Help advance research excellence by meeting student financial need
UBC Chemistry graduate students are among the brightest in the world. Ranked one of the top chemistry departments in Canada and 19th in the world (QS World University Rankings Report), UBC is the school of choice for PhD students who want to be at the forefront of research excellence.
However, many of our graduate students are struggling with the ever-increasing cost of living in Vancouver. They are faced with making difficult decisions just to cover basic needs such as food and rent.
One third-year PhD student shares: "Every day, I make unconscious compromises--like skipping meals or postponing health services--due to underlying financial stress. Because rent is so high in Vancouver, I have a roommate and my rent is still 65 to 70 per cent of my income. Some PhD students I know are on food stamps and experiencing homelessness. The stress of finances is always there; it affects every aspect of life."
This situation puts UBC’s ability to attract and retain the best graduate students at risk. For top talent with multiple offers from UBC and other programs in less expensive locations, their decision will be impacted by the high cost of living in Vancouver. For those who have chosen UBC and who aim to realize their full potential, their ability to focus on their research may be hampered by the mental stress of everyday financial pressures.
Sena Arslan, a fourth-year graduate student from Turkey, says:
As an international student, I wanted to do my doctoral studies at UBC because of its top-ranking chemistry department. I know it will lead to exciting opportunities to contribute to Canada’s strong chemical industry. My fellow PhD students and I are considered at the forefront of chemistry, yet the stipend we receive isn’t enough to cover all our basic expenses. This fund would boost not only our finances but also our motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of research excellence.
How you can help
Your gift will provide chemistry graduate students with vital funds, enabling them to focus more on research and education.
Contact
Sandra Hunt