The international student experience at UBC Sauder: Embracing Vancouver’s unique culture
Every year, many students move across the world to attend the UBC Sauder School of Business in Vancouver, Canada. While moving to a new country does not come without challenges, it’s full of new connections, new surroundings and opportunities. We asked three international students to share how their experiences have shaped their perspectives of UBC Sauder and Vancouver at large.
Connecting to Vancouver’s diverse culture and cultivating a global mindset
Madhav Sharma moved from India to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) at UBC Sauder. Despite initial concerns about feeling homesick, Vancouver's rich cultural diversity helped ease his transition.
"Not only was Canada more affordable than the U.S., but as someone who’s very close to my roots and home country, knowing there’s a huge Indian community in Vancouver made me even more excited to move here," Sharma shares.
Vancouver's diverse food, community events and cultural festivals allowed Sharma to maintain a connection to his heritage while embracing a new global perspective.
"There's a duality to my connection to culture since I moved to Vancouver,” says Sharma. “In addition to my Indian heritage, there’s a new connection to Vancouver’s diverse culture that has allowed me to look through a global lens.”
At UBC Sauder, students benefit from a cross-cultural education where they are exposed to a myriad of diverse cultures and perspectives.
"I’ve met people from all over the world at UBC Sauder,” says Sharma. “This unique cultural exchange has given me so much exposure and insight into other cultures, and opened up my perspectives."
Sharma’s advice to international folks considering UBC Sauder? "Get in the habit of thinking big. UBC Sauder is the perfect place to cultivate future leaders who will create a meaningful impact. My education here has helped me develop a growth mindset, a belief in collective growth and deep community values. Meet as many new people as you can during your time here."
Forging new connections
Irene Wang, who moved from Taiwan to UBC Sauder, was drawn by the school's prestigious reputation. Leaving her family to pursue a UBC Master of Business Administration (MBA) abroad was a significant investment, so attending a globally recognized institution was crucial in her decision.
"Before moving to Vancouver, I met several UBC Sauder alumni while traveling in Europe. Their kindness and positive experiences solidified my decision to take the leap," recalls Wang. “I was not expecting a master's degree program to have folks who are so friendly with so many planned activities. My cohort was very supportive and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting new people on campus and cultivating friendships on a personal and professional level.”
Irene’s most memorable experience so far has been her experience with UBC Sauder's Global Immersion Experience (GIE) program, which took her to Singapore for two weeks. There, she had the opportunity to meet new classmates and consulted on a project for a local business while taking classes.
"It was an unforgettable experience and a highlight of my MBA journey,” says Wang. “I made new connections and had the opportunity to connect with people from diverse cultures. The program challenged my thinking and newfound skills in a fresh learning environment.”
Flourishing in the West Coast lifestyle
Michelle Siaril made the move from Indonesia to Vancouver for UBC Sauder’s MBA program in July of 2023, her first time in North America. Having lived in Australia previously, she was nervous and excited to pursue her MBA in an entirely new continent. For Siaril, the city's stunning backdrop of mountains and ocean was a significant draw.
"Vancouver's access to nature, diverse food, emphasis on health and wellness, and the sense of community I found within my MBA cohort at UBC Sauder made the move incredibly rewarding," says Siaril. “I felt like people truly cared for and supported each other.”
Vancouver's blend of serene lakes, majestic mountains, accessible beaches and vibrant city life provides the perfect balance for students seeking adventure and a breath of fresh air. The city’s calmness and natural surroundings offer students a retreat, especially during busy exam periods.
Learning in a community focused on building a better world
UBC Sauder aims to shape the next generation of business leaders who set the highest standards for ethical and effective business practices by encouraging creative thinking, innovation and curiosity.
“I chose UBC Sauder not only because of its reputation as an excellent business school and pioneer in sustainability, but because I wanted to go beyond learning about profit and contribute something positive to society and the world,” explains Siaril.
The three students are thriving in the vibrant community and relationships they found at UBC Sauder and are inspired by the school’s dedication to cultivating leaders who are committed to making a positive impact in the world.
“UBC Sauder offers you a home away from home,” says Sharma. “It’s a holistic institution that values rigour and excellence, and assists you in more ways than you can imagine.”
Although relocating to a new country for education can be daunting, Sharma, Wang, and Siaril embraced Vancouver's West Coast charm, diverse cultural environment and strong industry connections through the BCom and MBA programs, and are proud to call Vancouver a second home.