First-Year Focus (FYF) is designed to help you connect with fellow students formally and informally–both in class and during social and extracurricular activities.
Starting from 2023-24, FYF Program will be offered with 2 streams: FYF-C (Computation) and FYF-L (Life science). First Year Focus students take a common set of courses (with a focus on either Computation or Life Science) with the same class of about 180 UBC Science first-year students—your community. You will also take an in-person FYF Seminar course once a week to develop your skills and further connect with your community. You select the remaining courses (usually four to five, in-person or online) based on your interests and to meet the requirements for promotion to second year in UBC Science. You’ll immerse yourself in the computation or life science while gaining the flexibility to pursue almost everything UBC Science has to offer as you progress in your degree, such as computer science, the earth sciences, the life sciences, the physical sciences, and so on.
Meet other first-year students and form connections
I like the cohort that comes with it, the gateway space that FYF provides, and the backbone it provides for transition into university through positive study techniques.
- Take your core first-year classes with the same cohort of students – work in consistent, small teams.
- Attend regular events with fellow FYF students to make connecting with friends and peers easier.
- Like to study in a group? Enjoy your own, dedicated study space at the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre for you to connect with other FYF students.
- Connect with designated mentors who are upper-year students at Faculty of Science to help you navigate your first year.
I met many people during FYF who I've managed to become good friends with and I am able to consult them should I need any help with anything in the classes that we have shared.
FYF allows an easier transition to university and provides and opportunity to meet people with similar interests, taking the same course.
Photo: Student Panel at SCIE 100, 2022W
Increase scheduling flexibility with different combinations of online and in-person classes
- FYF offers a mix of online and in-person classes as you prefer. If fit your needs, you are able to select courses that are mainly offered online, which will significantly cut down on your commute time.
If I were trying to convince new students to apply to join the program, I'd really just mention the decreased commute time (and more sleep), eased transition from high-school, dedicated study space, and help with establishing connections with peers.
Online learning gave me the benefit of staying and home and not needing to do two-hour transits everyday.
Build a foundation in computation and life sciences and help solve complex problems
FYF is a great opportunity to delve into the computational sciences and helps a smoother transition into the rigors of university.
- Tackle the problems in computation and life sciences, and explore your career options in a supportive environment.
- Attend specialized workshops, guest lectures and activities designed to teach you scientific thinking skills, such as problem solving, communication, and critical thinking that are key skills that employers are looking for.
- Connect with a wide range of professional networks and opportunities in the industries and fields for individuals with relevant backgrounds in computation and life sciences, including urban planning, finance, engineering, mineral exploration, business and marketing, health sciences, and more.
I would recommend the program to future students because it helps you connect with like-minded students who are as passionate about computational sciences as you are.
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Student Poster Portfolios from SCIE 100, 2022W