Over ten semesters at UNBC, I’ve worn many hats: student representative for the Faculty of Environment, senator at UNBC Senate, and volunteer with organizations like PGPIRG, ELC, and UNAC. Each role gave me a front-row seat to how decisions are made—and sometimes, how they’re not.
Learning the System from the Inside
Governance at UNBC is a mix of good intentions and policy gaps. In the Faculty of Environment, we debated scholarship criteria beyond GPA, pushing for more inclusive factors like nationality, gender, and representation. While change is slow, I saw real progress.
Senate, however, often felt like a formality. Here’s what most students don’t know: the real discussions happen in faculty committees. Senate frequently just approves what’s already been decided. If you want to push for change, start with your faculty—that’s where the magic happens.
There’s even confusion about student roles themselves. Am I a “senator” or just a “student rep”? The title sparked debate in meetings, and I sometimes felt this ambiguity was used to downplay student participation. Regardless of the label, I made sure to say what needed to be said.
Making Change Through Volunteer Work
Outside governance, my volunteer work revealed both problems and solutions on campus:
PGPIRG: We ran a confidential survey exploring equity, diversity, and inclusion that revealed serious misconduct, especially harassment. Current policies are vague, and students often face multiple rounds of questioning before cases are elevated. While the Residence Manager for Residence and Restorative Relations offers 24/7 support, we clearly need more comprehensive resources.
ELC (Eco Living Community): We addressed food security and wildlife conservation while improving student wellbeing through programs like Climate Cooking. Returning and new students should definitely check it out this semester.
UNAC: I helped keep conversations about Sustainable Development Goals alive on campus.
These experiences taught me that volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about actively shaping the campus we want.
Your Turn to Get Attached
Here’s my pitch: get attached to change, to governance, and to the idea that your voice matters.
Consider roles like Director of EDI at NBCGSS or NUGSS, join PGPIRG’s board, or get involved with the Women’s Centre. Yes, these are volunteer positions, but they’re also opportunities to grow, lead, and strengthen your resume.
The university won’t open doors unless you knock. Don’t wait for opportunities—create them. Step up, speak out, and stay attached to the change you want to see.
All the best to those who follow.
