This week we’ll be checking in with Tai Williams, an incoming Engineering student from Shawnigan Lake School on Vancouver Island, who has graciously agreed to share with us her thoughts on UBC and (tentative) plans for the future.
HCUBC: Why did you pick UBC? Why engineering?
Tai: I knew that UBC was a very good school, not only because of its rankings, but also because I have several friends that have attended. It also helped that it was close to home. I chose engineering because I wanted to be taking courses that would challenge me intellectually. I love sciences and math and solving problems so it seemed like a logical step for me.
HCUBC: How are you adjusting to residence life?
Tai: Luckily, I’ve had some experience being away from home so I haven’t had too much of a hard time moving into residence!
HCUBC: What really stood out for you on Imagine Day?
Tai: I think that the most interesting things for me on Imagine day were learning how diverse my first year class is and how many people there are. Coming from a very small school community made it all the more surprising. I was also really impressed with how everyone was very welcoming from the first moment they met you, especially the group leaders.
HCUBC: What is one way that UBC has surprised you?
Tai: One of the things that has really surprised me so far at UBC is how many things are always going on. It truly seems that there are activities always going on.
HCUBC: So we all know that the Engineering students have huge workloads. How are you holding up?
Tai: I’m doing pretty well so far. I’m very lucky because I had credits from my AP courses I took in high school so I have a lighter course load than some of my friends, but I’m definitely keeping busy with homework!
HCUBC: What sort of clubs or campus events have piqued your interest? Have you gotten involved with any?
Tai: I love musical theatre, so I’ve already joined the UBC Musical Theatre Troupe, however, I’m also very interested in the BC Children’s Hospital Advocates and Engineers Without Borders. I hope to join those clubs as well, provided my schedule isn’t too crazy!
HCUBC: In a world where anything is possible, what would be your dream career?
Tai: I have two dream careers. One would definitely be to be a musical theatre performer and the other is probably a pediatric surgeon.
HCUBC: Do you have a Plan B?
Tai: I do. My plan B is probably to be a BioChemical Engineer or a teacher.
HCUBC: What is your passion?
Tai: I love music (in any way), theatre, field hockey, crafts, teaching, and helping people, especially children!
HCUBC: What would you say is the best way to relax on campus? Aside from sleeping, of course!
Tai: I really like to read, or get together with some friends and play some music!
HCUBC: On a tough day, what helps you pull through?
Tai: On my toughest days, I always call my family. They somehow have this magic way of knowing how to make me feel better!
HCUBC: If you were to rate your first few weeks at UBC, what would you give them? I say 10,000 steps out of 10,000, because scurrying between classes sure gets that daily goal done in no time!
Tai: Definitely 10,000/ 10,000
HCUBC: Any final thoughts for all those fellow first-years out there?
Tai: Good luck! I hope that we can all make this the best first year ever!
Photo credit: Tai Williams