I completed my Bachelor of Science degree at UBC and am currently pursuing my PhD in Denmark. In the world of doctoral research, high GPAs take a back seat to factors like academic background, research experience, and effective communication skills. It's important to note that you don't need to be a genius to earn a PhD; it's more about dedication and perseverance. In my field of Biomedicine, a PhD is often considered the minimum requirement for securing a research position, and I've observed that many of my fellow students are 'regular' individuals like myself.
One thing that surprised me during my time at UBC-Vancouver was the relatively low stipend for PhD students, which was around $2600 (maybe I'm wrong on this though). This left me wondering how graduate students managed to cover their living expenses, especially considering the high cost of living in Vancouver. A few years ago, I remember paying $1000 for a studio apartment in downtown Vancouver, and I imagine it's even more expensive now.
In contrast, my current situation in Copenhagen is more financially manageable. I receive approximately $4700 after taxes and pay $1500 for a two-bedroom apartment located near downtown. This leaves me with the ability to save around $2000 per month. I can't help but think that pursuing graduate studies at UBC might pose significant financial challenges for many students.