legislation when you travel.
To enter the United States, however, citizens of 1 According to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, Part 9, Division 5, Section 190:3f (laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/ SOR-2002-227/page-62.html#h-89).
If you have found a summer internship in the United States, contact the US Consulate’s visa section to find out the type of visa you will need. Inquiries are accepted by fax (604.685.7175) or email at vancouverNIV@state.gov. You may need to find a US-based organization to act as your sponsor. For a list of possible sponsors, consult the US Department of State website at www.exchanges.state.gov/jexchanges.
Taking a break from your studies
Students sometimes take a short break from their studies because of illness or academic pressure. International students are normally permitted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada to remain in Canada and take one term off if they’ve already completed two consecutive terms. Consult an academic advisor and contact an international student advisor if you are considering taking a break from your studies. Graduate students need to apply for a leave of absence from the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FoGS).
If you plan to leave the country during your break, request a letter from your academic advisor or graduate secretary. The letter should state that you are eligible to return to your program of studies. If asked by a customs officer, present this letter along with any documentation of your break (e.g., leave approval from FoGS, doctor’s note). If you hold an off-campus work permit and take a break from studies, you will have to return your work permit to CIC. See p. 43 for details.
Staying in Canada as a visitor
To stay in Canada as a visitor after you complete your studies (if your study permit is going to expire), you need to apply for a visitor record. You can apply by mail from within Canada to change your immigration status to visitor. Once you switch to a visitor record, you cannot apply for a post-graduation work permit, and any new application for a study permit or work permit must be made at a visa office outside of Canada.
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IMMIGRATION
waits of one to three hours. Alert those who will pick you up that you may be delayed and unable to reach them by phone.
some countries will require a US entry visa. All applicants for US visas must submit an online application at usvisa-info.com/en-CA/selfservice/ ss_country_welcome. After you log in, follow the online instructions and you will be invited for a visa interview at the Consulate General of the United States at 1095 West Pender Street in Vancouver (604.685.4311). Be sure to book your visa appointment long before you travel, as your US entry visa may take up to four months to process.
Documents for family members
Canadian immigration policy regards ☞ an international student’s common-law
If your family members will accompany you to Canada, they should apply at the same time you apply. In the case of most students, ‘family’ includes spouses, partners and children. Family most often come as visitors. Spouses or partners of international students can apply for work permits after they arrive in Canada. The work permit will be issued for the same length of time as the partner’s study permit and will allow up to full-time work. Your spouse or partner does not need a job offer to apply for a work permit. In some cases, Canadian visa offices abroad will process spouse/partner work permit applications at the same time as the study permit applications. In this case, you will need to include the additional fee for the work permit, and complete the work permit application for your spouse or partner, available from the website of the consulate. Spouses/partners who do not require a TRV may be able to apply for a work permit at the border or at the port of entry where they enter Canada. See p. 44 for details. Your school-age children (18 years of age or younger) do not require study permits, but study permits, rather than visitor records, can make the immigration process run more smoothly, especially if your child enters Canada without a parent. You should bring two years of official school records for your children, in English or with a certified English translation. Family members may need to apply for TRVs and may need to undergo and pass a medical examination. See p. 36 for details. If your family members enter Canada without you, they may be admitted on visitor status for six months. Visitors admitted for six months or less are not eligible for BC’s Medical Services Plan (health insurance) so apply right away to extend or change their documents. To ensure that your family members travelling without you are admitted to Canada as visitors for the length of your study permit, be sure to send them copies of the documents listed above for them to present at the Canadian border crossing. When extending documents, all dependants (including children) require their own documents, so extend their documents before the expiry date and pay the appropriate fee for each person. Visitor documents may include a stamp in the passport or a visitor record. An undated Customs stamp normally authorizes the visitor to remain in Canada for six months. Your family members should make sure their passports get stamped during the border crossing.
partner in the same manner as a legal spouse. CIC defines “common-law partners” as people of the same or opposite sex who currently live together and have lived together in a conjugal relationship of at least one year. If you intend to demonstrate common-law status in the future, it is advisable to establish legal ties early (e.g., joint leases, joint bank accounts). See www. cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/sponsor/ spouse-apply-who.asp for more information.
INVITING FAMILY TO VISIT YOU Your family members can accompany you to Canada or you can invite them to visit you after you arrive. The following supporting documents are required: •P roof
of enrolment letter (available for download at www.students.ubc.ca/ssc) from Brock Hall or your faculty/department that states your current student status, how long you plan to study at UBC, and whether you have a teaching or research assistantship or other source of income, such as a scholarship
• A
letter from you to the visa office where your family members apply for their visa that states how long you have been in Canada and provides pertinent information, including your current financial situation; your family members’ address(es), telephone number(s), birthdate(s), and occupation(s); and the intended duration of your family’s stay in Canada
•L etter(s)
from a bank, employer, scholarship provider, etc., that proves your or their financial status
•A
copy of your marriage certificate or proof of common-law status
•A
copy of your study permit
Send these documents to your family members so they can present the documents to the Canadian visa office through which they will apply for temporary resident status. Be sure to make copies of these documents. Keep one copy for yourself. Ask your family members to contact the Canadian visa office as soon as they receive the documents.
38 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Lost or stolen passports
If your passport is lost or stolen, follow the steps below and contact an international student advisor for advice: 1. Report your lost or stolen passport to the nearest Vancouver police department or RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) office. There is a RCMP office on campus at 2990 Wesbrook Mall, phone 604.224.1322. Keep any file numbers or documents they provide so you can prove that you contacted them.
ZAHRA MAMDANI Class of 2014 Home country: Tanzania Degree: Bachelor of Science Specialization: Integrated Sciences in Microbiology, Physiology, and Public Health
3. Apply to replace your study permit. You can download the replacement application form from www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/ applications/certcopy.asp. Applications for lost permits are processed at CIC in Vancouver for a fee of $30. It’s a good idea to keep photocopies ☞ of all your important documents (including your credit cards, passport, immigration documents, bank information, and health insurance cards) in a safe place in case the originals are lost or stolen.
The size of the student population at UBC was extremely overwhelming at first. Coming from a very small high school, I dreaded being a mere number among 45,000. I was afraid I would never be able to feel part of a community. However, the more I got involved on campus (through clubs, on-campus jobs, volunteering, etc.), the more I got to know people who shared a common ground with me and in no time I was able to find the sense of belonging that I sought. The size and diversity of the student body allows every student to find his/her own niche. Recent achievements: Bringing light to the lives of others and making a difference no matter how small that difference may be; volunteering with a Community Service Learning Reading Week project; International Leader of Tomorrow Award.
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IMMIGRATION
2. Contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Canada and ask for instructions on how to apply for a new passport. You can find your country’s nearest embassy or consulate in Canada on the website of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada at www.international.gc.ca/protocol-protocole.
Working & Volunteering Many international students are interested in working or volunteering while they attend UBC. Work experience can provide great career preparation, exposure to the Canadian workplace, and a closer connection to the local community. It can also provide a little extra spending money. Keep reading to find out what kinds of work you can do as an international student.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s s
How to work on or off campus
s
How to apply for a Social Insurance Number
s
Where to look for volunteer opportunities
How to apply for a postgraduation work permit
40 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Can I work in Canada?
You may work on campus if your study permit is valid for six months or more and you are a full-time international student registered in credit courses. Full-time has many definitions at UBC, but in this case it means the definition used by your academic program. If you are an undergraduate student, you may work on campus during the Summer Session without being registered in any courses as long as you were registered full-time during the previous academic year (Winter Session Term 1 and 2.). Working off-campus requires a work permit. Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, work is defined as “an activity for which wages or commission is earned, or which competes directly with activities of Canadian citizens or permanent residents in the Canadian labour market” (www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work.asp).
Working on campus
By working on campus, you can expand your social and professional networks by being more involved in the campus community and enhance your learning through workplace experiences in an academic setting (e.g. through research-oriented positions). A portion of international undergraduate student tuition fees goes towards funding of subsidized on-campus work opportunities for eligible international students. For more information, visit www. careers.ubc.ca. If you have any questions about your eligibility to work on campus, you can consult an international student advisor. On-campus employment is defined as employment within the boundaries of the campus or in facilities owned, leased, or rented by UBC. For example, your employer may be the University, a student organization, or a private contractor operating within the boundaries of the campus, such as businesses in the University Village. On-campus employment includes work at facilities such as teaching hospitals, clinics, and research institutes, which may be located off campus but have a formal association or affiliation with UBC, and which are located within the City of Vancouver. This includes UBC’s Robson Square campus in downtown Vancouver. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) does not limit the number of hours students are permitted to work on campus. However, some UBC employers may restrict the hours students can work.
With the exception of the co-op work permit, all work permit applications can be made online. Applications and instructions for work permits are available at I. House or online at www.cic.gc.ca/ english/information/applications/work-students. asp. Applications are processed at the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville, Alberta, within two to six weeks. Processing times vary throughout the year, and it is your responsibility to check the times before applying. To check estimated processing times, please see the following website, but note that these times are not guaranteed: www.cic. gc.ca/english/information/times/temp.asp. Check www.students.ubc.ca/international for up-to-date information or for instructions when encountering difficulties with the online applications.
OFF-CAMPUS WORK PERMIT ELIGIBILITY
Eligible international students attending participating post-secondary institutions can apply to work off campus while they complete their studies.
To be eligible for an off-campus work permit, you must: • Be currently academically eligible and in a degree, diploma, or certificate program at UBC Academic eligibility is defined by ☞ UBC as follows: Undergraduates must be registered in 9 credits per term (Term 1, Term 2, or both Summer Session terms combined). Graduate students must be registered or have continuing status.
• Have
been academically eligible at a participating post-secondary institution for at least six out of the past 12 months (including co-op work terms and outbound exchanges) • Have maintained satisfactory academic standing in your program of study (defined at UBC as “eligible to continue”)
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WORKING & VOLUNTEERING
It is important to know your rights as an employee. To learn about BC employment standards, visit the Ministry of Labour website at www.labour.gov. bc.ca/esb. If you believe your rights have been violated, contact an international student advisor.
Working off campus
All types of off-campus work require a valid work permit before you begin your job. Volunteering does not require a work permit. If your volunteer position could be considered work according to the CIC definition, you will need a work permit. If you are asked to volunteer for a job that is normally performed by paid employees – photocopying, customer service, etc. – a work permit is needed.
Co-op work permits and off-campus ☞ work permits are not the same, but students may hold both permits if they meet the eligibility requirements for each one.
You are NOT eligible to apply for an off-campus work permit if you: • Are a visiting, exchange, unclassified, Continuing Studies, or Access Studies student at UBC • Have a partial or full scholarship from: - the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) - the Government of Canada Awards Program, funded by DFAIT - the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) • Are participating in the Equal Opportunity Scholarship Program (Canada-Chile), the Canada-China Scholars Exchange Program, or the Organization of American States Fellowship program • Are registered in a program that consists either exclusively or primarily of English or French as a second language • Have previously held an off-campus work permit, failed to maintain your eligibility, and failed to surrender your work permit. However, if you became ineligible for the program and surrendered your work permit, you may reapply for a work permit if you meet the eligibility requirements at a later date If you are in your final term of study ☞ at UBC and are studying part-time, you are
eligible to apply for or continue using an existing off-campus work permit provided that you were academically eligible for 6 out of the past 12 months. Once you begin your online application for the off-campus work permit, you will receive information about how your faculty or department can document that you are in your final semester.
HOURS OF WORK PERMITTED
Undergraduate students with off-campus work permits may work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the regular academic year (September to April) and full-time during scheduled breaks (Summer, Winter, and mid-term breaks). Undergraduates who were academically eligible in the previous Term 1 and Term 2 are eligible to
apply for or retain an off-campus work permit during Summer break and are eligible to work fulltime, regardless of their summer course load. Graduate students are normally considered to have an ongoing, full-time relationship with the University and therefore may work a maximum of 20 hours per week throughout the year. They may work full-time during Winter Break and Reading Week.
APPLYING FOR AN OFF-CAMPUS WORK PERMIT
The application process will be easier if you prepare all documents in advance: 1. Create an “Access Key” and applicant profile by registering with MyCIC: www.cic.gc.ca/ english/e-services/mycic.asp. 2. When prompted online, request that UBC provide you with an Electronic Verification Number (EVN), which confirms that you are eligible for the work permit. Log out of the CIC website after you have submitted your request for verification. Your online request for verification will be processed by UBC in three to five business days. You will receive a notification from CIC in your MyCIC account once it has been processed. This message will contain an EVN and a link to the next part of the online application. If you need to apply for a study permit ☞ and an off-campus work permit, it is best to apply for them at the same time. In most cases your off-campus work permit will be valid until the expiry of your new study permit. Visit the CIC application site at www.cic.gc.ca/english/e-services.
3. Have your passport and study permit available as you complete the next step. Plan to spend about an hour at your computer completing this part of the application. If you are unsure of your responses, complete the application to the best of your ability, save and print the answer summary page, and review it with an international student advisor before submitting your final answers electronically. 4. At the end of the application, you will be asked to submit a scanned copy of your passport, including the information and photo page and any pages that refer to your stay in Canada. You will upload this information as a single PDF file.
42 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
5. You will be asked to pay an application fee ($150). You can pay either online with a credit card or at a local bank with a receipt form available from I. House. If you pay at a local bank, you can scan and upload the receipt as a PDF file. 6. If CIC has any questions after you apply, they will contact you at the email address on your application. 7. Your application for the off-campus work permit must be submitted within two months of the date that it was started. After two months, your unsent application will expire and you will need to begin a new application. You must have your work permit before ☞ you can begin working off campus.
What happens if I lose my eligibility? If you become ineligible for the off-campus work permit, you must stop working off campus and surrender your work permit to CIC. To be sure it is received by CIC, mail the official work permit to the local CIC office, at 1148 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2C3. Before mailing your permit, make a photocopy of it for your records. In the envelope, also include: • A
letter you have prepared, including your full name, client ID number, the day you became ineligible, a brief explanation of why you are ineligible, and your signature
Use a tracking service such as Xpresspost from Canada Post. Be sure to print and keep the receipt showing that the package arrived successfully at CIC. If you surrender your work permit, you may re-apply at a later date when you meet the eligibility requirements.
Does UBC report on student eligibility? On November 1 each year, UBC must provide CIC and the BC Ministry of Advanced Education with a report of students who have become ineligible for the off-campus work permit program. As part of the application for the off-campus work
Transferring with an off-campus work permit If you transfer to or from UBC and hold an offcampus work permit already, you must notify CIC that you are transferring your off-campus work permit. Do this as soon as possible. If you do not, you will be reported to CIC by your former school as ineligible for the off-campus work permit program. This could prevent you from applying for other permits in the future. Notify CIC, UBC, and your previous institution of your transfer using the MyCIC online portal. Under the tab “What do you want to do today?” Click the link “Transfer my verification” and follow the instructions.
TRANSITION TO POST-GRADUATION WORK PERMIT
Students who have completed all degree, diploma, or certificate requirements and who are within the 90-day period allowed for transition to postgraduation employment will still be considered eligible to work off campus full-time, provided they have a valid study permit and off-campus work permit.
If you want to be able to work while applying for your post-graduation work permit, be sure to submit your online request for an Electronic Verification Number (EVN) at least a week before your degree is conferred.
Co-ops & internships
If you are required to work as an integral part of your studies or you are enrolled in a co-op program, you may be permitted to work off campus full-time. You will need a co-op work permit from CIC to do so. When you apply for your co-op work permit, be sure to include evidence showing that the employment is mandatory for the completion of your academic program (such as a letter from the Co-op office). No application fee is required. A co-op work permit is different from an off-campus work permit, but you may hold both if you meet the criteria for each. Co-op work permit applications are available online from CIC at www.cic.gc.ca/ english/study/work.asp. Co-op work permits are usually issued for the same length of time as the study permit. When you extend a study permit, you will need to extend your co-op work permit. If you must extend your study permit and apply for a co-op work permit at the same time, you can apply for both permits together. Check with an
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What does it mean to “maintain eligibility?” To continue to be eligible to hold an off-campus work permit, you must maintain academic eligibility (see p. 41). However, in your final term of studies, you are permitted to be registered in less than full-time studies and continue to use your work permit.
permit, you will be asked to give your consent for UBC to share this information.
international student advisor to be sure you have all the forms required for BOTH applications. The co-op work permit application is currently a paper form submitted by mail to CIC in Vegreville, Alberta.
Employment for spouses & partners
Accompanying spouses or common-law partners of study permit holders can apply for open work permits that last as long as the study permits of their student partners, if the student is studying full-time at the time of application. Most partners come as visitors and apply for a work permit by mail once they are in Canada. However, partners who do not require TRVs may be able to apply at the border. When applying, it is important that partners include a photocopy of their student partner’s study permit and official UBC enrolment letter along with other required documents. When you extend your study permit using the online application system, you can apply for new documents or extend the documents of all of your dependants at the same time, including work permits for partners and spouses. There will be a fee for each document requested. If spouses or partners who have work permits choose to apply for study permits later, their work permits will remain valid but they may not be allowed to extend them. Accompanying spouses or common-law partners of post-graduation work permit holders can also apply for work permits as long as the post-graduation work permit holder has secured employment at Skill Type 0, A or B on the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) list. For further information, please refer to the CIC website: www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/ apply-who.asp.
Post-graduation employment
If you are graduating from a degree, diploma, or certificate program of at least two years in length, you can apply for a work permit that will allow you to work in Canada for up to three years. A job offer is not required to apply for this permit. Students who have completed programs of more than eight months and less than two years may apply for permits that are the same length of time as their program. Two years is currently defined as at least 16 months of study, though this may not be uniformly applied. You are eligible for only one post-graduation employment period in your lifetime. It is a good idea to begin researching jobs for post-graduation as early as possible during your studies at UBC. The post-graduation work permit allows you to work part-time, full-time, or on contract. After completing your studies, you must apply for and receive a work permit before you can begin working unless you already hold a valid work permit, such as the off-campus work permit.
What if your study permit expires close to graduation? If your study permit is not valid for 90 days after your final marks are available or you have submitted your thesis or dissertation, you can apply for a study permit “bridging extension” prior to the permit’s expiry date. You can apply online or by mail. You may also apply for an off-campus work permit for the same time period, to allow you to work full-time for 90 days after completing your studies and before you have received your post-graduation work permit. In your online application, indicate that you are applying for a “bridging extension” to cover the 90 days needed to apply for post-graduation employment, or choose the option “apply for a study permit and an off-campus work permit” if you wish to work after completing studies and before receipt of your post-graduation work permit. Note: If you submit your application ☞ for the post-graduation work permit in the
90-day period and before your study permit expires, you have implied status and do not need a bridging extension. You may not work during this period unless you have a valid off-campus work permit.
44 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
APPLYING FOR A POST-GRADUATION WORK PERMIT As soon as your final marks are available or you have submitted your thesis or dissertation, you have 90 days in which to apply for your post-graduation work permit. The date of your graduation ceremony does not affect the application period.
The application process will be easier if you prepare all documents in advance: 1. Create an “Access Key” and applicant profile by registering with MyCIC at www.cic.gc.ca/ english/e-services/mycic.asp.
3. At the end of the application, you will be asked to submit a scanned copy of your passport, including the information and photo page and any pages that refer to your stay in Canada. You can upload this information as a PDF file. 4. Y ou
will also need to upload a scanned copy of an official transcript from UBC (needs to be final – i.e. under the “UBC Credentials” section on your transcript, it must state the date your degree was granted), or, if a final transcript is not yet available, obtain an official letter from UBC indicating you successfully completed your academic requirements. You can request this letter from your faculty or program office. Check with the relevant office to inquire about the earliest date they can issue you the letter. Not all academic advising offices will be able to issue letters as soon as you complete your studies.
5. You will be asked to pay an application fee ($150). You can pay either online with a credit card or at a local bank with a receipt form available from I. House. If you pay at a local bank, you can scan and upload the receipt as a PDF file. 6. If CIC has any questions after you apply, they will contact you at the email address on your application.
Processing times for post-graduation work permits vary throughout the year, and it is your responsibility to be aware of this. To check estimated processing times, please see the following website, but note that these time are not guaranteed: www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/ temp.asp. Please be aware that processing times can take up to six weeks or more.
TRAVEL DURING THE POSTGRADUATION WORK PERMIT PERIOD
We encourage you to apply for the postgraduation work permit online and stay in Canada until you have received the permit before you travel outside of Canada.
If you must leave Canada after your application has been submitted, but before the permit has been received, please consult an international student advisor about how to receive your permit abroad, so that you can use it to re-enter Canada or to apply for a TRV (temporary resident visa) abroad. Travelling on a post-graduation work permit is different than travelling on a study permit. You may exit and re-enter Canada during the period of your post-graduation work permit. However, you must always carry proof of your current situation when you travel, as border officials often ask to see proof of your status when you are travelling on a work permit. The same proof will be needed when you apply for a TRV.
PROOF OF YOUR CURRENT SITUATION
If you have a job in Canada: • carry
an official letter from your employer, stating your duties, wage and dates of employment. If your job pays less than $10,000/ year, you should also carry proof of funds (a bank statement) showing that between your salary and your savings (or your family savings) you have at least $10,000 available to support yourself in Canada.
If you do not have a job in Canada: •c arry
proof of funds in the amount of $10,000 available for your support this year (a bank statement or a copy of your parent’s bank statement).
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2. Have your passport and study permit available as you complete the next step. Plan to spend about an hour at your computer completing this part of the application. If you are unsure of your responses, complete the application to the best of your ability, save and print the answer summary page, and meet with an international student advisor before submitting your final answers electronically. Bring the summary page printout to your appointment.
7. Your online application for the post-graduation work permit must be submitted within two months of the date that it was started. After two months, your unsent application will expire and you will need to begin a new application.
•c arry
proof that you are going to try to get a job in Canada, such as copies of your resume and any cover letters you have sent out recently to apply for jobs.
Staying in Canada
If you are interested in staying in Canada after your post-graduation work permit expires, it may be possible to do so. You may be eligible for the Canadian Experience Class of Permanent Residency, the BC Provincial Nominee Program for Permanent Residency, or your employer can apply for a Labour Market Opinion (LMO). If your home country has a reciprocal agreement with Canada, you may also be eligible for a NAFTA work permit or an International Experience Canada visa (formerly working holiday visa).
CANADIAN EXPERIENCE CLASS
Canadian Experience Class is a category of permanent residency for certain skilled temporary workers and international students with Canadian degrees and Canadian work experience. Please check the CIC website (www.cic.gc.ca/english/ immigrate/cec) for detailed information.
BC PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM (PNP)
The BC Provincial Nominee Program allows skilled workers and experienced business persons and their family who want to get settled in BC to apply for permanent residence through a fast-tracked stream. Qualified international students may apply for PNP within 2 years after graduation from recognized Canadian institutions. For detailed information, please visit the BC PNP website at www.welcomebc.ca/wbc/immigration/come/ work/about/strategic_occupations/international_ graduates/who.page. BC PNP also started the International PostGraduates Pilot Project for international students completing a master’s or PhD in the areas of natural science, applied science and health science. This is a three-year pilot ending in May 2013. Under certain conditions, this new program will allow you to apply for PNP even if you don’t have a job. For more information, please see: www.welcomebc.ca/wbc/immigration/come/ work/about/strategic_occupations/student_pilot/ who.page.
LABOUR MARKET OPINION (LMO)
You may also apply for a job-specific work permit if you have a job offer. However, before applying for the work permit, your employer must apply for an LMO from Service Canada on your behalf. If the opinion is favourable, you may apply for a work permit. For more information, please visit the CIC website at www.cic.gc.ca/english/hire. For assistance, employers can call the CIC Vancouver Temporary Foreign Worker Unit at 604.666.7509 or email TFWU-Vancouver-UTET@ cic.gc.ca. See www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/ employers/tfw-units.asp.
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Only those international students who have job offers for on-campus employment or work permits can apply for a Social Insurance Number. You must have a SIN to receive payment for work in Canada. Apply in person at a Service Canada office. There is no fee to submit a SIN application, and the forms are available at I. House or at Service Canada offices.
APPLYING FOR A SIN
To apply for a SIN, you must provide either: • Your
work permit and passport or
•Y our
study permit, passport, and a specifically formatted employment contract from your on-campus employer.
Details about what must be included in these contracts, as well as a sample contract for on-campus employers, are available on the Service Canada website at www.servicecanada. gc.ca/eng/sc/sin/index.shtml
The 900-series SIN You will be issued a SIN beginning with the number 9 (called a 900-series SIN). As a holder of a 900-series SIN, you will also need to show your study or work permit to an employer to clarify that you are eligible to work in Canada. Most on-campus employers should be aware of this. If you experience any difficulties, contact an international student advisor. All 900-series SINs have an expiry date. For SINs issued after 2003, the expiry date should be the same as the one on your primary immigration document (study or work permit).
In addition to BC, other provinces also have PNP programs. If you are interested in getting settled in another province through PNP, you may visit the CIC website at www.cic.gc.ca/english/ immigrate/provincial/apply-who.asp.
46 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
If your SIN is expiring, you need to ☞ extend your study permit (see p. 36) before you can extend your SIN.
Can I start working before I get my SIN card? Employers are required to ask all employees to show their SIN cards within the first three days of employment. In most situations, you can start working as long as you can prove that you have applied for a SIN. Your SIN application receipt will be enough for most on-campus employers to allow you to work right away.
MEDICAL EXAM
If you or your spouse/partner plan to work in the field of health services or with children, you must pass a medical examination required by CIC. Examples of occupations requiring a medical exam include hospital staff, clinical lab workers, and primary or secondary school teachers. If you wish to work in agricultural occupations, a medical exam is required if you have lived in certain countries for six months or more. Please visit the CIC website for details (www.cic.gc.ca). The medical exam must be performed by a doctor approved by CIC, and results may take up to three months to be processed. Check your study or work permit to make sure you are eligible to work in public health areas. If a medical exam is required, please consult an international student advisor.
Finding a job
The Canadian job market is highly competitive, and you will need initiative, patience and persistence to find a job. •C areer
Services is the best place to start your job search. From www.careers.ubc.ca, you can access the CareersOnline job board and many other employment resources.
•N otice
boards around campus often feature job postings that involve working for a professor or the department office. Department
•A sking people you know is another way to find out
about jobs. Teaching or research assistantships, for example, are sometimes given out on the basis of a personal recommendation from a professor. Make an appointment to see a Career Advisor (604.822.4011) for tips on approaching a UBC faculty or staff member and finding a job on campus.
•D rop off your resumé at the on-campus offices or
units that regularly hire students: UBC Libraries, the UBC Bookstore, UBC REC and Student Housing and Hospitality Services.
HOW TO APPLY
People usually apply for a job with a resumé and cover letter that states their interest in and qualifications for a position. In Canada, resumés and cover letters follow a particular format. A resumé should advertise your relevant skills and accomplishments, but should not contain personal information such as age, gender, marital status, or photographs. Visit www.careers.ubc.ca to find out about resumé clinics and other resources. In Canada, it is important for anyone seeking employment to present themselves as the best person for the job. To help you feel more comfortable demonstrating your abilities, visit Career Services for a workshop on interview skills or consult an international student advisor or Career Advisor.
Career planning
Whether you plan to graduate soon or in a few years, it’s never too early to begin planning your future. Visit Career Services to find out how they can help you prepare for life after graduation and achieve your career goals.
CAREER SERVICES
Career Services will help you develop career building and job finding skills. You can scan job postings and workplace learning opportunities, find career resources, and learn about career-related events on campus at www.students.ubc.ca/careers. Stay up-to-date with their blog at blog.students.ubc.ca/ careerservices.
Career preparation for international students Career Services offers job search and career consultations by appointment at their office in Brock Hall. Whether you plan to find a job in Canada, go to graduate school, return home, volunteer or travel, resources, workshops, events and and workplace learning programs are available to help you in your
47
WORKING & VOLUNTEERING
Implied status for the SIN Service Canada and Canada Revenue Agency recognize implied status up to eight weeks for those employees who experience an administrative delay after requesting a renewal of their study or work permits. This implied status is granted only if the renewal application was made prior to the expiry of the original immigration document. You should be able to keep working and receiving payments while you have implied status.
administrative staff members are also good sources of information about upcoming jobs.
choices. You could consider Post-Graduation Work Permit Info Sessions and Permanent Residency/ Provincial Nominee Program Info Sessions. Their workshops help you: • Create • Write • Be
a successful job search strategy
high-quality resumés and cover letters
successful in job interviews
For more information on career preparation for international students, visit www.careers.ubc.ca.
Connecting with employers Career Services will connect you with employers through services and programs such as: •C areersOnline:
the online job board featuring full-time and part-time jobs, internships and volunteer opportunities
• Employer • The
information sessions and career fairs
Launch a Career in Canada networking event
•T ri-Mentoring
programs (mentoring triads that involve junior students, senior students, and industry professionals)
For more information on connecting with employers, visit www.careers.ubc.ca.
UBC Alumni Affairs You can also stay connected to UBC through Alumni Affairs. Visit the Alumni Affairs website at www.alumni.ubc.ca.
Volunteering OPPORTUNITIES ON CAMPUS
There are many on-campus volunteer opportunities where you can make a difference. Visit the websites below for more information.
Centre for Student Involvement (CSI) www.involvement.ubc.ca The Centre for Student Involvement (CSI) is the hub to connect you to outstanding leadership, volunteer, and involvement opportunities. It is also the home-base for Orientations, Peer Programs, the Student Leadership Conference, and more. The CSI offers bookable space, media stations, equipment and supplies of all kinds to support studentled initiatives. Stop by Brock Hall and discover the right involvement opportunity for you. Crane Production Unit www.students.ubc.ca/go/crane The Crane Production Unit has over 100 volunteers who record textbooks on tape for students and faculty who cannot use print materials. Simon K Y Lee Global Lounge and Resource Centre blog.students.ubc.ca/globallounge Located in the Marine Drive Residences, the Global Lounge is your place to plug-in to UBC’s globally-minded student groups and programs. Check out their blog and be instantly connected to your global network at UBC.
48 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
International Student Development www.students.ubc.ca/international Opportunities include event management, peer support and academic coaching through UBC Jump Start and language support through ESL teaching. AMS Student Services www.ams.ubc.ca/services The AMS Foodbank, Speakeasy (peer support) and Sexual Assault Support Centre provide services to students at UBC, and offer volunteer and leadership opportunities.
• AMS
Volunteer Connect matches students to enriching local and international volunteering opportunities according to skills, interests, and career goals. They offer one-on-one consultations to ensure that you apply for volunteering positions that are suitable and exciting to you. Visit its website for more information www.ams.ubc.ca/services/ ams-volunteer-connect.
• Volunteer
Vancouver matches volunteers with non-profit organizations. Visit www.govolunteer. ca and search the database for opportunities.
VOLUNTEERING OFF CAMPUS
International students are permitted to volunteer off campus without holding a work permit as long as the volunteer activity cannot be considered work.
WORKING & VOLUNTEERING
Places to look for off-campus volunteer opportunities include Go Global International Service Learning (ISL), The UBC Learning Exchange Trek Volunteer program, AMS Connect, and Volunteer Vancouver.
OPPORTUNITIES OFF CAMPUS
Places to look for off-campus volunteer opportunities: • More than just a volunteer placement abroad,
International Service Learning at UBC is a unique, hands-on learning experience that will allow you to consider global issues like nutrition, HIV/AIDS, business development and education. Offered through Go Global, programs include a predeparture program at UBC, a volunteer placement in Africa or Latin America, and ongoing critical reflection. Placements take place during mid-term break, Summer, and Winter Semester. Some credit-bearing programs are available. For more information visit www.students.ubc.ca/global.
• The
UBC-Community Learning Initiative provides opportunities for you to participate in community-based initiatives at schools and community organizations by applying your academic knowledge to community priorities. Visit www.students.ubc.ca/communitylearning for more information and for application deadlines.
49
Money Matters From banking to shopping to income tax, this section will help you manage your financial life in Canada.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
How to get loans and scholarships to help finance your education
s
How to open a bank account Sales tax and tipping norms
s
How to submit income tax forms
50 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Financial assistance, scholarships & awards
As an international student, you are eligible for scholarships and awards based on academic merit. You are not eligible for financial assistance such as Canada student loans or UBC bursaries. Citizenship and Immigration Canada requires international students to have sufficient funds for tuition and living costs; therefore, students are expected to be able to support themselves. For information about on-campus employment, please refer to the chapter on Working and Volunteering (p. 40).
Undergraduate students with questions should contact Student Financial Assistance & Awards in Brock Hall. Call 604.822.5111 or visit www.students.ubc.ca/finance. Graduate students should contact the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Visit www.grad.ubc.ca/awards. There are some sources of assistance for international students who run into short-term financial difficulty, although assistance is limited. In a financial emergency, please contact an international student advisor or an advisor at Student Financial Assistance & Awards in Brock Hall to discuss funding options.
When you visit a bank, ask about accounts that offer lower service fees for students. Be sure to ask for details concerning all the possible service fees that may apply for monthly service, withdrawing and depositing money, using ATMs at other institutions, writing cheques, banking online, using debit cards, etc. These service fees can add up, so make sure you understand how you will be charged. You will probably need a chequing account, as cheques are widely used for paying rent and bills. You will have to pay a fee to order cheques, but your bank may be able to give you a few free temporary cheques to use right away. You will also be issued an ATM card, which you can use in bank machines around the city. In most cases, you can also use your ATM card as a debit (or Interac) card to pay for items directly. Charges to debit cards are deducted from your account immediately, unlike a credit card. Savings accounts offer a minimal amount of interest. Ask about other options for saving money.
Banking
If you do not have a bank account yet and need to withdraw cash from your home country’s bank, you can access your bank through the Plus or Cirrus international banking networks at an ATM. Additional fees will be charged on top of the currency transfer rates.
BANK BRANCHES NEAR UBC
Cash advances from credit cards carry high interest rates and should usually be avoided.
In Canada, banks are generally open from Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Some bank branches are open on Saturday but closed on Monday. Bank of Montreal (BMO), Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), and Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and Scotiabank branches are located in or near the University Village. Automated teller machines (ATMs) of several other banks are also located on campus.
51
MONEY MATTERS
US students can apply for student loans from the United States by visiting the “Loans for US students” section of www.students.ubc.ca/ finance/student-loans/us-students. Students from other countries can contact their home government or the Canadian government about possible financial assistance programs.
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT
To open a bank account, you will probably need to provide your UBCcard, passport, and local address. If you don’t have a local address yet, you may use the I. House address temporarily (see inside front cover for contact information). Some banks may ask for a letter of reference from your bank at home. If you don’t have such a letter, go to a different bank to open an account.
CONTENTS
To calculate your tuition cost for UBC, please consult the online budget calculator at www.students.ubc.ca/youbc/va/costs.cfm.
The following banks are located on West 10th Avenue, near Sasamat Street: CIBC, HSBC, Scotiabank, RBC, TD Canada Trust, Vancity, and Bank of Montreal.
WRITING CHEQUES
When you write cheques, you may be asked to provide a driver’s licence number or some other form of identification. The picture below illustrates how to fill out a cheque. YOUR INFO
2 1 5
4 6
1. Name of the person or business to whom you are writing the cheque 2. Date of the cheque, written numerically in the boxes provided (in day/month/year format), e.g., “06-12-2009” 3. Dollar amount of the cheque, written numerically, e.g., “55.66” 4. Dollar amount written out, e.g., “fifty-five” 5. Cents, written numerically, e.g., “66,” or “xx” if there are no cents 6. Note about the product/service being paid for, e.g., “Rent” 7. Your signature
BORROWING MONEY
If you don’t make your payments on a bank loan or credit card, you may acquire a poor credit rating, which could make borrowing money difficult in the future. Bank loans are not usually available to people who are in Canada on a study permit. Some finance companies may lend to international students, but be aware that these companies charge a high interest rate and usually ask for some form of security before granting a loan. Be sure you know what will happen if payments are not made on time. Anyone who co-signs or endorses a loan on your behalf will be responsible for repaying your loan if you can’t make your payments.
MONEY TRANSFERS
Your bank can advise you on the best way to send money home or have money transferred to Canada. Money transfer firms can also send your money electronically to any destination within a few minutes. Search online using the terms “money order service and transfer” for a list of
52
3
7
companies. Fees can be high, so find out the cost before you use the service.
Shopping STORE HOURS
In Vancouver, most stores are open Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday, noon to 5:00 pm. Large stores and grocery stores such as SaveOn-Foods are usually open until 9:00 pm or later. Some stores keep these hours only on Thursday and Friday nights. Offices are generally open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
ON CAMPUS
University Village has banks, a pharmacy, small grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants, an international food court, a used textbook store, a medical clinic, a dentist office, a health club, a cellular phone store, a video store, a hair salon, an office supply store, and an optician. Visit www. universitymarketplace.net. The SUB has a post office, restaurants, a cafeteria, a photocopy centre, bank machines, a travel agent, a hair salon, and a candy counter that also sells bus tickets and newspapers. The UBC Bookstore sells five choices of course materials including used and rental books (55% off the new price). It also sells UBC clothing and gifts, school supplies, computers and software (at student pricing), homeware and residence supplies, snacks, magazines, general books and coffee. Services include: UBCcard, U-Pass, UBC IT help services, computer after-sales support, phone plans (and help for international students), an IT charging station and donations to student and campus groups.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
The UBC Bookstore is extremely busy at the start of the term, but you can now order your course materials online (www.bookstore.ubc.ca) or rent books online (ubcbookstore.rentsbooks.com). Line-ups in the store are long, but they move relatively quickly – we’d still advise you to get there early.
☞
NEAR CAMPUS
Many supermarkets and other businesses are located on West 10th Avenue, near Sasamat Street. To get there, take the #99, #14 or #9 bus from UBC. Other popular shopping areas near campus include West Broadway at Macdonald (take the #99, #14 or #9 bus from UBC) and West 4th Avenue at Vine (take the #4 bus from UBC). There are fashionable shopping districts located downtown, including the Pacific Centre shopping mall (take #14 or #4 from UBC and get off at Granville and West Georgia) and Robson Street (take #44 from UBC). The #44 Express is the fastest way to get downtown. You can also take the #99 Express to Broadway and Cambie Street and, from there, transfer to the Canada Line skytrain at Broadway-City Hall Station.
ADVICE FOR SAVING MONEY
The best way to manage your finances is to create a budget and follow it closely. When making your budget, be sure to consider the number of months you will be studying in Canada and plan accordingly. You don’t want to run out of money. Visit www.students.ubc.ca/finance for helpful tips on budgeting.
Discount stores A number of stores offer discounted prices on everyday products. Look for dollar stores such as Dollar ’N’ Plus, Dollar Giant, and others. For discount clothing, check out Winners or outlet stores. For inexpensive household items, try stores such as IKEA, Walmart, or HomeSense. Groceries It is cheaper to buy groceries at large supermarkets such as Save-On Foods, IGA, Safeway, and Real Canadian Superstore than at convenience stores like 7-Eleven. For fresh fruit and vegetables, prices are usually lower at small produce stores (like Granville Island Market in the University Village or Kin’s Market on 10th). Choices, Capers, and Whole Foods Market carry organic and environmentally friendly products, which may be more expensive. It is also generally cheaper to buy food items in bulk (larger quantities). Some bulk stores include Real Canadian Superstore and Costco (Costco requires you to buy a membership). Look for items on sale.
Be careful when you buy things – the cost of the item may be higher than indicated on the price tag, because there is a sales tax in BC: the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which is currently 12% (will be reduced to 10% by 2014). The HST is added to the price of most retail goods and services you purchase. School supplies may be tax exempt; just ask the clerk.
Buying used items You can buy used course materials at the UBC Bookstore - look for the yellow “used” sticker. Throughout the year, you may be able to sell your used course materials back to the UBC Bookstore. You can get up to 50% back of the original price – you can look up your used book price here: w4.bookstore.ubc.ca/cgi-bin/check_book.cgi). A student-run organization called ibookUnion also buys and sells used textbooks: www.ibookunion.com.
As an international student, you can apply annually for a refund of some sales tax. See our tax section for details (p. 54).
Other options for saving money on course materials at the UBC Bookstore can be found here: www.bookstore.ubc.ca/books/course-
SALES TAX
53
MONEY MATTERS
To begin, buy only required books; suggested readings are optional and may be borrowed from the library. It’s often easier to decide whether or not to purchase additional course materials after you’ve attended the first class. Unmarked course materials can be returned to the UBC Bookstore for a full refund within two weeks of purchase.
It is common in Canada to tip people who provide you with a service, including servers in restaurants and bars, taxi drivers, and hairstylists. If the service is acceptable, a tip of 15% of the total bill (before taxes) is appropriate. Superior service warrants a larger tip (20%). The wages in some service occupations are low and tips help supplement these workers’ incomes. Tips are sometimes called gratuities.
CONTENTS
There is also a new shopping area, including a Save-On-Foods supermarket and pharmacy, a liquor store, an optometrist and dentist, a running store and food outlets at 16th Avenue and Wesbrook Mall (Wesbrook Village). There is a free shuttle from certain residences each evening. The UBC Farm is also in this neighborhood and hosts a farm market most Saturday mornings in summer.
TIPPING
materials-students/choices. Starting this year, rental books can be ordered online (ubcbookstore. rentsbooks.com/home) or bought in-store and save you 55% off the new price. Consignment and used clothing stores are popular in Vancouver; look for the Salvation Army or SPCA Thrift Shops, Turnabout, Changes, or Value Village. You can go to thrift shops for home furnishings as well, but you may find better-quality items by looking on websites such as www.vancouver. en.craigslist.ca, www.buysell.com, and www.ebay. ca. You can also check for garage or yard sales in your community newspaper.
Student card discounts Many Vancouver retailers offer discounts to UBC students. See the list in the AMS Insider, a day planner published by the AMS.
Income tax
In Canada, income tax is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The Canadian income tax year is from January 1 to December 31. If you owe income tax, you must pay it by April 30 for the preceding calendar year. You are responsible for determining your income tax status and paying the correct amount of tax. Tax forms can be confusing, so watch for the tax workshops held at I. House in late February or early March. For more information on Canadian income tax, read the sections below, visit www.cra-arc.gc.ca, or call the International Tax Services Office at 1.800.267.5177.
WHEN YOU FIRST ARRIVE IN CANADA
1. If you do not expect to work in Canada, apply as early as you can for an Individual Tax Number (ITN) (see below). This is important especially for students who receive scholarships, as UBC will require this number from you in late fall. 2. Apply now for money from the government (GST/HST credit, see below). 3. As soon as you get an ITN or SIN (see below), enter this number at www.students.ubc.ca/ ssc so UBC can give the government accurate information for your taxes.
DO I HAVE TO SUBMIT A TAX FORM?
The Canadian tax system is based on residency, not citizenship. Most international students “file a tax return” (submit an income tax form to the government) in order to receive tax credits (money from governments or the chance to lower taxes later). You must file a tax return if you:
• owe
income tax to the government
• expect
an income tax refund from the government
• are
applying for the GST/HST credit (which provides cash payments to low- and middleincome taxpayers, to help offset the costs of paying GST/HST on taxable purchases)
• are eligible to receive the child tax credit (for low-
and middle-income taxpayers with children)
• are
asked by the CRA to file a return
International students may have to pay Canadian income tax on income earned from teaching and/or research assistantships, employment, and investment and business income. Generally, students also have to report income they receive from outside of Canada. Students from countries that have a tax treaty with Canada may not have to pay Canadian income tax and may be able to request that their employer stop withholding tax from their Canadian employment income with permission from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). . You do not need to pay taxes on your ☞ income from scholarships, fellowships, or bursaries, but you must give UBC your ITN or SIN when UBC requests it for tax purposes.
SOCIAL INSURANCE NUMBER (SIN), INDIVIDUAL TAX NUMBER (ITN) OR TEMPORARY TAXATION NUMBER (TTN)
You need to have either a Social Insurance Number (SIN, p. 46), Individual Tax Number (ITN), or Temporary Taxation Number (TTN) to file your tax return. The CRA uses these numbers to identify you for income tax purposes. If you have a SIN (even if it’s expired), use it. If you do not have a SIN but have a TTN, use that. Otherwise, if you cannot get a SIN (you are not working on campus and don’t hold a work permit), apply for an ITN using form T1261 (available at www.cra-arc.gc.ca). This will save you weeks of processing time. If you do not have a SIN or TTN when you are ready to file your first tax return, send an ITN application together with the tax return, using the address on the ITN form.
54 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
GST/HST CREDIT
If you did not have any income in the previous year in Canada, consider filing a tax return anyway. You can apply to receive money (the GST/HST credit) back from the government if you are considered a resident of Canada for tax purposes. For information on the GST/HST credit, including how to apply, call 1.800.959.1953 or see CRA website at www.cra-arc.gc.ca/bnfts/gsthst/ fq_qlfyng-eng.html.
ROYDON TSE Class of 2013 Home country: Hong Kong Degree: Bachelor of Music Specialization: Composition
DEDUCTIONS
CONTENTS
To pay less tax, you may be eligible to deduct certain expenses from your tax payments. Moving expenses such as transportation and storage of personal effects, travel, and temporary accommodation may be considered eligible deductions. Save your receipts for the cost of relocating to Canada. You may also deduct child care expenses, Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contributions, and union dues.
scholarship, fellowship, or bursary income that is entirely exempt from tax under the current legislation.
MAILING YOUR TAX RETURN
When you submit your first tax return, you should send your return to International Tax Services Office, Returns Processing Division, 2204 Walkley Road, Ottawa, ON, K1A 1A8. If this is not your first year to file a tax return, you may be eligible to apply online, or send it to the local office at Canada Revenue Agency, Tax Centre, 9755 King George Highway, Surrey, BC, V3T 5E1.
HOW CAN I GET HELP WITH MY TAXES?
Each year in February or March, staff members from the International Tax Service Office of Ottawa offer a tax return workshop to international students at UBC. In March and the first week of April, trained UBC student volunteers offer free tax assistance to students through the award-winning Tax Assistance Clinics for Students (TACS) program. Appointments fill very quickly, so register early at the TACS website at www.ubctacs.org. Dates and locations will be listed in the I. House weekly email update. For more information on filing income taxes, check the website of International Student Development at www.students.ubc.ca/international/ international-students.
UBC is a hotbed of thought, creativity, passion, and opportunities. They say UBC is a place of mind, but I think it’s a place of people like yourself who seek to know and be known. My most rewarding experiences have been around the relationships that I’ve formed through involvement in my faculty, clubs, and volunteer programs. One of the biggest challenges, however, is the overwhelming amount of activities and programs that you can participate in. The word ‘no’ was one of the most valuable words to learn! You can’t do everything. Recent achievements: Winning the Land’s End Chamber Ensemble’s Emerging Composers Competition (2012) and Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber Orchestra’s National Student Composers Competition (2011); performing as a member of the Health Arts Society’s Emerging Performers Program
55
MONEY MATTERS
You cannot deduct moving expenses ☞ if your only income at the new location is
Health Insurance & Health Care Health care can be very expensive if you don’t have insurance. That’s why it’s important to understand your insurance policies and the Canadian health care system. As a UBC international student you will likely be insured by: iMED for the first few months (p. 58) Medical Services Plan (MSP) for the length of your stay (p. 60) AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan for extras not covered by MSP (p. 61)
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
What should I know about health insurance?
s
What is iMED and how does it work?
s
What is MSP and when am I eligible?
s
What is covered by the AMS/ GSS Extended Health & Dental Plan?
s
What do I need to do to see a doctor?
56 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Health insurance
Health care is very expensive in Canada if you don’t have health insurance. For example, you may have to pay over a thousand dollars per day for a hospital stay. UBC requires that all students have basic and extended health insurance for the duration of their studies. If your family members are with you in Canada, they should also have health insurance for the duration of their stay.
HEALTH INSURANCE: AN OVERVIEW
At UBC, there are three main components to full health coverage for international students: • i MED,
a temporary health insurance for the first few months (p. 58)
•M SP
(Medical Services Plan provided by BC provincial government) (p. 60)
•A MS/GSS
Health and Dental Plan, an extended insurance provided by Alma Mater Society (AMS)/Graduate Student Society (GSS) for extras not covered by MSP (p. 61)
GETTING STARTED
If these fees do not appear, you are not covered by those plans. If you think you should be covered, contact an international student advisor. 2. As soon as you arrive in BC, apply for MSP for yourself and any family members who came with you. It takes several months to process your application, so it is important to apply right away. If you will be in BC for six months or less, you are not eligible so don’t apply. If you already have MSP, you don’t need iMED coverage; follow the opt-out procedures. 3. Download, print and carry your iMED card as soon as you receive it by email (see p. 58). You should also pick up your AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan card (Pay Direct Card) and information booklet at the AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan Office (SUB, lower level, Room 61) after classes begin. The Pay Direct Card can also be downloaded on the website of the AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan under “Download Centre” at www.ihaveaplan.ca.
OVERVIEW OF HEALTH INSURANCE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS BASIC INSURANCE
EXTENDED INSURANCE
iMED
BC MSP
AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan
How you enrol
You are automatically enrolled when you register for classes
You must apply as soon as you arrive
You are automatically enrolled when you register for classes
What the plan covers
Going to see doctor for an illness or injury, and hospital visits
Going to see doctor, hospital visits and tests
Vision care, dental care, 80% of prescription drugs, and travel health coverage (not to home country)
Coverage period
First three months from arrival in Canada (or full term if you are a one-term exchange student)
Covered after first three months of waiting period
Coverage beginning in Term 1: Sept.1–Aug. 31 Coverage beginning in Term 2: Jan. 1–Aug. 31
Approximate cost
$150 for three months or $213 for one term exchange students, fee charged to your student account
$64 per month for an individual, $116 for a family of two and $128 for a family of three or more. You pay directly to MSP
$214.37 per year (subject to change), fee charged to your student account
Who is automatically enrolled?
All new international students
No one
Students who pay AMS student fees
For more information
David Cummings Insurance Services www.davidcummings.com/Imed or 604.228.8816
www.healthservices.gov. bc.ca/msp/infoben or 604.683.7151
www.ams.ubc.ca/healthplan www.ihaveaplan.ca 1.877.795.4421
57
HEALTH INSURANCE & HEALTH CARE
1. As soon as you register for classes, check your fees on your UBC student account at www. students.ubc.ca/ssc to see if you are covered by
iMED ($150 or $213) and the AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan ($214.37, subject to change).
iMED covers you for the first three months of the waiting period before you become eligible for MSP. This waiting period includes the remainder of the month you arrive in BC plus two months. For example, if you arrived in BC on August 25, you would be eligible for MSP on November 1. It is important for you to apply for MSP ☞ as soon as you arrive in BC. If you apply for
MSP in time, you will be covered by MSP by the time iMED expires.
iMED: Health insurance for new international students WHAT IS iMED?
iMED is a temporary insurance plan required as a condition of registration as an international student. All new international students who are assessed student fees are automatically enrolled when they register for the first course.
WHAT IS COVERED BY iMED?
Medical benefits cover emergency hospitalization and medical services (including outpatient treatment at a doctor’s clinic) for an unexpected sickness or injury. The full policy is available online at www.david-cummings.com/imed/ coverage.
HOW MUCH DOES iMED COST?
$150 for the first three months, or $213 if you are a one-term exchange student.
WHEN AM I COVERED?
One-term exchange students are covered for the four-month term as follows:
Winter Term 1: August 27, 2012 – January 2, 2013* Winter Term 2: December 28, 2012 – May 3, 2013* All other new international students are covered for the first three months and the coverage dates are as follows: • Winter
Term 1: August 1 – October 31
• Winter
Term 2: December 1 – end of February
• Summer
Term 1: April 1 – June 30
• Summer
Term 2: June 1 – August 31
* You will also be covered while travelling from your home country, or primary place of residence, to Canada, if your total travel is ten days or less and your arrival date is not earlier than the start date of your iMED coverage.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM COVERED BY iMED?
After you have registered for your first class, log in to your account on the UBC online student service centre (SSC) and look for iMED or IMD1 in your statement of fees. If you do not see either fee but think you should have iMED, contact an international student advisor for assistance. (Please note: Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada are not covered by iMED. If you need temporary insurance coverage, you may apply for Global Campus Health Plan from the iMED provider, David Cummings Insurance Services, at www.david-cummings.com/ ubccampus/enrolment)
WHERE DO I GET MY iMED CARD?
Your card will be sent to you from David Cummings Insurance Services via email about ten days after you register for your first class; print it and keep it with you at all times. If you do not receive your card, contact David Cummings Insurance Services at info@david-cummings.com or 604.228.8816.
HOW DO I USE MY iMED INSURANCE?
The iMED card will be emailed to you and will include instructions and contacts for emergency and claim assistance. Print the card out and place it in your wallet to carry with you. The iMED card is recognized at following medical clinics or pharmacies: • Student
Health Service (on campus) www.students.ubc.ca/livewelllearnwell/ visit-a-doctor/about-student-health-service/
• The
University Village Medical Clinic (on campus) members.shaw.ca/ universityvillageclinic
• Khatsahlano
Medical Clinics khatsclinic.ca/
• University
Pharmacy (on campus)
58 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
• Safeway
Pharmacy on West 10th Avenue.
With your iMED card, you do not have to pay to see a doctor or purchase prescription medicine in the above clinics and pharmacies. You can also see a doctor at any medical clinic or hospital in BC or elsewhere in Canada even if they do not recognize the iMED card. You will need to pay upfront and keep the original receipts and make a claim later to get reimbursed. For detailed information about making claims, visit the iMED website at www.david-cummings.com/imed/ claims.
HOW CAN I SHIFT MY COVERAGE DATES?
If you arrive in BC the month after the dates indicated above (for example, you arrive in September for Winter Term 1 or in January for Winter Term 2), you can ask to have your coverage dates shifted to include your three-month waiting period for MSP. Apply for a date change online on the iMED website at www.david-cummings.com/imed/enrolment/ coveragedates or download the Date Change Form from the same site.
If you arrive in BC the month before the dates indicated above (for example, you arrive in July for Winter Term 1 or in November for Winter Term 2), you may purchase advance coverage by downloading the Advance Coverage Application Form from the iMED website (www.davidcummings.com/imed/forms) and following the instructions. Upon receiving your application and payment, David Cummings Insurance Services will notify UBC to remove your iMED fee from your student account. One-term exchange students cannot change the dates; however, you can purchase additional days of coverage as needed. To do so, follow the instructions provided at www.david-cummings. com/imed.
CAN I OPT OUT OF iMED?
Only the following students can opt out of iMED: •S tudents
already covered by MSP before iMED coverage starts
•S tudents
covered by another Canadian provincial health plan
•S tudents
who have mandatory health insurance that is purchased by a third party as part of their scholarship (such as the Government of Canada Awards, the Commonwealth Scholarship
Please note that having insurance coverage from your home country does not make you eligible to opt out of iMED. Deadline: You must submit your opt-out requests by the end of the third week of classes if you are registering for classes during the Winter Session. If you register for Summer Session terms, the deadline is the end of the first week of classes.
HOW DO I OPT OUT? If you have MSP or any other Canadian provincial health plan, you can apply to opt out online at www.david-cummings.com/imed/enrolment/ optingout or use the DCIS Opt Out Form from the same site and fax the completed form with supporting documents to David Cummings Insurance Services at 604.228.9807. If you have health insurance purchased for you by a UBC-recognized sponsor, download the UBC iMED Opt Out Form from the same webpage and hand in the completed form with supporting documents to the I. House front desk or fax to 604.822.5099.
HOW DO I ENROL MY FAMILY?
If you are covered by iMED, you can purchase temporary insurance directly from David Cummings Insurance Services for your spouse, partner, or dependant children for the duration of their stay, or until they qualify for MSP. Download the Add Family to my iMED Plan Form at www.david-cummings.com/imed/enrolment/ familymembers and follow the instructions. If you are not yet covered by iMED, contact David Cummings Insurance Services to inquire about other health insurance options available for your dependants. For details, go to www.david-cummings.com/imed. Please be aware that if you are enrolled in iMED and add your family member(s) to your iMED account, you cannot opt out or cancel your iMED unless you withdraw your family from the iMED plan (or advanced coverage if you purchased it) before the coverage becomes effective.
HOW DO I EXTEND MY iMED COVERAGE?
If you want to extend your iMED coverage, contact David Cummings Insurance Services. Visit www.david-cummings.com/imed.
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HEALTH INSURANCE & HEALTH CARE
You must submit your date change application by the end of the third week of classes.
or scholarships managed by the Canadian Bureau for International Education) from a UBC recognized sponsor.
WHAT IF I NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR?
You can see a doctor in UBC Student Health Services or in the University Village Medical and Dental Clinic. Both are on campus and recognize the iMED card so you do not have to pay upfront. See their websites on p.58. If you see a doctor elsewhere, bring an iMED claim form with you when you go to a doctor’s office or walk-in clinic. (Claim forms can be printed from the iMED website.) Ask the doctor to complete the claim form. If you pay for a doctor’s visit and do not have the doctor complete the claim form, you may complete it yourself. Just describe the reason for your visit and the diagnosis that the doctor gave. If you are admitted to a hospital room, you must call TIC Emergency Assistance as soon as possible so you do not have to pay for the hospital bill. They are available 24 hours a day at 1.800.995.1662. If you intend to have a test or medical procedure done at a hospital, call MSH International at 1.800.672.6089 ext. 272 before the test or procedure to get proper authorization. To pay less, you may need to present a photocopy of your study permit and ask for the uninsured resident rate when going to the lab, radiology, or emergency departments or when paying for hospital services.
IMED FEE FREEZING POLICY
The iMED fee is “frozen” on your student account after the Add/Drop date, the last day to drop courses without a “W’ standing. If you want to withdraw or defer you must deregister all courses before this date, otherwise you have to pay the iMED fee, as by this time iMED has covered you for nearly two months. If you withdraw before the Add/Drop date, the iMED fee will be removed. If you withdraw after the fee freezing date and never arrive in Canada, you must send a request to international student advisors at isa@students. ubc.ca within one month after term starts. These requests will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
BC’s Medical Services Plan (MSP)
If you will reside in BC for six months or longer, apply for MSP immediately after you arrive. Applications are available at I. House, UBC Student Health Service, or online at www.health.gov.bc.ca/exforms/msp.html.
WHAT IS MSP?
MSP is BC’s provincial health insurance plan. Anyone residing in BC for six months or longer is required to enrol in MSP.
WHAT DOES MSP COVER?
MSP covers the cost of basic medical care within Canada, including most physician and hospital services. In most cases, you will not have to pay at the time you seek medical care when you show your MSP CareCard. MSP does not cover dental care, prescription drugs, routine vision care (such as eye examinations or corrective lenses), or travel. For a full list of your medical and health care benefits under MSP, visit www.health.gov. bc.ca/msp/infoben/benefits.html.
WHEN AM I ELIGIBLE FOR MSP?
There is a three-month waiting period before MSP coverage begins: this is the rest of the month in which you arrive in BC, plus two full calendar months. For example, if you arrive in BC on August 25, you will be eligible for MSP on November 1.
HOW MUCH DOES MSP COST?
MSP’s monthly costs are $64 for one person, $116 for a family of two, and $128 for a family of three or more. Information on how to pay your premiums is available at www.health.gov.bc.ca/msp/infoben/ faqas.html#options.
WHAT IS A CARECARD?
The MSP membership card is called a CareCard, and the MSP number is called a Personal Health Number. You will be sent a CareCard once MSP processes your application. Be sure to contact MSP within one month after submitting your application to confirm that they received it.
For more information about iMED, please visit the iMED website at www.david-cummings.com/ imed/faq.
60 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
I DON’T HAVE MY CARECARD YET AND I NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Any eligible person who has submitted an application will be covered after the waiting period, even if their CareCard has not yet arrived. If this is the case for you, you may need to pay at the time you receive health care, keep the receipt, and request reimbursement from MSP once your card arrives. If you show your study permit you may receive a reduced rate.
MY CARECARD WILL EXPIRE SOON. HOW CAN I EXTEND IT?
Generally, your CareCard has the same expiry date as your study permit. If your study permit expires, your CareCard will expire as well. You must first renew your study permit. After you receive your new study permit, you can send a letter along with a copy of your study permit to MSP to extend your MSP. On the letter you must include your full name, address, date of birth, CareCard number, and your request for extension. The MSP mailing address is:
CONTACT MSP
You can speak with an MSP customer service representative between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. Vancouver: 604.683.7151 Other areas of BC (toll-free): 1.800.663.7100
More information about Fair Pharmacare can be found online: www.health.gov.bc.ca/pharmacare/ index.html. International student advisors can provide further information if needed.
TEMPERARY LEAVE FROM BC: HOLD YOUR MSP ACCOUNT
If you will temporarily leave BC (e.g., for summer vacation), and you decide to temporarily hold your MSP account without paying the premium, you can call MSP at 604.683.7151 and speak with an enrolment specialist to temporarily hold your account. You will need to give them your departure and return dates. It is important to make sure your information is updated on their system. After coming back, you must call MSP to reactivate your MSP account. Do not sign an opt-out form, as this prevents you from receiving MSP for 12 months. For more information, please visit the MSP website at www.health.gov.bc.ca/msp/infoben/ leavingbc.html#absence.
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HEALTH INSURANCE & HEALTH CARE
BC Medical Services Plan PO box 9035 Stn Prov Govt Victoria, BC V8W 9E3
FAIR PHARMACARE
If you already have MSP, you may be eligible to apply for Fair Pharmacare. Fair Pharmacare is a type of assistance that will cover prescribed medications. In most cases, medications will be covered by your AMS/GSS Student Health plan (up to 80%). You may need to apply for Fair Pharmacare to cover more expensive medications for chronic health conditions that may not be covered by AMS/GSS. You must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to apply for Fair Pharmacare.
AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan AM I COVERED?
All AMS and GSS members who are students at UBC in September or January and who pay AMS fees to UBC are automatically enrolled in the AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan, including international students. To verify that you are enrolled, check your fees online and look for the “Med/dent fee.” This plan does not replace basic insurance from MSP (or an equivalent plan). To be eligible for all aspects of the AMS/GSS Health Dental Plan, you must first be covered by a basic health insurance plan such as MSP or iMED (or have equivalent coverage purchased in Canada). If you are an exchange student and you pay tuition at your home university, you are not automatically enrolled in the AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan. You may, however, be eligible to apply. It is important that you have extended health and dental coverage while you are in Canada. Visit the Health & Dental Plan office on campus for more information (SUB, lower level, Room 61). You may choose to enrol your family ☞ in the AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan. New Term 2 students can enrol their spouse and/or dependants within the first three weeks of Term 2 classes. Common law and same-sex couples are eligible. Visit www. ihaveaplan.ca or the Health & Dental Plan office for exact dates.
WHAT IS COVERED?
The plan covers many costs related to vision care, dental care, prescription medications, and more. There is also travel insurance, such as coverage during internships abroad. It does not cover travel to your home country. For a complete list of benefits, visit www.ihaveaplan.ca.
CAN I OPT OUT?
If you are already covered by an extended health and dental plan, you can request to opt out of the AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan. If you register for Winter Term 1 and you want to apply for the AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan, add your family member, or opt out, you must do so within the first three weeks of classes or within the first three weeks of your registration date, whichever is later. (New Term 2 students can opt out in the first three weeks of classes.)
I’M EXPERIENCING FINANCIAL DIFFICULTY. CAN I GET HELP WITH PAYMENTS?
If you have financial concerns, at the start of term you can apply for a partial or full reimbursement of the extended health and dental plan fee at gss.ubc.ca/wpmu/resources/health-dental-plan. The application for reimbursement requires detailed financial information.
WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?
For more information, visit www.ihaveaplan.ca, call toll-free at 1 877 795-4421, or visit the Health & Dental Plan office. Information on benefits, opting out, answers to frequently asked questions, claim forms, and enrolment forms are all available on the website.
Health care in Canada
All registered UBC students can use the Student Health Service (see below). If you wish to find a doctor for family members, visit the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC at www.cpsbc.ca. To find a dentist, contact the Association of Dental Surgeons of BC at www.bcdental.org. You are under no obligation to commit to the first doctor you visit. The following health services are available to you as an international student.
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE
Located in the UBC Hospital, the Student Health Service offers health care for registered UBC students year-round. Services are provided by family doctors and registered nurses. You can make an appointment by phone, in person, or by registering online (you must initially register in person at the clinic to use the online booking system). Same-day appointments are available for ill students. All services are confidential and most are covered by iMED and MSP. For more information, visit students.ubc.ca/ LiveWellLearnWell. To visit a doctor, visit Student Health Service in Room M334 in the UBC Hospital (2211 Wesbrook Mall), book online using MyHealth (students.ubc. ca/LiveWellLearnWell), or call 604.822.7011. M, T, F: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm W: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm (September to April) W: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (May to August) Th: 8:50 am – 4:00 pm
62 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
URGENT CARE CENTRE
The UBC Urgent Care Centre is open 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, seven days a week, to treat any medical concern that cannot wait until the Student Health Service office is open. The Urgent Care Centre is located in the UBC Hospital (2211 Wesbrook Mall).
OTHER HEALTH RESOURCES ON CAMPUS
University Village Medical & Dental Clinic 228–2155 Allison Road Tel: 604.222.2273 UBC Student Health Service 310–5950 University Boulevard Tel: 604.822.5431 UBC Dental Clinic Faculty of Dentistry 2199 Wesbrook Mall Tel: 604.822.2112 University Pharmacy 5754 University Boulevard Tel: 604.224.3202
Counselling Services Brock Hall, Room 1040 Tel: 604.822.3811
SEEING A DOCTOR
In Canada, it is common to have a family doctor or general practitioner (also called a GP) who will take you on as a regular patient. Usually, you visit your family doctor if you have a health concern or to make sure you are healthy. If you require the services of a specialist (an allergist, for example), your family doctor may refer you to the specialist and make an appointment on your behalf.
•L ist
all your health concerns at the beginning of your visit. It’s important to ensure that the doctor is aware of all your health issues before they go on to the next patient.
•A sk
your doctor questions. It is acceptable and common to ask questions and to seek a second opinion from another doctor, if you wish.
•Y our
health records are confidential. No one can see your medical documents without your permission. This includes your family, your professors, other students, and UBC administrative staff.
MEDICATION
In Canada, mild medication is available “over the counter” at the pharmacy. The “over the counter” medicine is not covered by health insurance. If you require stronger or more specialized medication, your doctor will write you a prescription, which you will need to take to a pharmacy. Prescription medicine is not covered by MSP but is covered up to 80% by your AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan. If the doctor prescribes medication, be sure to take it exactly as directed. If you feel the medicine is not helping or is making you sicker, go back to the doctor.
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Alternative medicine includes medical practices such as Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, homeopathy, etc. that are not part of the mainstream North American medical practice. These forms of medicine are not covered by MSP but may be covered by extended health plans. There are many alternative medicine practitioners in Vancouver.
If you do not have a family doctor, you can go to a walk-in clinic. You don’t require an appointment to visit a walk-in clinic. Such clinics are usually open for longer hours than a doctor’s office and are a good option if you are feeling unwell but don’t require emergency care. Check the Yellow Pages of the phone book under “Clinics” or “Physicians” for a walk-in clinic near you. If you experience a health emergency, you should go to the emergency room of the nearest hospital. Be aware that waiting times at the hospital can be several hours. In emergency rooms, a nurse will determine, in priority sequence, which patients require the most urgent care.
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Wellness Centre Irving K Barber Learning Centre, Room 183 Tel: 604.822.4858
Here are some things to keep in mind when you visit a Canadian doctor:
Wellness Your physical health and psychological well-being will affect your personal and academic success. The challenges that you face as a new student at UBC – cultural transition, academic workload, and new relationships – may impact you in unexpected ways. The information in this section will help you balance your academic and personal lives.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
What to do if you have a preexisting or chronic physical or mental health problem
s
The common experiences of cultural transition and how to manage them
s
Understanding Canadians and their culture
s
Where to go for counselling, peer or spiritual support
64 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Good health, good grades
Maintaining good health and wellness is important as you arrive in a new environment, adjust to life at UBC, and begin your academic program. That’s because your mind is ready to learn when you take care of your mental and physical well-being. In fact, research indicates that mental and physical health difficulties have a significant impact on academic success. Fortunately, there are many ways that you can proactively support your well-being so you’re ready for success, including: • Take
care of yourself physically by staying physically active, eating nutritiously, getting enough sleep, and and getting your flu shot.
• Maintain
your social well-being by staying connected to friends and family at home , while also making new friends by getting involved on campus.
• Learn
how to proactively manage stress and anxiety so your mind is ready to focus.
• Care
• Set
yourself up for academic success by establishing academic and personal goals, learning effective time management strategies and strengthening your study skills. There are a number of resources at UBC that can assist you with this.
For more mental and physical health strategies, visit www.students.ubc.ca/LiveWellLearnWell.
Reach out for support when you need assistance
Reaching out for support or when you need assistance is important. Make sure to reach out early on, instead of waiting until difficulties become overwhelming. Asking for support will make it easier for you to get back on track to success.
Counselling Services and Student Health Service are both available to assist you when you’re facing difficulties.
Is your condition being successfully treated? If yes: It is important to ensure that you can continue treatment, uninterrupted, to help you be successful in your academic program. Find out if continued treatment (medications and/or therapy) is available at UBC or in the surrounding community and what the costs are. If you have questions about this please consult an international student advisor. Consult your treating health professional (doctor, therapist etc.) to discuss whether you are well enough to take on the challenge of University in a different country at this point in your treatment. Ensure that you have enough medication to transition into UBC and for three months after you arrive. If you need ongoing care you can ask your treating health professional to send a referral letter to Student Health Service or Counselling Service. If you have a documented disability and require disability related accommodations it is important to contact a Disability Advisor in Access and Diversity (www.students.ubc.ca/access) to discuss your eligibility for service. If no: Transition to a new country, culture and academic institution is very demanding. Untreated health problems can further challenge students and can jeopardize academic success. It is important to take this into consideration in any academic decisions you make at this time.
Counselling Services
Counselling Services offers free, confidential, primarily short-term counselling for UBC students wanting assistance to deal with a wide range of concerns including depression, stress, anxiety, relationship problems and other personal difficulties. In the first appointment a counsellor will gather information to match you with appropriate services, depending on your needs.. A referral is then made to resources in the community, elsewhere on campus, or to the following services within Counselling Services: • Group
Programs: If you are dealing with concerns such as depression or anxiety, you may be referred to a group counselling program designed to help you develop skills to effectively manage these concerns. If further assistance is required after this program, a referral is made to appropriate external or internal services.
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WELLNESS
for yourself emotionally and give yourself time to adjust to your new environment. Transitioning to a new campus community can be stressful and you may have feelings and worries that you don’t normally experience. It is important to be aware of your feelings and reactions, as you begin life in Vancouver and at UBC and reach out for support early on if you feel that you are having difficulty coping. Speaking with an international student advisor can be very helpful as a starting point.
What if I have a pre-existing or chronic physical or mental health problem?
• Follow-up
counselling: If you are referred internally for follow-up individual counseling, you will be matched to one of several short-term counselling programs on the basis of the nature and urgency of your concerns. Follow-up counselling is provided by registered clinical counsellors, social workers, and registered psychologists, as well as supervised masters practicum students, pre-doctoral and post-doctoral interns. Followup appointments may be made by calling or dropping by Counselling Services.
If ongoing, longer term counselling assistance is requested and/or required, a referral will be made to appropriate external community resources. Emergencies are seen on a same-day basis to assist students who are dealing with a personal crisis that requires immediate attention. Please notify reception upon arrival if you require an emergency appointment. For more information, visit www.students. ubc.ca/livewelllearnwell. To see a counsellor, come by the Counselling Services office in Room 1040 in Brock Hall, or call 604.822.3811.
M, T, Th, F: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm W: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm (September to April) W: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (May to August) Initial appointments are available on a drop-in basis on: M, T, F: 9:30 am to 3:30 pm W: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm (September to April) W: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (May to August) Th: 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
Peer support AMS WOMYN’S CENTRE See p. 78.
PRIDE UBC
See p. 77.
SPEAKEASY (PEER SUPPORT)
Speakeasy is a free, confidential service that provides peer support, information, and crisis intervention services to the UBC community. They offer non-judgmental, supportive listening for any student or faculty member who is experi-
66 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
encing distress or seeking additional community resources. All peer counseling sessions are conducted in a private setting. To access their services, drop by their reception desk located in the SUB – North Concourse (Main Level). Contact: 604.822.9246, speak@ams.ubc.ca. Visit www.ams. ubc.ca/services/speakeasy for more information.
Cultural transitions
The process of adjusting to a new culture takes many people by surprise. Adapting to your new life at UBC may take some adjustment. Many students go through a period of being frustrated or disenchanted with their new environment, sometimes called cultural transition or “culture shock.” This is a normal part of adjusting to a new place. If you feel “lost in translation,” just remember that you are not alone – many other international students have had and will have similar experiences. Even people who move to Vancouver from other parts of Canada or from the United States go through cultural transitions.
STAGES OF TRANSITION
Although each person’s experience will be different and will depend on the individual, the following are typical stages of cultural transition:
Hostility stage In the second or third month, you may begin to notice annoying details about your new environment. It may seem as if people here don’t understand you, or you may have difficulty understanding them. You may feel frustrated, depressed, angry, or powerless when you have trouble communicating or getting things done, or seemingly for no reason at all. You might wish things could be as they are at home – or you might wish you were at home! Don’t despair. These feelings usually fade as you persist in getting to know your new environment. Acceptance stage After some weeks or months, you may start appreciating the differences between your home country and your new environment. You may regain a sense of humour and feel more balanced. The mistakes and misunderstandings that would have frustrated you before may now just make you laugh.
MANAGING CULTURAL TRANSITIONS
Here are some suggestions to help you move with purpose through the cultural transition all newcomers face. •G ive
yourself time to adjust to your new environment.
•A ttend
a club or activity that meets regularly so that you meet new people and make friends faster. Try to introduce yourself to at least one person each time you go. Write letters, send emails, or make phone calls to friends and family back home. These relationships can help keep you grounded.
•M anage
your stress by staying healthy: eat well, get enough sleep, and stay physically active.
•T alk
with other students about your cultural transition – you will be surprised by how many of them have had similar experiences.
• I f you are having difficulty with the transition, talk
to an international student advisor, Go Global advisor, or Counselling Services counsellor. In North America, talking to professionals is an accepted way of dealing with problems.
Understanding Canadians
Canada’s population is multicultural and diverse. Because of this, it can be difficult to generalize about Canadians. You will find exceptions to the general rules outlined here; however, understanding some commonly held values and attitudes may help you learn about your new environment. Freedom and individuality are very important to Canadians, who are taught as children that they are responsible for their own lives and destiny. Canadians usually see themselves as individuals more than as members of a group or even a family. At UBC, students are ultimately responsible for their own learning. Keeping track of time is also very important in Canada. You’ll make a good impression if you arrive at the stated time for appointments, meetings, classes, and social engagements. If you cannot keep an appointment or are going to be late, it is considered polite to inform those who will be expecting you. In many cases, Canadians relate to one another informally and believe that all people are equal. In Canada, it is acceptable for students to ask questions of – or even disagree with – professors, if
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Honeymoon stage When you first arrive, you may experience exhilaration, anticipation, nervousness, and excitement. Settling in takes a significant amount of time and energy. This stage can last from a few days or weeks to several months, depending on your circumstances.
Adaptation stage Eventually, you may begin to feel at home in your new environment and find greater satisfaction, both personally and academically.
they do so respectfully. Students commonly wear casual attire on campus and use slang among friends. Most Canadians are interested in meeting people from other cultures, but you will need to take the first step and introduce yourself. Making small talk can feel awkward at first but it gets easier over time. Joining clubs or playing team sports may help you meet people with common interests. Canadians tend to be polite and apologetic. They say “please” and “thank you” often. When waiting in line, Canadians tend to line up in an orderly manner and expect others to do the same. When they interrupt or bump into one another, they usually say “excuse me” or “sorry.” Many Canadians speak more than one language, but people may feel excluded if others around them speak an unfamiliar language. In a mixed language group, consider speaking so everyone can understand. Privacy is important to Canadians. It is polite to ask about someone’s work or academic major, but it is generally considered impolite to ask or discuss someone’s age, appearance (e.g., their weight), or status (e.g., how much their car costs). The belief that all people are unique individuals leads to the belief that people need time and space to themselves. It is common for Canadians to be very busy and to have to schedule time for friends. Don’t be discouraged if your new friends can only see you at pre-arranged times. Many Canadians value political correctness, which means they avoid expressions or actions that could be insulting to others. Canadians believe themselves to be tolerant of different lifestyles and customs. In reality, stereotypes and prejudice do exist in Canada.
Faith & spirituality
Staying connected to your spiritual community may help you feel more at home in Vancouver. Your spiritual well-being is connected to your overall mental health.
AMS CLUBS
PLACES OF WORSHIP
For a list of churches, temples, religious affiliations, and organizations in Vancouver, look in the Yellow Pages of your phone book under “Churches and Other Places of Worship” and “Religious Organizations.”
UBC CHAPLAINS
The UBC Multi-Faith Chaplain’s Association represents various faith groups on campus, including Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Baha’i, and Unitarian/ Universalist. Besides providing opportunities to worship, the chaplains provide personal and spiritual counselling and support. Several groups within the Chaplains Association also offer fellowship groups, retreats, and opportunities for religious study on and off campus. For more information, visit www. chaplains.students.ubc.ca or call the Rev. Roberta Fraser at 604.224.1410. See page 69 for a list and schedule of worship services on campus.
Wellness Centre
Maintaining your physical and mental health will help you succeed academically. If you ever feel overwhelmed, please talk to someone about it. If you have questions about stress, mental health, nutrition, sexual health, self-esteem, or drug use, you can drop in to talk to a Wellness Peer at the Wellness Centre (Irving K Barber Learning Centre, Room 183, lower level). More information is also available online at www.students.ubc.ca/ LiveWellLearnWell.
FOOD & NUTRITION
Good eating habits are essential for a successful academic life. The energy to learn comes from food – the fuel that sustains our energy and ability to concentrate. Of course, it’s not always easy to maintain normal eating patterns when you’re adapting to a new environment. Stress, unfamiliar foods, and hectic schedules may affect your diet. Try to be aware of these factors, plan around them, and make healthy eating a priority. Food guides (including vegetarian) are available at the Wellness Centre.
There are many religious and cultural AMS clubs that can help you connect with other students who share your faith or explore an area of spirituality that is new to you. Visit www.ams.ubc.ca/ campus-life/clubs for a complete list of AMS clubs.
68 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
SAFER SEX
Sexual intimacy has potential implications for your health and well-being. If you are or decide to become sexually active, you can visit the Wellness Centre to learn about safer sex options available in Canada, such as birth control methods, testing for sexually transmitted infections, and safer sex products (available from the Wellness Centre). Do not assume that your partner will share your values or concerns.
WORSHIP SERVICES Affiliation
Location
Times and other information
Anglican
St. Anselm’s Church, 5210 University Boulevard
Sunday: 8:30 am, 10:30 am
pointchurch.ca
Baptist
Call 604.839.0484 for worship times and locations. Brethren
University Chapel, 5375 University Boulevard
Sunday: 10:00 am, 7:00 pm
www.universitychapel.org www.vancouverhillel.ca/ubc.php
Vancouver Hillel 6145 Student Union Blvd.
Lutheran
Vancouver School of Theology 6000 Iona Drive
Muslim
Friday prayers International House 1783 West Mall
Friday: 12:30 pm (after last Sunday in October), 1:30 pm (after first Sunday in April)
Daily Prayers Brock Hall Annex, Room 2357 1874 East Mall
Visit www.msaubc.org/static-read. php?id=7 for daily prayer times.
Orthodox Christian
Holy Cross Chaplaincy St. Mark’s Chapel 5935 Iona Drive
Tuesday: 7:00 pm
Pentecostal
Point Gray Community Church 3514 West 7th Avenue
Sunday: 10:00 am pgcc.org/
Presbyterian (Korean)
Mercy Seat Church (at St. Anselm’s Church) 5210 University Boulevard
Sunday service: 1:00 pm Friday praise service: 7:00 pm Wednesday Bible study:7:00 pm Daily morning prayer: 6:00 am (from Monday to Saturday)
Roman Catholic
St. Mark’s Chapel, 5935 Iona Drive
Sunday: 11:00 am, 7:00 pm Weekday Eucharist during term: 12:10 pm Reconciliation: Wednesdays, 11:30 am Student Mass and free soup lunch: Wednesdays, 12:10 pm Video Divina (movie and discussion): Wednesday evenings Speak Your Piece (student debate and lunch): Mondays, 12:00 to 1:00 pm Women’s Discussion Group: Thursdays, 12:00 pm
Shin Buddhism
Steveston Buddhist Temple, 4360 Garry Street, Richmond
Sunday: 10:30 am
Vancouver Buddhist Temple 220 Jackson Street, Vancouver
Sunday: 10:30 am
University Hill Congregation Chapel of the Epiphany 6030 Chancellor Boulevard
Sunday: 10:30 am
United Church of Canada
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WELLNESS
Jewish
Community & Recreation There’s more to being a successful student than studying! Meeting people, seeing the city, exercising, and participating in the campus community is not only fun, it’s also a vital part of achieving a balanced lifestyle.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
How to get involved in campus life
s
How to join intramural sport leagues
s
What athletic facilities the campus offers
s
Where to explore on and off campus when you have free time
70 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Meeting people
Many international students say that making friends helps them succeed at UBC. It will require some effort to meet people when you first arrive. However, making friends can reduce the impact of cultural transition and ease you into academic life. Most Canadian students welcome the opportunity to meet new people and learn about other cultures, but you may find that you need to take the initiative. Here are some suggestions for meeting people: • Come
to orientation (see p. 7)
•A ttend
Global Lounge, GSS, and AMS events (see below)
• Join
a student club or peer program (see below)
•S ign up for an intramural sports team (see p. 72) • Become
a volunteer (see below)
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Vancouver is an ethnically and culturally diverse community, and many international students enjoy making connections with people from their home country through networks and organizations in the city. Many of the larger cultural groups and faith communities have their own cultural or community centres, such as the Italian Cultural Centre, the Chinese Cultural Centre, and the Jewish Community Centre. There is an association in the city for just about every cultural or national group.
Getting involved in campus life
I. House Community Update Find out each week what’s happening in UBC’s international community. To subscribe, visit www.students.ubc.ca/international. Simon K.Y. Lee Global Lounge Newsletter blog.students.ubc.ca/globallounge Be instantly connected to your global network at UBC. GSS Notes This weekly email newsletter provides information on events for graduate students. To subscribe, visit www.gss.ubc.ca/mailman/listinfo/notes. UBC FYI All undergraduate students receive this email newsletter highlighting events, deadlines, and opportunities just for you.
Getting involved has many benefits, including learning new skills, gaining practical experience, and contributing to the UBC community. During your time at UBC, you will hear terms such as leadership and involvement, global citizenship, sustainability, and community service learning. These words are used to describe the many opportunities students have to participate in and serve their communities. At the same time, getting involved gives you the opportunity to make new friends and work side by side with others who share your interest. For more information about on-campus volunteer and leadership opportunities, see p. 48.
AMS CLUBS & EVENTS
There are over 200 student-run clubs at UBC that cover a broad range of interests. Here are some of your options and the benefits of membership. •C ultural
clubs offer a chance to connect with students who share your background and speak your native language.
•T hrough
religious clubs, you can connect with students who share your faith.
• I n
recreational and athletic clubs, you can try a wide variety of activities, such as dance, martial arts, golf, and even fencing.
•A cademic
and departmental clubs are an excellent way to make friends in your department and meet your professors in a less formal setting.
Most clubs are listed in the online clubs directory (www.ams.ubc.ca/campus-life/clubs), but the best way to find out more is to attend the AMS Club Days in the SUB in September. In addition to social events hosted by individual clubs, there are many other opportunities to meet people. The AMS Welcome Back BBQ, for example, is an annual event held at the beginning of term. It features bands, food, and lots of people who also want to meet others.
UNDERGRADUATE SOCIETY EVENTS
If you are an undergraduate student, you’re automatically a member of your faculty’s undergraduate society. Undergraduate societies organize seminars, parties, and other programs and events for students in their faculty. Attend undergraduate society events to meet other students with similar interests and get tips on how to succeed in your studies. Visit your faculty’s main office for more information.
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COMMUNITY & RECREATION
CAMPUS NEWSLETTERS
Want to know what’s happening at UBC? Sign up for the following email newsletters:
VOLUNTEER & LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
GLOBAL LOUNGE
The Simon K.Y. Lee Global Lounge & Resource Centre serves as a home base for globally-focused UBC student clubs and organizations, currently representing membership of more than 1000 students. It is open to everyone to use. Enjoy our comfortable atmosphere, four large plasma TVs, and kitchen with FREE COFFEE! The Global Lounge also hosts events such as the GL Documentary Series, and other student lead initiatives. The space is available for drop-ins or can be booked. The Global Lounge also manages the Global Fund which provides small grants (up to $2000) to fund student-led initiatives that are interculturally and internationally focused, collaborative and sustainable. For more information, please contact the Global Lounge at: global.lounge@ubc.ca, or check out its blog, blog.students.ubc.ca/globallounge.
THE CENTRE FOR STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
The Centre for Student Involvement (CSI) is the hub to connect you to outstanding leadership, volunteer, and involvement opportunities happening at UBC. In addition to helping students discover their unique path to involvement, the CSI is the home-base and resource centre for studentdriven initiatives like Orientations, Peer Programs, and the Student Leadership Conference. The CSI offers bookable space, media stations, equipment and supplies of all kinds to support student-led initiatives. Stop by Brock Hall and discover the right involvement opportunity for you! (www.involvement.ubc.ca)
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE EVENTS
I. House hosts many social and educational events that are great opportunities to meet both Canadians and other international students. Some calendar highlights include Penticton Weekend and Christmas lunch. The best way to hear about what’s happening at I. House is to subscribe to the weekly email update (p. 11) or visit www.students. ubc.ca/international.
Athletics VARSITY SPORTS
The Thunderbirds (T-birds), UBC’s varsity athletics teams, represent the University nationally and internationally. No university in Canada has won more national championships than UBC, thanks in large part to the swim teams, which have won 18 titles over the past 12 seasons.
men’s and women’s golf, men’s Nordic skiing, and women’s volleyball. Take flight with the Thunderbirds: join the “Blue Crew” student fan club. For more information, visit www.gothunderbirds.ca.
INTRAMURALS & RECREATION
UBC REC organizes campus intramural leagues, events, sports tournaments, and a variety of instructional and outdoor programs. One of the largest intramural programs in Canada, UBC REC offers traditional sports as well as some of UBC’s most iconic experiences. Through UBC REC, you can: • r egister for health and wellness programming like
dance, yoga, Pilates, and martial arts
•p articipate
sports
• j oin
in nine different leagues and drop-in
the 140-member volunteer staff team
•g et
involved in Outdoor REC programs that include hiking day trips, mountain biking, adventure runs, kayaking, and more
•e xperience
the more than 25 events UBC REC offers throughout the year, including Day of the Longboat (September 29 and 30), Lace Up for Kids (November 22), the UBC Triathlon Duathlon (March 10), and Storm the Wall (UBC REC’s signature event March 24 to 28)
For more information on UBC REC’s schedules, programs or to find out about UBC REC volunteer opportunities, visit www.rec.ubc.ca or drop by the Student Recreation Centre.
ATHLETICS FACILITIES
Student Recreation Centre (SRC) Home to UBC REC, one of the most innovative university recreation programs in Canada. The SRC features three full-size gymnasiums, a dance studio, a martial arts dojo and the Birdcoop Fitness Centre. UBC REC provides a diverse selection of group yoga, dance, martial arts, intramural sport leagues, special events and a popular drop-in sports program. The Birdcoop features top-of-the line equipment, a climbing cave, group fitness and spinning classes. Contact: www.rec.ubc.ca or 604.822.6000 Contact: www.birdcoop.ubc.ca or 604.822.6924 The SRC is often busy, but it is open ☞ until 11:00 pm, so you can go in the evening to avoid line-ups.
Other T-bird varsity teams have been among the best in Canada the last 10 years. In 2008/09, UBC brought home national titles in men’s swimming,
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
War Memorial Gymnasium Home to the UBC Thunderbirds varsity teams, this facility was built as a memorial for World War II and is host to UBC’s annual Remembrance Day ceremony. The gymnasium is used for both varsity and intramural competitions. Contact: www.sportfacilities.ubc.ca or 604.827.4547
UBC Aquatic Centre The Aquatic Centre features Olympic-sized (50metre) indoor and outdoor swimming pools, with one to five-metre diving boards and other fitness amenities. All UBC students who pay AMS fees have free access to pool during public swim times as well as access to the weight room, sauna, and steam room during operating hours. Information on swim times, rates, lessons, first aid courses, fitness classes and facility rentals is available online. Contact: www.aquatics.ubc.ca or 604.822.4522
Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre With three full-size ice rinks and one artificial rink, this centre is host to many popular student programs: public skating, drop-in hockey, stick and puck as well as hockey leagues, skating lessons and rentals. The Thunderbird Arena is used for concerts, sporting events, and film shoots in addition to hockey programming. The facility served as host venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Contact: www.mitchellcentre.com or 604.822.6121
UBC Tennis Centre Brand new, this state-of-the-art tennis facility features eight indoor courts, four tennis bubble courts and one outdoor court. The UBC Tennis Centre is a public facility open to anyone interested in playing tennis. More information on rates, programs and leagues is available online. Contact: www.tennis.ubc.ca or 604.822.2505
Thunderbird Park & Thunderbird Stadium This dynamic venue in the heart of campus is comprised of four artificial and eight natural turf playing fields including FIFA approved soccer pitches, a full running track, baseball diamond with batting cage, and FIH approved field hockey pitch. The stadium is home to the UBC Thunderbird football, soccer, and rugby. UBC student rates are available for field rentals. Contact: www.sportfacilities.ubc.ca or 604.827.4142
Exploring Vancouver & the region
Vancouver and the surrounding areas are known for spectacular natural beauty, diverse entertainment and cultural events, festivals, and recreational opportunities. The weekly Georgia Straight newspaper (published every Thursday) is a great source of information about Vancouver events. It is free and available at various locations on campus. Some Vancouver neighbourhoods have their own free newspapers, which advertise local programs and events.
THINGS TO DO ON CAMPUS •V isit
the world-class Museum of Anthropology – free for students.
•R elax
in the Nitobe Memorial Garden behind I. House.
•G o
for a walk, run, or bike ride in Pacific Spirit Park. Go with a friend – don’t get lost!
•R elax
at one of the nearby beaches on a sunny day.
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COMMUNITY & RECREATION
Community recreation centres The City of Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation operates 24 community recreation centres that are open to all residents of the city. The Old Barn, West Point Grey, Dunbar, and Kitsilano community centres are those closest to campus. All community centres offer a wide variety of programs and facilities, such as pools, gyms, and ice rinks. Community centres are great places to meet people outside of UBC, especially if you attend programs regularly. For more information, visit www.vancouver.ca/ community_profiles/RecGuideInfo.htm.
•G o
for a swim during the free University swim times at the Aquatics Centre.
•E njoy some peace and quiet at the UBC Botanical
Gardens
PLACES TO SEE
For transit information for these destinations and more, go to www.translink.bc.ca. • Stanley
Park – Walk, bike, or rollerblade along the seawall.
• Granville Island – Enjoy tasty treats and purchase
local crafts.
• Grouse
Mountain – Ski, hike, or just take the gondola up and enjoy the view.
• Bowen
Island – Take a short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay for a perfect Saturday afternoon escape.
accommodation while travelling. Most hostels in Canada are part of Hostelling International (HI). Some HI hostels allow only members to stay; memberships are available at Travel CUTS in the SUB or University Village. Visit www.hihostels.ca for more information. Visit the world-class ski resort at Whistler with lots to do year-round. The AMS owns a lodge in Whistler that features a sauna, Jacuzzi, and game rooms. Students can stay there very inexpensively. Call 604.822.5851, email whistler@ams.ubc.ca, or visit www.ubcwhistlerlodge.com to make reservations. Hiking and camping are also very popular with British Columbians. For a list of provincial campgrounds and to make reservations, visit www.discovercamping.ca.
• Chinatown
– Explore this historic part of town and try delicious food.
• Gastown
– Wander through shops and cobblestone streets in this historic downtown area.
• Robson
Street – Shop (or just window-shop) on one of Vancouver’s liveliest streets.
• Jericho
Beach – Play volleyball or relax in the sun.
• VanDusen
Garden – Stop and smell the roses in this beautiftul oasis.
• Commercial
Drive – Enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes on a rainy day.
LEAVING THE CITY
If you want to get out of the city and you don’t have a car, the bus is the easiest mode of travel. For information on bus destinations and schedules, visit www.pacificcoach.com (Pacific Coach Lines), www.greyhound.ca (Greyhound Canada) or www.quickcoach.com (Quick Coach Lines). On the ride board in the SUB concourse, you can also find ride offers from people driving to different parts of Canada and the United States. You will be asked to share the driving and/or the cost of gas. Train service is limited and can be very expensive; for more information, visit www.viarail.ca (VIA Rail). Travel CUTS in the SUB basement can help you find inexpensive flights to many destinations. When you’re shopping for flights, consult several travel agents and travel websites to compare prices. An International Student Identity Card (ISIC), available at Travel CUTS, can get you student discounts in many countries. Youth hostels offer fun and inexpensive
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Diversity & Equity The students, staff, and faculty at UBC are multicultural and diverse. Our community consists of people of different ages, races, religions, genders, sexual orientations, ancestries, ethnicities, abilities, and socioeconomic status. This social and cultural diversity is one of UBC’s strengths, and makes UBC a great place to study and live.sources
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
How Vancouver supports the LGBQTTI community
s
What to do in instances of discrimination and harassment of any kind
75
DIVERSITY & EQUITY
s
What resources you can access to support an inclusive and accessible environment for all students
Resources at UBC
UBC is committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and accessible environment for all students. There are many groups, programs, and organizations on campus that work to achieve this aim. Access & Diversity Brock Hall 1203 Tel: 604.822.5844 Email: access.diversity@ubc.ca www.students.ubc.ca/access
Access & Diversity works with University communities to create inclusive and welcoming living and learning environments at UBC. The goal is to build educational communities where students of all genders, disabilities, racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities can thrive. Access & Diversity facilitates disability-related accommodations for students, staff, and faculty with documented disabilities, and produces alternative format materials for members of the University community with print disabilities. Prospective clients should contact a Diversity Advisor to discuss their eligibility for services. Access & Diversity provides social spaces for students with disabilities at Crane Library and social space for women students through the Women Students’ Lounge. Their work is guided by an Advisory Council, student experiences, best practices, and current research. Students interested in working with Access and Diversity can get involved in the Equity Ambassadors, a UBC Peer Program.
Allies at UBC SUB, Room 245F Email: allies.ubc@gmail.com www.alliesatubc.com
Allies is a resource group focused on engaging men in working to end violence against women and all forms of gender-based violence. While people of all gender identities and sexual orientations are allowed and encouraged to join, the group is primarily concerned with engaging men to work towards ending gender-based violence, and is therefore comprised of mostly men. Through workshops, campaigns, events fundraisers, and volunteering with other anti-oppression/feminist organizations, the members of Allies work to create a campus that is inclusive and safe for all members of our community and to empower individuals to live in such a way that does not condone or perpetuate gender based violence and oppression.
AMS Advocacy Office SUB, Room 249G Tel. 604.822.9855 Email: advocate@ams.ubc.ca www.ams.ubc.ca/advocacy
The AMS Advocacy Office provides free and confidential advice and representation for students involved in conflict with the University. The Advocacy Office deals with issues such as academic appeals, non-academic misconduct, academic dishonesty, residential tenancy or housing issues, parking disputes, library fine appeals, and requests for information under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
AMS Ombuds Office SUB Room 249F Tel: 604.822.4846 Email: assist@ams.ubc.ca www.ams.ubc.ca
The AMS Ombuds office is committed to assisting students and AMS staff by providing conflict resolution services. Some of their services include: •P roviding conflict management services to AMS clubs and constituencies undergoing internal conflicts • Receiving and investigating complaints about the Alma Mater Society • Providing conflict resolution workshops • Advising students about their options and resources
Equity Office Brock Hall 2306 Tel: 604.822.6353 Email: equity@equity.ubc.ca www.equity.ubc.ca
The Equity Office is committed to ensuring that UBC is a community in which human rights are respected and equity and diversity are embedded in all aspects of university life. The Equity Office offers education and training on human rights, employment and educational equity to the campus at large; works to prevent discrimination and harassment on campus; and provides procedures for handling complaints. Workshops and training sessions (equity.ubc.ca/education) for students, staff and faculty on issues such as discrimination and harassment, equity and diversity are offered regularly and are available on request. Continued on next page
76
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Equity Office (continued from previous page)
They also provide confidential advice, support, and assistance to UBC students, staff, and faculty who have concerns about discrimination or harassment on grounds including age, ancestry, colour, family status, marital status, place of origin, physical or mental disability, political belief, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation and criminal conviction unrelated to employment. If you have experienced discrimination and harassment on campus, have been accused of committing discrimination and harassment, or have an equity-related query, please contact an Equity Advisor for assistance. They will meet with you on a confidential basis to help evaluate your situation and explore possible solutions with you.
First Nations House of Learning 1985 West Mall Tel: 604.822.8940 www.longhouse.ubc.ca
For more information, see p. 14.
International Student Development 1783 West Mall Tel: 604.822.5021 Email: international.house@ubc.ca
International student advisors provide support, advocacy, and referral services in matters related to life as an international student, including study permits, visas, work permits, health insurance, and intercultural issues.
Office of the Ombudsperson for Students Email: ombuds.office@ubc.ca www.ombudsoffice.ubc.ca
The Office of the Ombudsperson for Students is an independent, impartial, and confidential resource to assist students in addressing and resolving concerns about unfair treatment at UBC Vancouver. Jointly funded by the AMS, GSS, and UBC, the Office reports directly to the President. The Ombudsperson is an advocate for fairness for the benefit of students and the University community as a whole. If a student needs representation or advocacy support, the Office will refer them to the appropriate service.
If you have a question or don’t know where to start with a problem, check out the Ombuds website. Positive Space Campaign Tel: 604.822.4859 Email: positive.space@ubc.ca www.positivespace.ubc.ca
This program works to make UBC more welcoming to and supportive of its lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender, transsexual, intersex, and two-spirit communities. Look for Positive Space posters around campus to find resource people trained in sexual orientation and gender identity issues.
Pride UBC SUB, Room 245C Tel: 604.822.4638 Email: prideubc@gmail.com www.prideubc.com
Pride UBC provides peer support to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and two-spirit people at UBC. In addition, this group hosts regular discussion groups and social events. Every year, Pride UBC celebrates a week-long event in February called Outweek. The Pride office is also a great place to socialize and eat lunch.
Social Justice Centre SUB, Room 245A Tel: 604.822.9612 Email: socialjusticecentre.ubc@gmail.com www.socialjusticecentre.org
The Social Justice Centre serves students interested in finding progressive solutions to societal injustices.
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DIVERSITY & EQUITY
Students will be encouraged to take an active role in dealing with their concern. If a student needs help, the Office can: •P rovide general resource information and make appropriate referrals • I dentify and explain relevant University processes and policies •W ork with students to plan strategies and explore options on how best to proceed •E mpower students to deal directly and effectively with their concerns •F acilitate discussions and use informal channels to seek resolution • I nvestigate student complaints of unfairness where all other avenues have been exhausted
Student Environment Centre SUB, Room 245B Tel: 604.822.8676 Email: enviro@ams.ubc.ca
www.studentenvironmentcentre. com Womyn’s Centre SUB, Room 245H Tel: 604.822.2163 Email: womyncentre@gmail.com womynscentre.ca
The Student Environment Centre is a resource group that brings together people from the UBC community who are concerned with or would like to learn more about the environmental problems we face today. They raise awareness of important environmental concerns through conferences and workshops, promote environmental activism, provide funding for environmentally conscious projects, and foster a supportive community of eco-conscious UBC students, faculty, and staff. The Womyn’s Centre provides a space where women can feel safe, empower one another, and work to end sexism and violence. It offers a wide variety of events and resources, including an extensive library.
Sexual orientation & gender identity In Canada, people who are attracted to others of similar gender may call themselves lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or questioning. Those with a gender identity that is different from their gender at birth may call themselves transgender, transsexual, or gender variant. LGBQTTI is an acronym used to refer collectively to these communities. (See www.positivespace.ubc.ca for a list of terminology.) Vancouver’s LGBQTTI communities are very active. Similar-sex couples are often as open about their relationships as heterosexual couples. Certain Vancouver neighbourhoods, such as the West End and Commercial Drive, are known to be particularly LGBQTTI-friendly. In Canada, rights for same-sex couples and LGBQTTI individuals have changed significantly in recent years. Since 2000, unmarried, same-sex couples who have lived together for more than a year have the same benefits and obligations as heterosexual common-law (unmarried) couples who have lived together for more than a year. Canadian same-sex couples can also legally marry in Canada, giving them all the rights and responsibilities of any married couple. In 2004, legislation that protects LGBQTTI people from hate crimes was passed. British Columbia, like the rest of Canada, also has human rights legislation that prohibits discrimination and harassment on the grounds of sexual orientation and sex (including gender identity and gender expression) in employment, services, and housing. QMunity, a Vancouver community centre that serves and supports lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual people and their allies, runs a free and confidential helpline called Prideline. Call 604.684.6869 or toll-free 1.800.566.1170, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, seven days a week. For general infor-
78
mation, call 604.684.5307, visit www.qmunity.ca, or visit Qmunity at 1170 Bute Street. QMunity offers a wide range of resources, social activities, community building, and links to other local organizations.
Human rights
Showing respect for everyone’s human rights is an important Canadian value. As a newcomer to Vancouver, you may find that you are now a member of a minority community, something to which you may not be accustomed. Knowing your rights and finding support can be very important in this kind of situation.
RESPECTFUL ENVIRONMENT STATEMENT
UBC is committed to fostering a respectful working, living and learning environment. As a UBC student you are expected to become familiar with the UBC Respectful Environment Statement and live out the community guidelines set out by the statement. The statement can be found at www.hr.ubc.ca/respectful-environment/ files/2010/09/UBC_Respectful_Environment_ Statement.pdf
DISCRIMINATION & HARASSMENT
UBC is committed to creating and fostering a learning environment free of all forms of discrimination and harassment. Students are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the UBC Policy on Discrimination and Harassment. This policy prohibits discrimination on 13 grounds: age, ancestry, colour, family status, marital status, place of origin, physical or mental disability, political belief, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or criminal conviction unrelated to employment. Discrimination and harassment on any of the 13 grounds is taken very seriously at UBC. The Equity Office and administrative heads of unit are responsible for addressing concerns under UBC’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
What is discrimination? Discrimination is treatment that imposes burdens, obligations, or disadvantages to specific individuals or groups and for which there is no bona fide and reasonable justification. Discrimination involves treating individuals and groups unfairly or differently for reasons that are unrelated to their academic or employment performance. Examples of discrimination include: • refusing
to allow a student into a class because of that person’s ethnic origin
• denying
appropriate accommodations to persons with medically certified “invisible” disabilities, because of doubt that the disability really exists
• Evaluating
students negatively because the instructor disapproves of their political beliefs or cultural perspectives
What is harassment? Harassment is comments or behaviour that is unwelcome or that has a negative impact on the person being discriminated against. Harassment can be either a single, serious incident or a pattern of related, repeated incidents. Harassment is defined by the impact of the behaviour on the person being harassed, rather than by the intent of the harasser. It is not necessary for the target of the harassment to object to the offensive behaviour to make it harassment, for the harasser should know whether or not the behaviour is welcome. Examples of harassment include: • making
racist, sexist, or homophobic jokes or remarks
• touching • making
repeated advances on a person after that person has indicated a lack of interest
• offering
rewards or compensation in exchange for sexual favours or being threatened with some sort of punishment for not complying with sexual advances
• mocking
a person’s accent, culture or religion to ridicule them
In Canada, women and men have the same rights, and no one has to tolerate any form of unwelcome or uninvited sexual advances.
3. Take action. The most efficient way to stop harassment is to confront it immediately and directly. If it is safe to do so, clearly and firmly tell the person who is harassing you to stop. Describe the way you expect to be treated. If you find that speaking to the harasser does not stop the behaviour, or if you do not want to communicate directly with the person, approach the Equity Office or your department head for help. 4. Keep records. Do not rely on your memory. Carefully record the details of the harassment as soon as it occurs. Also record any attempts to tell the person that the behaviour is unwelcome. Keep as evidence all harassing letters, gifts, emails, voice mail messages, etc., that you receive.
What should I do if I’m accused of harassment? 1. Take the accusation seriously. If someone tells you that your actions or comments are unwanted, offensive, or harassing, listen closely. Remember that people with different values or backgrounds may experience what you intend to be funny or harmless as humiliating, threatening, or insulting. Remember that your body language and tone of voice contribute to the impact of your words and actions. If you believe the allegations may be valid, you may wish to acknowledge and apologize for any discomfort or offence you may have caused. 2. Avoid retaliation. Don’t act in ways that could be seen as confronting or “getting back” at the complainant. 3. Review your rights and seek advice. Contact the Equity Office for information and advice. You may also wish to contact your AMS or GSS representative for support and assistance. Read the UBC Policy on Discrimination and Harassment.
What should I do if I’m being harassed? 1. Don’t pretend it isn’t happening. Harassment is unlikely to go away if you ignore it. In fact, harassing behaviour may increase if the harasser feels that they can get away with it.
79
DIVERSITY & EQUITY
another person in a sexual manner without that person’s consent
2. Seek advice. Talk to people who will listen carefully and offer constructive support. Speak with an advisor in the Equity Office for information, advice, and assistance in resolving concerns. If you believe you or others are in physical danger, contact the Equity Office, Campus Security, or the police.
Safety UBC is working with you to create a safer campus community. Everyone has the right to live, work, and study in a safe environment.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
How to stay safe in Vancouver
s
Who to contact during emergency or unsafe situations on campus
s
How to increase your personal safety and reduce the risk of sexual assault
s
The rules and regulations regarding alcohol and other drugs
80 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Staying Safe
In Vancouver, the most common crime is theft. To prevent theft, carry only what you need and put your valuables in a safe place. If you must carry valuables (such as your passport) with you, carry them in a secure place (e.g., in a money belt, not a purse). Avoid leaving your backpack, computer, purse, suitcase, or wallet unattended in a public place. Never open your door to a stranger or let a stranger into your home. Always keep your doors and windows locked or secured, even when you are at home or out for a short time (even in residence). Get to know your neighbours so you can ask them for help, should you ever need it. If you plan to travel, get directions before leaving. Avoid asking strangers for directions; instead, ask a bus driver or shopkeeper. After 9:00 pm, you can ask a bus driver to let you off at the street corner closest to your destination, even if it is between bus stops (non-express buses only). At the SkyTrain station, stand in the yellow safety area, which is monitored by cameras.
Campus Security provides 24-hour assistance, seven days a week. Call 604.822.2222 if you have a safety concern or security situation.
AMS SAFEWALK
SUB 249H • 604.822.2181 www.ams.ubc.ca/services For walks: SUB 100A • 604.822.5355 The AMS Safewalk program strives to proactively increase campus safety by collaborating with various relevant organizations to communicate the availability of safety resources to the campus community. In addition to safety advocacy and promotion, Safewalk offers a walking service to anyone who requests an escort from any point on the campus. You can also use this service when you are caught in the rain without an umbrella, or as a wayfinding resource if you get lost on campus at night. The service runs throughout the school year and you can book a walk by calling 604.822.5355, dropping by the office in the SUB concourse, or looking for Safewalk patrollers in bright red jackets. Visit www.ams.ubc.ca/safewalk for hours and other information.
If you go out at night, go with friends or call Safewalk (see below) if you’re on campus. If you must walk alone, know where you are going and look confident. Stay alert: using a cell phone or earphones can distract you. You don’t have to give money or help to street people or strangers. If you choose to give a little money, avoid opening your wallet in front of them. Call 911 if you have an emergency or ☞ have been the victim of a crime. If you call
Safety resources POLICE ON CAMPUS (RCMP)
2990 Wesbrook Mall The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) provides policing to the UBC campus community. In the event of an emergency, call 911. For nonemergency issues, call 604.224.1322.
CAMPUS SECURITY
2133 East Mall (next to the UBC Bookstore) www.security.ubc.ca
BLUE LIGHT PHONES
Not just for emergencies, blue light phones can be found at various locations around campus. They provide you with direct phone access to Campus Security, 24 hours a day. For safety concerns and general assistance (including directions), push the button once and Campus Security will answer your call.
CAMPUS SHUTTLES
TransLink and the Coast Mountain Bus Company provide community shuttles on campus. For a schedule and routes, visit www.trek.ubc.ca.
81
SAFETY
911 from a cell phone, you need to let the operator know your location by giving them a building address. Calls to 911 are received at a call centre in downtown Vancouver and the operators may not be familiar with the building names on campus.
Sexual assault
Sexual assault is any unwanted act of a sexual nature. It can include anything from unwanted sexual touching, to rape and sexual exploitation. People from all walks of life, all ages and genders can experience sexual assault. Most people know the person who assaulted them, sometimes a little (e.g., a first date), sometimes very well (e.g., a good friend or partner). Many people do not tell anyone of their assault, or even realize it was an assault until months or years later. In Canadian law, sexual assault happens when one person does not freely consent to the sexual activity. There is no consent if: • You
say no, or behave in a way that implies no (e.g., pushing someone away).
• You
don’t reply; you’re too drunk or stoned to know what you’re doing, or you’re sleeping/ passed out.
• The
other person lies about what they are going to do.
• The
other person manipulates, pressures, threatens, or forces you to say yes.
(usually Ketamine, Rohypnol, or GHB) to another person’s drink without the drinker’s knowledge. Commonly referred to as “date-rape drugs,” these drugs are extremely dangerous and leave people with little or no memory of what has happened to them. You should watch your drink being poured (alcoholic or not) and keep an eye on it at all times. Avoid taking drinks from people you don’t know. If you think someone may have drugged you, go to a health clinic right away – do not wash or change. You can go to the Vancouver General Hospital emergency department and ask to have the sexual assault team paged.
SUPPORT FOR SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT
If you’ve had a sexual experience either on or off campus that troubled you, you can consult one of the services listed below to discuss your options. AMS Sexual Assault Support Centre (SASC) SUB, Room 119A/B Tel: 604.827.5180 Email: sasc@ams.ubc.ca www.ams.ubc.ca/services/ sexual-assault-support-centre
If you were unable to prevent or stop an assault this does not mean you were to blame. The only person to blame for a sexual assault is the person who commits it. If you have been sexually assaulted, it is never your fault.
Equity Office Brock Hall, Room 2306 1874 East Mall Tel: 604.822.6353 equity.ubc.ca/discrimination/sex-discrimination
You can increase your personal safety and reduce risk of sexual assault by doing the following:
Campus Security 2133 East Mall Emergency: 604.822.2222 Non-emergency: 604.822.8609 www.security.ubc.ca
•P arty safely. Avoid excessive use of alcohol and/
or other drugs, which impair your judgment and leave you vulnerable in what might not seem like potentially dangerous situations. Most women who report sexual assaults knew their attacker. Watch your drink at all times to make sure no one puts harmful drugs in it. (See below for more information on date-rape drugs.)
•C ommunicate
your limits concerning sex. You have the right to say no at any point, even if you previously consented.
•W hen
you go out, go with a trusted friend. If you are going to a party or club, make an agreement with a friend to look out for one another.
•G et
the facts about sexual assault. More information about sexual assault can be found on the website of Women Against Violence Against Women, www.wavaw.ca.
DATE-RAPE DRUGS
Counselling Services Brock Hall, Room 1040 Tel: 604.822.3811 www.students.ubc.ca/livewelllearnwell International Student Development or Go Global Talk to an international student advisor or Go Global advisor (see the inside front cover for contact information) Wellness Centre Irving K Barber Learning Centre, Room 183 Tel: 604.822.4858 www.students.ubc.ca/livewelllearnwell Women Against Violence Against Women Tel: 604.255.6344 www.wavaw.ca
In Vancouver, there have been cases of people adding a tasteless, odourless, and colourless drug
82 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Alcohol & other drugs ALCOHOL
In British Columbia, the legal drinking age is 19 and it’s illegal to be served alcoholic beverages if you are younger. It is also illegal to drink and drive or to drink alcohol in public places such as streets or parks. The lobby, laundry rooms, and patios of UBC residences are considered public spaces, but the living rooms and floor lounges are not.
Although alcohol is often consumed in social settings in Canada, it is very acceptable and quite normal to drink modest amounts or abstain altogether. In fact, most UBC students do not drink to excess. Decide beforehand how much you will drink and do not let others pressure you into drinking too much.
physical and psychological health risks, such as impairing your ability to learn, concentrate, think critically, and use your basic motor skills. They can also trigger depression and irritability. All drugs are potentially lethal when combined with alcohol or prescription drugs. You have the right to refuse drugs and alcohol if they are offered to you.
JAYALAKSHMI VISWANATHAN Class of 2012 Home country: India Degree: Master of Science Specialization: Neuroscience
You can buy alcohol in provincial liquor stores and licensed beer and wine stores. Alcohol is not sold in supermarkets, convenience stores, or from vending machines.
BCID
To purchase alcohol or attend events where alcohol will be served, you may need to prove that you are 19 years or older. Instead of carrying your passport and an additional piece of identification with you, you can obtain official BC identification called a BCID card. You can get a BCID card at any driver licensing office. Bring one piece of primary and one piece of secondary identification with you. You will pay the BCID card fee ($35) and get your photo taken. Your new BCID card will be mailed to you within a few weeks. For a list of driver licensing offices, visit www.icbc.com/licensing.
TOBACCO
OTHER DRUGS
As a university student in Canada, you may encounter marijuana (pot or weed), magic mushrooms, ecstasy (E), crystal meth, LSD, cocaine, or heroin. These drugs are illegal and possession of them can carry penalties that may include jail time and render you inadmissible to Canada. Although you may hear people say some of these drugs are harmless, they pose a range of
Recent achievements: Doing well in my courses and research; constantly learning new things and adjusting to life in Canada; giving a talk about my research at a conference in Marseilles, France
83
SAFETY
In British Columbia, you must be 19 years or older to purchase cigarettes. Cigarette smoking is not permitted in any indoor and many outdoor public places in the City of Vancouver. This includes bars, lounges, pubs, bus stops, parks and beaches, etc. For more information, visit Vancouver Coastal Health, www.vch.ca/your_environment/tobacco_ reduction or call City of Vancouver Property Use at 604.873.7398.
UBC offers learning opportunities that go beyond the academic or professional. While at UBC, I have met people from more than 25 countries! I’ve had the opportunity to learn about different countries, cultures and have grown both personally and professionally. I really enjoy taking classes from different fields at UBC as well – the approach to academics itself is more problem solving and creative thinking oriented rather than strictly book learning. The fact that it is one of the most beautiful campus settings I’ve ever seen doesn’t hurt either – there’s a beach and forest on campus!
Information for Families Many international students bring their families with them when they attend UBC. Read this section for information on child care, enrolling children in school, and ways for your partner to get involved. For information on Canadian immigration requirements for your family, read the Immigration section of this handbook (p. 33). For information on enrolling your family in medical insurance, see page 59. If you have further questions, stop by International House and come see an advisor – we are here not only for students but for the families of students as well!
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
What your partner can do to get involved in the community
s
What services are available to care for your child
s
How to enroll your children in school
s
How to find help and support as a parent
84 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Activities for spouses & partners
If your partner accompanies you to UBC, they may find that getting involved in community events and activities makes the transition to life in Vancouver more enjoyable. Here are some suggested activities:
•S ign
up for ESL classes at I. House (p. 18)
•E nrol
in a course through UBC Continuing Studies (www.cstudies.ubc.ca)
•T ake
advantage of the many athletics programs and facilities on campus (p. 71)
• Check
out the activities happening at your local community centre (p. 73) or neighbourhood house (www.anhbc.org)
• If
you live in residence, get involved in residence life activities
• Consider
working or volunteering on or off campus – see page 44 for information about applying for an open work permit as a spouse or partner
• Participate
in UBC events - check the calendar here: www.events.ubc.ca
Child care UBC Child Care Services offers professional, on-campus child care, with services for infants to school-age children. There is a very high demand for child care on campus and wait-lists for some age groups can be very long. You should apply before you arrive in Vancouver. If your child is under the age of five, expect to wait six months to a year for three to five year-old care and possibly two or more years for under three year-old care.
The child’s age and time of year greatly affect the waiting time. For more information on waiting times, the type of programs offered, and how to apply, visit www.childcare.ubc.ca or call UBC Child Care Services at 604.822.5343. The Westcoast Child Care Resource Centre provides information, referrals, training and resources to families who are seeking the best care and early learning for children. They maintain a comprehensive list of all registered child care facilities in Metro Vancouver and also offer an online guide for choosing child care as well as resources and help in many languages. You can reach them at www.westcoast.org or 604.709.5661. Information about child care and other services is also available at: • I mmigrant
Services Society of BC: www.issbc.org
•M OSAIC:
www.mosaicbc.com
•P acific
Immigrant Resources Society: www.pirs.bc.ca
•S UCCESS
(United Chinese Community Enrichment Services Society): www.successbc.ca
For information about provincial standards and helpful tips on how to find child care, visit the Government of BC’s website, www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/ childcare/parents.htm.
Enrolling children in school
In Canada, the school year runs from September to June. There is a two-week break in December and a two-week break in March. Children can enter kindergarten as young as age five.
INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES
85
The Vancouver School board operates the public elementary and secondary schools in Vancouver. These schools offer elective programs in business, visual and graphic arts, choir, orchestra, physical education, drama, and languages. For more information, visit www.vsb.bc.ca. Many schools offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for their students as part of the regular curriculum. For information about these programs, contact the Immigrant Services Society of BC at 604.684.2561. If your study permit is valid for at least one year and you are enrolled at a publicly funded institution such as UBC, your minor children (18 years of age and younger) are eligible to attend elementary and secondary school as if they were Canadian residents. They will not be required to pay international student fees. You should begin the enrolment process for your children as early as possible after your arrival in Vancouver. You will need the following to enrol your child in school: • Passport •P assport
stamp or visitor record indicating the day your child entered Canada
• Copies
of the parents’ study or work permits
The following documents should be translated into English (if necessary): • Immunization • Birth
documents
certificate
•C opies
of school report cards, grades, and evaluations from the past two years
For more information, visit the Vancouver School Board website at www.vsb.bc.ca or the CIC website at www.cic.gc.ca.
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS
Caring for children far from extended family support systems can be an isolating experience. There are a number of ways to reach out and receive support as a parent. •A ttend
a class or activity at a community centre or community organization with your child and other parents.
•A ttend
a parenting support group by a community organization such as MOSAIC (www.mosaicbc.com).
•C onnect
with other parents in your area by posting notes on community bulletin boards or through online sites like Craigslist (www.vancouver.en.craigslist.ca).
•M eet other parents through activities you enjoy (such as a hiking or a book club). Single parents can access programs and resources through organizations such as the YWCA or consider becoming involved with a group such as Single Parents On Campus (SPOC). SPOC raises awareness about experiences of single parents attending UBC and facilitates lobbying efforts both on campus and within the Metro Vancouver community. Access & Diversity also provides support and information about resources for single parents, including the publication, “Guide to Resources & Supports for Parents,” which has information relevant to all parents on campus. For more information, visit www.students.ubc.ca/go/ singleparents or contact SPOC via email at spoc.ubc@gmail.com.
Parents’ rights & responsibilities
Laws about the rights and responsibilities of parents in BC and in Canada may be different from those in your home country. Be sure to read Caring for Children: Parents’ Rights and Responsibilities, a booklet published in several languages by the People’s Law School. Visit www.publiclegaled.bc.ca.
86 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Life After UBC It’s not always easy to go home! Start to prepare before you leave UBC. We want to hear from you! Stay in touch after graduation through Alumni Affairs.
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT
s
What to do before and after you return home to help ease the re-entry transition
s
How to stay connected with UBC as an alumnus
s
How to find work if you want to stay in Canada
LIFE AFTER UBC
87
Returning home
If you’re going home, you’ll probably look forward to seeing friends, family, and familiar faces. It is very common to go through a period of transition upon your return home, which is sometimes referred to as “re-entry shock.” For some people, readjusting to their home culture can be even more challenging than the initial adjustment to Canada. Fortunately, you can take steps to make your transition a purposeful one.
BEFORE YOU RETURN HOME • Write
or talk to friends about your experiences in Canada. This will help you recognize and hold onto what you have learned and how you have changed.
• Plan
for life after graduation by taking part in events and services offered by Career Services (see p. 47)
• Prepare
for your departure: say proper goodbyes and celebrate your departure with friends and colleagues. Give small gifts, write heartfelt cards, or throw a small appreciation party. This will help you cement relationships and show appreciation for their hospitality.
• Visit
your favorite places one last time. Take souvenir photos and ask yourself what you have learned here that you want to incorporate into the next part of your life. Select souvenirs, real and symbolic, that will help you and your friends stay connected to this time you spent in Canada.
• Plan
for the details of your return home, including living arrangements, finances, career, and academic plans. Imagine what it might be like to be home and start looking forward to seeing familiar faces and sights.
AFTER YOU RETURN HOME
Returning home can be a time of reunion and celebration, but also of great loneliness. Your friends’ and family’s interest in your stories from Canada may fade long before you tire of telling them. It may be difficult to explain the sights you saw and the feelings you had while abroad, even if your listeners are sympathetic.
political views. Finding people who understand your experience and share your new interests may help you feel more at home. UBC Alumni Affairs (below) is a great way to meet people in your region who have shared a UBC experience. If you feel discouraged or frustrated when you return, remember that these feelings are normal and will likely diminish as you adjust to life at home. Be patient and remember that most students reap great benefits from international study, despite the challenge of returning home. The experiences you have had abroad will be with you for a lifetime, so take time to thoughtfully integrate them into your life now. And if you do find that you have difficulty coping when you return home, consider practicing the Canadian tradition of talking to someone who can help. Your health is worth it.
UBC Alumni Affairs
Congratulations on becoming a UBC student and future alumnus! When you graduate, you join more than 280,000 other alumni who are making global citizenship the hallmark of a UBC education. The Alumni Affairs office maintains active networks in countries around the world, so you can find a UBC network waiting for you wherever you land after graduation! While at UBC you can be connected to alumni with similar interests to you through mentorship programs (www.alumni.ubc.ca/mentorship) and student focused events that connect alumni and students. As a future alumnus, you are welcome – and encouraged – to attend events in the Lower Mainland that engage our alumni community by visiting our events page - www.alumni.ubc.ca/ events. Also stay up-to-date by following us on Twitter (www.twitter.com/ubcalumni) or liking our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ubcalumni). Update your contact information, so you will be able to stay in touch. Visit www.alumni.ubc.ca for more information.
You may not notice how much you have changed until you return home and suddenly find you do not fit into your old life as easily as you had expected. You may find that your values and preferences have changed during your time in Canada. Perhaps you have become more socially outgoing, picked up new slang, or changed your
88 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
Staying in Canada
If you are interested in staying in Canada after you complete your studies, you have many options. • International
Student Development offers workshops and advising on post-graduation work permits and information sessions on permanent residence opportunities such as the Provincial Nominee Program (p. 46) and the Canadian Experience Class (p. 46).
•U BC
Career Services (p. 47) and the Hari B. Varshney Business Career Centre in the Sauder School of Business (www.sauder.ubc.ca/Careers/ For_Students) offer many services to help students find career opportunities in Canada.
Alumni Affairs sponsors many alumni events in Canadian cities that allow you to network and make new friends.
LIFE AFTER UBC
89
ACRONYMS
AMS
Alma Mater Society
ATM Automated Teller Machine BMO
Bank of Montreal
IPA International Peer Advisor ISA International Students Association or international student advisor
CIBC Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
ISIC International Student Identity Card
CIC Citizenship and Immigration Canada
LGBQTTI Lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender, two-spirit, or intersex
CIDA Canadian International Development Agency CRA Canada Revenue Agency CWL
Campus-Wide Login
CTLT Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology DFAIT Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade DRC Disability Resource Centre
LMO Labour Market Opinion LPI Language ProďŹ ciency Index MSP
Medical Services Plan
PBL problem-based learning PNP Provincial Nominee Program RA Research assistant or Residence Advisor
ELI English Language Institute
RCMP Royal Canadian Mounted Police
GP General practitioner (of medicine)
SIN Social Insurance Number
GSS Graduate Student Society HI
Hostelling International
HST
Harmonized Sales Tax
ICBC Insurance Corporation of British Columbia iMED Health insurance for new international students (first three months)
SRC Student Recreation Centre SSC
Student Service Centre
SUB
Student Union Building
TA
Teaching assistant
TACS Tax Assistance Clinics for Students TRV Temporary Resident Visa
90 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
THE BEST OF UBC A list for students, by students!
Best campus events
• Storm the Wall • Clubs Days • Day of the Longboat • SUB Movies • Grad Nooners • Job Fairs • Firstweek concert • Anything with free food • Student Leadership Conference
Best hideouts in the rain
• I. House • Aquatics Centre • Asian Centre • Irving K. Barber Learning Centre • Koerner Library • Forestry Atrium • Starbucks • Tim Hortons • Rez lounges • SUB • MASS in Buchanan D Block • Global Lounge in Marine Drive residence
Best study tips
• Make a friend in class in case you’re sick • Take excellent notes • Balance work and play • Ask for help from a teaching assistant • Keep up on your reading • Don’t procrastinate! • Be involved in discussions • Ask questions • Use The Learning Commons
Best ways to relax
• Walking in Pacific Spirit Park • Walking at Tower Beach • SUB Movies • Going for a swim • Taking a class or working out at the SRC • Sitting in the rez lounge • Visiting the Rose Garden • Biking around campus/ English Bay area • Using the steam room/ sauna/whirlpool in the Aquatics Centre • Visiting the Museum of Anthropology
Best on-campus sales
• SUB concourse fairs • Faculty book sales • The Outpost clearance sales • Department bake sales • UBC Bookstore sales • Discount bookstore in University Village
Best lunches
• The Delly • The Honour Roll • Bernoulli’s Bagels • Snack Attack • The Moon • Pacific Spirit Cafeteria • Pendulum • Koerner’s Pub • International Village
Best ways to get involved
• Centre for Student Involvement in Brock Hall • Join a club • Intramural teams • Department councils • Undergraduate societies • Orientation programs (such as Imagine UBC and Jump Start) • Volunteer for the AMS or GSS • Attend class • Get a job on campus • Volunteer at the UBC Hospital • Peer Programs
Best ways to earn cash
• Join Safewalk • Be a residence advisor • Work in a cafeteria • Become a TA • Be an intramurals referee • Do student surveys • Participate in psych experiments • Apply for Work Learn
Best places to study
• Koerner Library • Hugh Dempster Pavilion • Nitobe Memorial Garden • Irving K. Barber Learning Centre • David Lam Library • Rez carrels • Forestry Building • Woodward/IRC • Buchanan D • Asian Library
Best desserts
• UBC cinnamon buns • UBC Ponderosa cake • The Delly Nanaimo bars • Pendulum lemon squares • Blue Chip cookies • Department bake sales • Tim Hortons donuts
91
D
Index A Academic English Support 17 academic year 16 Access & Diversity 76 advisors 10, 18 alcohol 83 Alma Mater Society (AMS) 26, 48 alternative medicine 63 Alumni Affairs 3, 48, 87, 88, 89 AMS 57, 66, 71, 76 AMS/GSS Health & Dental Plan 3, 57, 61 AMS Ombuds Office 76 Aquatics Centre 73, 91 Arts, Faculty of, inside front cover assault 13, 82 assignments 20 Athletics 3, 72
B banking 50 BCID 83 BirdCoop Fitness Centre 72 blue light phones 81
C cable TV 28 Campus Security 81 Campus-Wide Login (CWL) 16 Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) 54 Canadian Experience Class 46 CareCard 60, 61 Centre for Student Involvement (CSI) 48, 72 chaplains 68 Child care 3, 85 children 3, 38, 54, 67, 84–86 CIC, See Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) 33, 41 clubs 13, 71 Commerce, Faculty of, inside front cover computer facilities 17 co-op work permit 42, 43 counselling 68, 82 cultural transition 64, 67, 71 CWL, See Campus-Wide Login (CWL) cycling 2, 30
92
disabilities 30 discrimination 75–76, 78, 82 diversity 76, 79 driver’s licence 29 driving 31 drugs 83
E Education, Faculty of, inside front cover electricity 26, 27 email 16, 76, 77, 78 employment 41, 43, 45, 47, 51, 54 English Language Institute 18 English language support 17 Enrolment Services 2, 11 Equity Office 76, 77 essay 17, 21 exams 20 exchange 16–17, 42, 57– 58, 62, See Go Global
F families 84 fees 5, 57 financial assistance 12, 51 First Nations House of Learning 77 Firstweek 8, 13 Forestry, Faculty of, inside front cover inside front cover
G Global Fund 72 Global Lounge 48, 71–72, 91 Go Global 10, inside front cover grades 21 Graduate Pathways to Success Program 12 Graduate Student Orientation 8 Graduate Student Society (GSS) 13 Graduate Studies, Faculty of, inside front cover GSS 13, 57, 61, See Graduate Student Society (GSS) GST 55
H harassment 79 health care 62–63 health insurance 57, 58
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
homesickness 24 housing 23-26 housing, off-campus 25 HST 53, 55 human rights 78
M
I
N
ICBC 21 Imagine UBC 8 iMED 56–59 immigration 33-36, 38 implied status 35 income tax 50–51, 54 Individual Tax Number (ITN) 54 Informal learning spaces 21 Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) 21 International House (I. House) 10 International Student Advisors 77 International Student Development 1, 10, 77, inside front cover International Student Recruitment, inside front cover International Students Association 13 Internet 5, 11, 24, 27 internships 43, 48
J Joint Academic Programs 10 Jump Start 7, 19
K Korea University 10
L Labour Market Opinion (LMO) 46 Labs 19 Land & Food, Faculty of, inside front cover language classes 18 Language Proficiency Index (LPI) 17 laundry 28 LEAP 20 Learning Commons 18 lectures 19 LMO, See Labour Market Opinion (LMO) LPI 17, See Language Proficiency Index (LPI)
Medical Services Plan (MSP) 56, 60-61 medicine 63 money 50 MSP, See Medical Services Plan (MSP)
NAFTA work permit 46 New Student Registration & Orientation Guide 6
O off-campus work permit 42, 43 Office of the Ombudsperson for Students 77 on-campus work 41, 51 orientation 5, 8, 12, 78
P parents 3, 85–86 parking 31 passport 34, 39 phones 6, 24, 26, 27, 81 plagiarism 22 PNP, See Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) police 21, 81 post office 6 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) 46 public transit 30
R recreation 72–73 registration 6, 16 renting 26-27 Rentsline 13, 26 residence 5, 24 Respectful Environment Statement 78 Ritsumeikan, inside front cover Royal Canadian Mounted Police 39
S
93
INDEX INDEX
safety 80, 81 Safewalk 13, 81 Sauder School of Business, See Commerce, Faculty of scholarships 3, 11, 13, 50- 51, 54 Science, Faculty of, inside front cover Service Canada 46- 47 shopping 50, 52 SIN, See Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Social Insurance Number (SIN) 46-47 Speakeasy 49, 66 sports 72 SSC, See Student Service Centre (SSC) student fees 57, See fees Student Health Service 62 Student Recreation Centre 72 Student Service Centre (SSC) 5 Student Union Building 13, 31, 90 study permit 34, 35, 39 study skills 18, 65 SUB 27, 76, 77, 78
work, off-campus 42 work, on-campus 41, 54 work permit 41, 42 Writing 098 17 Writing Centre 17
T TA, See teaching assistant (TA) taxes 55 teaching assistant (TA) 12 Tec de Monterrey, inside front cover telephone, See phones Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) 34 Tenant Survival Guide 26 Thea Koerner House 13 Thunderbird Stadium and Park 73 transit, See public transit TransLink, See public transit transportation, See public transit TREK 81 tri-mentoring programs 48 TRV, See Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) tuition 17, 41, 51, 62 tutorials 18–19 tutoring 18
U UBC Bookstore 47, 52 UBCcard 5, 16, 51 U-Pass 2, 5, 29, 30 Urgent Care Centre 62 US visa 37
V Vancouver 5, 6, 25, 27, 31, 69, 73 visitor record 34 volunteer 11–13, 40
W wellness 64–67 Wellness Centre 3, 63, 68, 69, 82
94 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
NOTES CONTENTS
95
96 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012/13
480
44
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480
or Blvd
5 km
43
Blvd
84
99
SW
Ma
rine
4th Ave
Ferguson Rd
41st Ave 480
16th Ave
43
Granville Island
480
480
99
Science World
GM Place
7
to Tsawwassen
99
Richmond
s er Fra
43
Hastings
River
SE Marine Dr
49th Ave
Queen Elizabeth Park
12th Ave
84
BC Place Stadium
Van Dusen Botanical Gardens
99
99
Downtown
1A
44 Kits Beach Vanier Park
Broadway 10th Ave
Jericho Beach
Vancouver International Airport
Driv e
Pacific Spirit Regional Park
University
44
Locarno Beach
Stanley Park
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Nanaimo St
to Delta
1A
Grandview Hwy
Broadway
1st Ave
PNE
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91A
91
1
7A
Marine Way
Marine Dr
Imperial St
Central Park
Canada Way
7
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Burnaby Lake
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River
to Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford
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7
to Port Moody, Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Mission
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Burnaby Mountain Park
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Belcarra
New Westminster
Deer Lake
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Deep Cove
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For more information, visit www.translink.bc.ca
Skytrain
84
99
43
Express Buses
ha
UBC
C
Spanish Banks Beach
Dunbar St
VANCOUVER & SUBURBS
Fraser St
to Whistler
Burrard St
North Vancouver
Knight St
Ambleside Park
Oak St
Arbutus St
1
Main St
r
Rupert St
Ma rine D
Kerr St
West Vancouver
Cambie St
Boundary Rd
Lighthouse Park
Victoria Dr
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Willingdon Ave
Grouse Mountain
Royal Oak Ave
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Granville St
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No.3 Rd
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No.6 Rd
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT DEVELOPMENT The University of British Columbia 1783 West Mall, Vancouver, BC Canada V6T 1Z2 Phone: 604.822.5021 Fax: 604.822.5099 Email: international.house@ubc.ca The official version of this handbook will be updated on the web: www.students.ubc.ca/international Fourteenth edition, August 2012
Printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper. By choosing 100% post-consumer recycled fibre instead of virgin paper for this handbook, we saved: • 42
fully grown trees
• 531
kilograms of solid waste
• 73,377 • 13
100%
litres of water
million BTU of energy
• 1,814
kilograms of greenhouse gases