The Distillation Blog

  1. Closeup of hands holding a map

    Developing Your Career: It All Begins in Year One

    First year is where you get your first glimpse of the possibilities that a science degree can bring.Keep these 5 points in mind as you consider your specialization options:The specialization you pursue will have an impact on your professional and personal development. It will influence the… read more

  2. Three students smiling

    Struggling to Find the Motivation?

    Learn how to get motivated so you can reach your academic and degree goals.What is Motivation?Motivation is what helps you do something and, ultimately, to achieve your goals. It is what drives you to study for that exam or to go to the gym. There are many different reasons for why you act the way… read more

  3. Headshot of Dr. Santa Ono smiling at a student

    What Employers Are Looking For

    One of the key strengths of a Bachelor's Degree is the breadth of your skills and experience.Your degree is designed, in part, to prepare you for jobs that don't yet exist and so that you can be adaptable as the job market shifts with new technologies and changes. It isn't all about acquiring… read more

  4. 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

  5.  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

  6. Students studying on laptops at a desk.

    First Year Required Courses & Specialization Admission Pre-requisites

    There is a difference between specialization admission pre-requisites and required first-year courses for a specialization.As a Science first year student, you'll be told to check out the UBC Calendar to see which courses you’ll be required to take to meet a specialization’s requirements, and… read more

  7. Birds-eye view of students studying at a desk

    Making a Final Exam Study Plan, Step by Step

    Planning is a reflective process. We all know we should do it, but where do we begin?1. Figure out your goalsThis needs to be more than just “I want to ace all of my courses.” Be specific, and be realistic. Consider how much time and commitment each goal will require.2. Decide on a systemHow far do… read more

  8. 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

  9. A room full of students

    Vantage Students Entering UBC Science

    Vantage students can use this handy guide to select courses for UBC Science.1. Review the courses that you successfully completed in your year at Vantage, as pre-requisites for second year.2. Look at your specialization* (“major”) on the UBC Calendar.Visit the UBC Calendar, scroll down, and find… read more

  10. Fall leaves on campus

    Getting Ready for September

    As a new student in UBC Science, you’ve successfully registered for your courses for the upcoming school year…but now what?1. Get Your Student ID Card (UBCcard)Your UBC Student ID card (UBCcard) is essential for your years at UBC. You can use it for:Getting your Compass Card on campusMandatory ID… read more

Musqueam First Nation land acknowledegement

UBC Science acknowledges that the UBC Point Grey campus is situated on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm.

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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