Today we shine our Alumni Spotlight on Ben Liao! He is an Alexander College alumnus from China, who successfully transferred to the UBC Sauder School of Business. Currently in his fourth year, majoring in Accounting, Ben reflects fondly on his transformative journey.
Initially studying biology in the UK, Ben sought a new direction and chose Alexander College for its reasonable tuition and excellent location near Metropolis at Metrotown. He describes his time at AC as amazing, emphasizing the lasting impact of his professors and the strong personal connections he formed. Ben remains engaged with the AC community, actively participating in volunteer activities introduced by his former French professor.
Reflecting on his educational experiences, Ben notes a significant difference between the UK and Canadian academic systems. He found Alexander College’s approach particularly beneficial, with consistent assessments throughout the semester rather than heavy reliance on final exams alone. The smaller class sizes at AC also allowed for more meaningful interactions with professors and classmates, making his studies even more enjoyable.
Ben advises future students to maintain strong relationships with friends and professors, who can provide invaluable mentorship during the transfer process. He specifically highlights the support he received from peers who had previously transferred to UBC, as well as the guidance from AC’s transfer club.
Returning to campus after transferring brought back warm memories for Ben, reinforcing his appreciation for Alexander College’s supportive community. Outside academics, Ben enjoys life in Vancouver, embracing the city’s walkable and bike-friendly environment, despite its rainy seasons.
His final piece of advice for international students: step out of your comfort zone. Making friends from diverse backgrounds is crucial for enhancing language skills and fully immersing yourself in a rewarding international student experience.
If you’re a current student at AC, we would love to hear our story! Contact us at social@alexandercollege.ca and you may have a chance to be featured in a future blog and video.
Alexander College acknowledges that the land on which we usually gather is the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work in this territory.
Alexander College acknowledges that the land on which we usually gather is the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work in this territory.
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