CENES Advisory Council Members celebrating CENES community achievements at the 2024 Cenies.
Applications for the 2024 – 2025 CENES Advisory Council will be closing on July 25.
With the new school year rapidly approaching, CENES is seeking six students to fill the remaining spots on the Department’s student council. This council is an amazing opportunity for student to build upon their professional development skills, learn more about the inner workings of academia, advise CENES on what they can do to better meet student’s needs while higher education is rapidly changing, and more.
For those thinking about applying, read about the experiences’ of 2023-2024 council members!
Meet Breanne Brooks
Breanne is a 4th year Arts student Majoring in History
Why did you join the council?
I joined the council because I really enjoyed all of the courses I took in the department, especially those related to Slavic studies. Being part of the council allowed me to share and explore my interests in language and Slavic culture, while also contributing to the department’s growth. It allowed me to get involved and help promote the classes and subjects I loved!
What did you get out of the experience?
Joining the council allowed me to meet a diverse group of people within the department, including different faculty members and students. I was able to collaborate with them and brainstorm ideas for promoting and enhancing the departments diverse offerings. I came out of it with an even deeper appreciation for CENES!
Why you would recommend this to other students?
It’s a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your academic interests and passions. You become directly involved in the inner workings of the department and you feel really heard and appreciated. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience!
Meet Kendyl Stark
Kendyl is a 4th year student, who is Double Majoring in International Relations and Honors German Studies.
Why did you join the council?
At the end of 2nd year I received a nomination to join the council and have since had the opportunity to provide valuable feedback to our head and faculty, address student concerns regarding scheduling, courses, and support, as well as promote our programs on campus. My goals have been to build community and advocate for the student body, especially for students pursuing interdisciplinary degrees.
What did you get out of the experience?
I get the opportunity to facilitate community engagement, promote undergraduate research opportunities, and generate interest for multilingual education pathways. Our council endeavors allow me to reach out and connect with the broader UBC community by sharing my passion, by facilitating opportunities for academic growth, and by giving others a chance to access the same amazing experiences as I had. Most importantly, I have made life long connections and friendships with my fellow council members and my peers within the CENES community.
Why you would recommend this to other students?
Joining the CENES advisory council was one of the best decisions I have ever made professionally, academically, and socially. I have learned so much from my peers, professors, and community. In the CENES advisory council, your ideas are not only welcome but are encouraged, your concerns are listened to, and you are given all the tools to be successful in your position on the council and as a student.
Meet Aleksandr Kim
Aleksandr is a 4th year Dual Degree Student in BASc Integrated Engineering, and is taking a Minor in Honours Mathematics and BA Honours History.
Why did you join the council?
Before joining the council I took Russian literature courses as my electives. Being in a unique position as a dual degree student allowed me to deliver the point of view of engineering and science students during the council at the same time of sharing insights of these courses to engineering and science students.
What did you got out of the experience?
I was able to make a meaningful contribution that sometimes had direct results. It is a great way to gain communication and advocacy skills through this council and see how you can make change as a group.
Why you would recommend this to other students?
If you want to make some changes to the UBC community, this council is for you. I want to emphasize that CENES is a very welcoming community and they provide you the space to give meaningful input during the council meetings and throughout the year.
How to apply:
If you or someone you know may be interested in applying for a position, please complete this brief online application for yourself, and/or this quick nomination form for someone else.
Applications are due by July 25, 2024 at 4:00 pm.
