This is Bohyung
Why Calgary, why the U of C?
I chose Calgary because it is home, and although I’ve lived here most of my life I felt like there was more to explore before moving on. I also really liked the Health Sciences program and what it had to offer; it was really unique and had a relatively small faculty size. The University of Calgary is also nationally recognized for its research and I was interested in contributing to that field as well.
Getting Involved
As a first year student I was overwhelmed by how many things there were to do on and off campus – from various summer research opportunities, to the hundreds of clubs and opportunities to hear great speakers; there were lots to keep students busy and interested. The key is to find which ones you like – start off by joining whichever clubs sound interesting and go from there. In terms of research, again, there are many chances to work with awesome professors on cool topics. Being unafraid to ask for more information or sending off an email or two (always remembering to be polite and courteous) shows that you are interested and pays off in the long run.
Bohyung’s Advice
Prioritize and Manage your time
Prioritize what is important to you. Study habits make a big difference; manage time effectively. No matter how many times those statements can be said, their importance is magnified during first year. Managing time = managing stress.
Take the inititive and talk to people
First year is the first chance you have to make great friendships, connections and experiences – take the initiative: go out of your comfort zone and talk to people, join clubs and stay involved.
Make your university experience
It may sound cliché but university IS what you make of it.
What makes university by far the most enriching is the influence of people that I meet. Clubs are a great way to meet interesting people and keeping in touch with friends makes a difference when classes sometimes have over 400 students. Networking is important not only in terms of preparing for the future, but for providing a strong support group. I learned a lot from peers that I met on campus and they only continue to motivate me as time goes by.
Favourites
Place to study
Law Library
Place to eat
Tim Horton’s, to wake up in the morning before that 8:00 am lecture. Choose from 4 on campus!
Research
This summer I had the opportunity to research at the University of Hong Kong. It was definitely an eye-opening experience!
Books
Too many to choose from – The Little Prince, Of Human Bondage, Pride and Prejudice...
Movies
The Shawshank Redemption is a classic favourite, and Inception was a really good movie. Both are highly recommended!
Music
I listen to a variety of music, depending on my mood.
Things about Calgary
Calgarians are fortunate to enjoy a gorgeous view of the Rocky Mountains as well as convenient skiing areas. One of my favourite places in Calgary would be Bowness Park, because it’s beautiful during the chilly autumn months and is also an excellent area to have barbeques with friends.