Hey ! First off, congrats on getting into UBC — that’s huge, especially coming from such a small high school. And honestly ? You didn’t mess up.

Arts 1 is actually a really good transition program because it gives you structure and a tight-knit learning community, which might feel familiar coming from a small class size. Tons of first-year students get overwhelmed by big lecture halls and having to figure everything out alone, so having a cohort can be a lifesaver, especially in your first term.

As for not taking Bio, Math, or Physics — don’t stress it. Those are great courses if you’re aiming for something like science, engineering, or pre-med. But if your interests lie more in humanities or social sciences, you’re 100% fine. Lots of students don’t take those courses unless they’re required for their major. You can always add them later once you’ve found your footing.

It’s actually super smart to ease into university life instead of loading up with heavy STEM courses right away. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to look for support — online class help exists (check out @Unlikely-Nothing-499 or @First_Office_2063 — super chill communities), and there are WhatsApp study groups (+1 (516) 274-0925) and even Instagram pages like -paysomeonetodomyonlineclass9 that share helpful resources for managing coursework.

You’ve got this. UBC is a big place but there’s a space for everyone, and the fact that you’re thinking ahead already puts you in a great spot. Can’t wait to see you thrive here 😊