The Distillation Blog

  1. The back of a man's head as he walks in a city.

    Cover Letter Looking Empty? Here’s How to Strengthen It

    Preparing a cover letter when you have zero or irrelevant experience.A cover letter is an important part of a job application. Writing one can be challenging, especially if your work experience isn’t obviously or directly relevant to the position you’re applying to, or if you don’t have much… read more

  2. Student looking out of a window

    Finding Balance With the Wellness Wheel

    About the Wellness WheelYour university journey brings a lot of opportunities for growth. From uncovering new interests to making friends or even moving to a different city, there are a lot of exciting moments. At the same time, you juggle a lot as a student. Whether it be intense coursework, lab… read more

  3. A closeup of a pencil on a scantrol

    Didn't Do So Hot on Your Midterm?

    Don't give up – this is a perfect opportunity to learn from your mistakes, see why you didn’t do as well as you had hoped, and find strategies to improve your scores in the future.Tips for the Next MidtermCreate a study schedule ahead of time and study early.Organize all the material into… read more

  4. Two students taking notes about the tree in front of them

    NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards 2025-26

    2026 Info Sessions  - There are multiple NSERC Undergraduate Research Award info sessions happening in October 2025. Black student researchers can choose to attend an info session in the Black Student Space. All students: Learn more and register now.This page will be updated soon with specific… read more

  5. Two people researching in a lab

    Summer 2025 Work Learn International Undergraduate Research Awards

    2026 Info Sessions  - There are multiple Work Learn International Undergraduate Research Award info sessions happening in October 2025. Black student researchers can choose to attend an info session in the Black Student Space. All students: Learn more and register now.This page will be updated… read more

  6. Three students in a row studying.

    What Do I Do If I Miss Classes?

    It may feel like there’s nothing you can do and you’ve just forfeited big chunks of your grades, but keep in mind that you have options.1. Address Your HealthFirst of all, make sure that you’re addressing any health concerns. If you don’t have a family doctor in Vancouver, or if you have been… read more

  7. Birds-eye view of students sitting a table on their laptops.

    Tips for Starting a Successful Study Group

    When you practice and teach others course material, it is easier to remember the information and recall it later on.You’ve likely heard that study groups are a good idea, but do you know why they are? There are a few keys to making study groups productive and efficient (and not just… read more

  8. A row of students studying at a long table.

    Study Tips from Science Peer Academic Coaches (SPAC)

    Science Peer Academic Coaches (SPAC) help you discover which study methods work best for you.General Study TipsAfter you study a particular section, do the corresponding problem set questions immediately.While going through the material, create questions in your head that might be asked on the exam… read more

  9. A calculator sits on a textbook

    Studying for Mathematics & Physics Courses

    Mathematics and Physics may be difficult for many students, but with the right strategies, you can succeed.1. Figure out early whether to rely on lecture notes, textbook, or another resource.Some instructors write very methodical notes, presenting step-by-step explanations and evidence for key… read more

  10. Student playing guitar on campus

    Simple Habits That Make a Difference

    The start of a new academic year is exciting! You may be meeting new people, attending social events, learning more about your passions, or simply enjoying the campus environment. Whatever makes up your days, it’s the perfect time to pause and think about how you want to move through the term.While… read more

Musqueam First Nation land acknowledegement

We honour xwməθkwəy̓ əm (Musqueam) on whose ancestral, unceded territory UBC Vancouver is situated. UBC Science is committed to building meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples so we can advance Reconciliation and ensure traditional ways of knowing enrich our teaching and research.

Learn more: Musqueam First Nation

Faculty of Science

Office of the Dean, Earth Sciences Building
2178–2207 Main Mall
Vancouver, BC Canada
V6T 1Z4
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