Five reasons why these international BCom students chose UBC Sauder

For Mark Anthony Trillo, a fourth-year UBC BCom student from the Philippines, and Parthivi Koganti, a second-year UBC BCom student who grew up in India, Japan and Singapore, the decision to study at UBC Sauder was about much more than a business education. It was about global perspective, growth, community, and finding a place that aligned with their values. Ultimately, they chose a global launch pad for their careers and a place they were excited to call home.

For Koganti, who moved to Vancouver from Singapore, the decision was also supported by her family, who saw the opportunity as both academically and personally enriching. 

“UBC Sauder felt like a place full of opportunities for Parthivi to learn, grow and thrive. Between the School’s strong global reputation, the diversity of opportunities on campus and in Vancouver, Canada’s inclusive culture, and our eldest daughter’s positive experience there, we felt confident she would have an enriching experience,” Koganti's father, Krishna Koganti, shared. 

Here are five reasons these international students chose UBC Sauder.
 

1. A West Coast culture that values diversity, balance and purpose 

 Values alignment was a defining factor for Koganti’s decision. She was drawn to Canada's balanced lifestyle, which pairs ambition with wellbeing. “People work hard, but they also go skiing for the weekend. There’s value in life outside of academics and career.”  

Trillo echoes that sentiment, noting how Vancouver’s natural environment–from ocean views to the towering trees of Pacific Spirit Park– influenced his decision. Both students describe UBC Sauder as a place that supports their ideal lifestyle. 

Koganti also was drawn to how sustainability and social responsibility are embedded in the learning environment – from classroom discussions to initiatives such as the Centre for Climate and Business Solutions.  

2. A welcoming international community 

  Clubs, case competitions, residence life, and initiatives like Jump Start and SPARK were key factors in both students’ decisions, offering early opportunities to build meaningful connections. “You’re not restricted to one community,” Koganti says. “I’m part of my classroom, my clubs, my workplace, residence — it’s layered with lots of diverse perspectives. And I love that.” Having already lived in Japan and India before spending 11 years in Singapore, Koganti was familiar with navigating transitions, and she says UBC Sauder’s welcoming environment stood out.  

For Trillo, this sense of support was a key reason he chose the school. “I received tailored international student support that made my study permit process much smoother,” recalls Trillo. “They even hosted a smaller orientation for students who arrived late. I never felt like I had to figure it out alone.”  

Equally important to Koganti was the diversity she sees across campus. “Everyone has a different background, and the environment really encourages collaboration. People come from all over the world to study here, bringing their unique perspective to the classroom. It makes learning here exciting.” 

3. A global alumni network that opens doors 

The strength of UBC Sauder’s global community of over 52,000 alumni also influenced Trillo’s decision.

"UBC Sauder is a pipeline of support. Alumni, professors and upper year students are very approachable, in a way that’s unique to UBC Sauder.” 

Now specializing in Accounting, he credits these connections with accelerating his career development. "Everywhere I reach out, whether through LinkedIn or the many networking events, there's a UBC Sauder alum willing to help. There’s real pride in being part of this community.” 

Koganti was similarly inspired by the success of alumni. “Seeing where UBC Sauder graduates are today made me excited about the possibilities,” she says. “When I accepted my offer, I knew I was joining a community of business leaders that I share similar values with, and that I can learn from.” 

4. Global opportunities that expand perspective 

  UBC Sauder’s international opportunities appealed to Koganti, including Global Exchange and Global Supply Chain program opportunities in cities like Copenhagen, Shanghai and Amsterdam. 

“Even though coming to Canada already feels like an exchange, I love that I could still go abroad and expand my global perspective even further,” says Koganti. “The global partnerships that UBC Sauder has with international business schools show how well connected it is.” 

5. Real-world learning that prepares students for global careers 

UBC Sauder's international reputation and career-focused programs played a key role in both students’ decisions. Trillo was drawn to the School's competitive admissions and strong industry connections across Canada, impressed by the quality of the faculty and diversity of courses offered. 

"When you're studying abroad, you want to know the name carries weight," he says. "As one of the top business schools in the country, having UBC Sauder on your resume opens doors." 

 He also saw UBC Sauder as a launchpad for career success, particularly given its strong ties to the major accounting firms and the broader business community. 

 He also saw UBC Sauder as a launchpad for career success, particularly given its strong ties to the major accounting firms and the broader business community. 

Koganti, now specializing in Marketing, values the emphasis on real-world application rather than memorization. “I'm constantly applying what I learn.” She says, pointing to case competitions, clubs and co-op as key draws. 

For both students, resources like the Hari B. Varshney Business Career Centre and networking events to build connections with employers and alumni also provided confidence in navigating internships and career planning in a new country.  
 

A launchpad for global careers 

For students seeking a business education that combines global reputation, real-world experience, and a supportive community, UBC Sauder offers much more than a degree.