Student Life

Your graduate experience is enriched by the vibrant community and myriad opportunities available at the Department and UBC.

MTRL Graduate Student Association (GSA)

The MTRL graduate student community extends beyond classrooms and laboratories. The MTRL Graduate Student Association (GSA) is a student-led organization committed to enriching your graduate experience. Past events organized by the GSA include:

Social Events

  • Welcome orientation.
  • Weekly coffee sessions.
  • Outdoor excursions such as hiking,
    skiing trips.

Professional Development

  • Career workshops and seminars.
  • Networking events with professionals.

Academic Support

  • Peer mentorship programs.
  • Study groups, collaborative projects.

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Professional Development and Well-Being

At UBC, we recognize that your success as a graduate student extends beyond academics. We are committed to supporting your professional growth and personal well-being throughout your journey.

Professional Development

UBC offers a comprehensive range of professional development resources designed to help you acquire the skills and experience needed for your future career, whether in academia, industry, or beyond.

  • Graduate Pathways to Success (GPS): A program offering workshops, seminars, and resources covering topics such as strategies to academic success, research skills, career building, academic communication, and leadership development.
  • Mitacs Training: Offers training programs in project management, entrepreneurship, communication, and more, enhancing your professional skill set.
  • Teaching Development: The Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology (CTLT) provides opportunities to develop your teaching skills through workshops and certificate programs.
  • Experiential Learning Hub: Find opportunities such as mentoring program, TA training, and more.

Well-Being Support

Your mental and physical well-being are essential to your success. UBC provides a variety of services and resources to support your health. More information on this topic can be found on the  G+PS Health, Wellbeing, and Safety site as well as the Graduate Student Society portal.

  • Counseling Services: Confidential counseling for personal, academic, or career-related concerns.
  • UBC Wellness Centre: Offers peer support and resources on topics like mental health, nutrition, and sexual health.
  • Recreation Facilities: Access to gyms, fitness classes, intramural sports, and outdoor recreation programs to keep you active and engaged.

Housing Support

UBC Student Housing and G+PS Housing Portal provide information about graduate student housing on campus. The Graduate + Postdoctoral Studies has also been working with several units on campus to address housing affordability for the graduate community at UBC. Guided by the Campus 2050 vision, a redevelopment and expansion of a current housing site is expected to commence in Fall 2026 with a new facility expected to start in 2028.

  • GSS Housing Aids: There are several financial aids available, through GSS or the provincial support program.

International Student Support

For more information and support related to being an international student at UBC, please visit the International Student Advising Office.