Getting Involved in Student Life at the UBC-ELI

By: Izabela Leszko

The UBC English Language Institute (UBC-ELI) not only offers students the opportunity to study English with experienced ESL teachers inside the classroom but also the chance to partake in an enriching social cultural program outside of the classroom. All UBC-ELI activities are led by undergraduate students called “Cultural Assistants” and this gives UBC-ELI students the opportunity to connect with a wider UBC student community.

Students have the opportunity to participate in an assortment of clubs and events and to explore the popular tourist attractions surrounding Vancouver by going on day and weekend trips to places such as Whistler, Victoria, and Seattle. By joining some of our popular clubs, such as the food club, film club, soccer club, and many more, students can expand on their existing interests and discover new ones! Students can also enjoy visiting Vancouver’s local attractions including the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Planetarium, and Vancouver’s many shopping districts. Many students play intramural sports and take part in outdoor activities, like hiking, volleyball, and snowboarding, along with their classmates.

Through this program, students can also participate in special events including our International Night and the Welcome and Farewell parties. During International Night undergraduate and ELI students can present something unique about their native country and culture – traditional costumes, special food, arts, crafts, music, and dance. This event gives students the chance to discover the world and learn more about themselves and each other.

Allowing students to practice their conversational English in a social setting while learning about different cultures and making new friends is precisely that which makes our sociocultural program so successful. This is what sets our programs apart and makes us so highly sought after as an English language school.