ASSIST!

Hello everyone,

I hope you've all had a great week. It's been wonderfully sunny here in Vancouver and so I've had the opportunity to go to the beach and do lots of fun things. That's one thing I love about Vancouver - the fact that there are so many wonderful sports and activities one can take part in for free, or very cheap. Sports and healthy living are definitely a big part of ASSIST this year and so we have planned hikes, beach outings, an introduction to UBC REC, and more, for you to take part in. I'm excited!

Another thing I'm very excited about, is being a Squad Leader for GALA. GALA is a 3-day free orientation for new international students, happening just after ASSIST. It is a fabulous way to get to know many other international students, and meet some really cool student leaders and professors. There are also some workshops planned, regarding immigration issues, how to find a job on campus, LPI preparation, and more. It's also become somewhat of a tradition to show an outdoor movie during GALA (something I have fond memories of). And finally, what many consider to be the highlight of GALA, is the Boat Cruise that is traditionally held every year! It's very exciting. You can find out more at http://www.students.ubc.ca/newtoubc/orientations.cfm?page=international , as well as register for this orientation. It is really important for you to attend GALA - you will be presented with some information very useful to you as an international student - as well have lots of fun and meet new friends!

I know you all must be curious about what ASSIST will be like, so here are a few activities that are currently being planned out as part of the social program: A gathering where you will all get to know each other. A trip to get your U-Cards and U-Passes. An info-session on how to get around Vancouver. A workshop on student services. Grocery shopping trips. A trip to open bank accounts. A walking, interactive tour of Vancouver! A visit to a festival. A beach picnic. And those are all happening during the first week, with many other activities planned for later!

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to e-mail me. Also, be sure to check out the blog (http://assist07.blogspot.com) from time to time. I am very excited for ASSIST in August and I can't wait to meet you!

Hope you have a lovely week,

Sonja

Sonja Babovic
Administrative Assistant
ASSIST - The SMART START to Life at UBC
Deadline for applications is July 15th
http://www.students.ubc.ca/go/assist
http://assist07.blogspot.com/


International House
1783 West Mall
Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z1
Tel: +1 604-822-5021
Fax: +1 604-822-5099