Events and Workshops
Ignite: March 6-17
Career development opportunities for international students
Ignite is a two-week career development series for international students. This program will help students navigate the Canadian job market and identify workplace expectations while developing intercultural competencies. Students will build job-search, interview, and networking skills. The series will also provide students with information on pathways to permanent residency and the legal requirements to work in Canada, as well as the opportunity to connect with alumni and speakers.
Schedule at a glance
How to find work on campus
March 6, 12-1 pm | Virtual with UBCV
This event will provide an overview of the various work and research opportunities available to international students at UBC and insights on how to look and apply for these on-campus jobs. Programs covered will include Work Learn, Work Study, and Undergraduate Research awards.
Permanent Residency workshop
March 6, 6:30-8:30 pm | COMMS 201
Join us for the pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) workshop to learn how you can remain in Canada after graduation. Hear from a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant about the various options available for remaining permanently in Canada and get more insight into the PR process and learn how to improve your immigration profile.
Intercultural workshop
March 7, 4 – 6 pm | EME 1151
Join the Intercultural Development Program (IDP) in a facilitated discussion on cultural identity and belonging across differences in the workplace.
Career options and career planning for international graduate students
March 9, 12:30-1:30 pm | Virtual with UBCV
International students in Masters and PhD programs have distinct goals for navigating their careers and preparing for life after graduation. This interactive session will cover common questions and strategies for international students at the graduate level.
Keynote speaker event: Dr. Ainsley Carry
March 9, 4–6:30 pm | UNC Ballroom
Be inspired by Dr. Ainsley Carry, our Vice-President Students, who is a passionate advocate for students. You’ll learn about Ainsley’s extensive experience as he focuses on providing students at UBC with an unmatched learning environment. Students will have the chance to ask any questions they may have.
Telling your story: Translate your knowledge, skills, and experiences into a Canadian context
Mar 13, 3-4 pm | Virtual with UBCV
Learn what employers look for in a Canadian resume and cover letter from a career educator. We will cover how to tailor applications in a way that showcases your unique skills, strengths, and experiences as an international student.
Post-Graduation Work Permit workshop
March 13, 6:30–8:30 pm | COMMS 201
Are you a student who is about to complete their program and you’re hoping to remain in Canada and work full-time? Join our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to learn what options are available to you. You may be eligible to remain in Canada and work full-time with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Your brand matters
March 14, 4–6:30 pm | Nechako Gathering Room
You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Join us and learn why your personal brand is a critical piece of your job hunt while building critical skills around how you can influence the impression you make on others. This workshop will be hosted in collaboration with Royal Bank of Canada.
Using labour market information in career decision making
March 16, 10-11 am | Virtual with UBCV
Learn where to access labour market information to know what industries are growing, what skills are in demand, and to learn about different roles that leverage the knowledge and skills developed throughout your degree.
Alumni Panel
March 16, 4:30–7 pm | UNC Ballroom
Anxious about your career? Looking to find a mentor who has similar experiences? Join us for a discussion with our inspiring alumni who will share their experiences before, during and after graduating from UBC.
Looking for events run by industry? Check out the home page of the Student & Alumni Job Board for announcements about upcoming events.
Tips for navigating virtual events/fairs
- Use first name and last initial to protect your privacy when using platforms like Zoom
- Keep yourself muted unless speaking
- Activating the video is a personal choice – if you choose not to go live you can use a profile picture as an option
- If you enter using video, test your lighting and background. Lights should be in front of the computer for optimal viewing. Going live almost feels like allowing someone into your home so feel free to download a generic background to use or opt for a plain wall behind you
- Craft a brief 30-second introduction to use when asked. It is also important to craft a brief statement of how you are doing personally – many people are asking about your well-being before jumping into the professional questions and you do not want to be caught off guard
- Craft or curate the questions you want to ask prior to the event so you ensure you make efficient use of the time you have with the professional
LinkedIn Learning
Looking for a self-guided professional development opportunity? Take advantage of LinkedIn Learning, available to you through the Okanagan Regional Library. Gain access to thousands of online courses and tutorials, taught by industry experts across all professional areas! All you need is a library card.
Sign up for an Okanagan Regional Library e-card in order to access LinkedIn Learning
Collaborate with Careers
Are you a UBCO Student Union or Club? Interested in gaining access to external speakers and organizations? Collaborate with the Career Development team today and receive extra support for your group’s initiatives!
Use the following guidebook to connect with the Career Development team and understand how we can collaborate today.
