Meet Winnona Wu, a 2023 alumna of the UBC Vancouver Summer Program! She shares her favourite memories from VSP, what she loved about Vancouver, highlights from her classes, and her top advice for future students on how to make the most of their UBC VSP experience.

Winnona Wu and her VSP friends relaxing and having lunch at the UBC MacInnes Field.

Why did you choose to participate in the UBC Vancouver Summer Program?

1. UBC Campus: A Perfect Blend of Nature, History, and Vibrancy

UBC’s sprawling campus is a harmonious mix of natural beauty, rich history, and endless conveniences—making it ideal for both study and life. From the serene Rose Garden and the Japanese-style garden (Nitobe Memorial Garden) to the historic ancient library, working farms, lively clubs/bars, and even the infamous Wreck Beach, there’s always something to explore.

As a fitness enthusiast and sports junkie, I especially appreciate Body Energy Club for keeping me fueled with energy supplements and healthy refreshments—absolute lifesavers during long study sessions and workouts!

2. Diverse Student Community: A Global Melting Pot

The student body is incredibly diverse, with people from different majors, grades, and even universities. This creates a unique opportunity to exchange cultural perspectives, share fun life experiences, and discuss future career or academic plans. Every conversation feels like a mini-adventure!

3. Vancouver’s Unbeatable Outdoor Lifestyle

Beyond campus, Vancouver’s natural wonders and activities are endless. Whether it’s hiking up Grouse Mountain, picnicking at Queen Elizabeth Park, cycling through Stanley Park, kayaking, or just soaking in the city’s laid-back coastal vibe—there’s always an adventure waiting.

Winnona and her VSP friends taking a group picture together in Vancouver with a beautiful view of the sunset.

What is your most meaningful memory participating in VSP?

Sobered Up with Friends in UBC Fountain: Getting completely wasted at a UBC school club (The Pit) one night, only to be lovingly taken care of by the amazing friends I met through VSP until I sobered up. We sang, danced, and even played in the school’s fountain. We shared our pasts, values, and beliefs, envisioning our futures—who we’d become, who we’d meet. We opened up about our uncertainties, the confusion that comes with the unknown, yet still held onto hope and optimism. Those deep conversations brought us closer in such a short time, turning strangers into something much more.

What was your biggest surprise during VSP?

The connections I made went far beyond just sharing moments during VSP—they turned into lasting friendships, far deeper and longer-lasting than I ever expected. The positivity, inspiration, and joy from those bonds still influence my life today. Looking back, it all feels like serendipity—like every laugh, every conversation, every adventure happened at just the right time, in just the right way.

If you could describe your exchange experience in three words, what would they be?

Ecstatic, healing, and grateful.

How was it like meeting new friends during VSP? Are you and your friends still in touch?

Unlike the large lecture halls back in college, class A (BUS A JUNE 2023 VSP course package) was a tight-knit community of just 12 students—small enough for us to truly connect in such a short time. Some came from similar backgrounds as mine, while others opened my eyes to entirely new perspectives. Yet, what united us was this shared eagerness to bond and exchange stories. Every time we got together, the conversations flowed endlessly, as if we’d known each other for years.

This connection didn’t fade after the program. Over Easter, I visited John (a fellow VSP 2023 student) in Singapore with my siblings. In May, I reunited with Bill and Vincent (fellow VSP 2023 classmates and friends) for a dinner catch-up. When Julia (a UBC Sauder 2023 VSP Assistant) came to Hong Kong for her exchange, we made sure to explore the city’s vibrant scene together. Even now, we keep the friendship alive through social media, cheering each other on and wishing one another success in all our future endeavors. It’s amazing how a brief time together could turn into something so lasting.

How did being in the program help you grow?

1. Embracing Cultural Diversity with Respect and Openness

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of being inclusive and showing genuine respect for different cultures. A simple but meaningful example is how we approach dietary habits—whether it’s vegetarianism, halal food preferences, or other cultural dietary restrictions. Instead of viewing differences as strange or inconvenient, I’ve made a conscious effort to understand and accommodate them without judgment.

This mindset extends beyond food to all aspects of cultural diversity. By actively listening, asking thoughtful questions, and celebrating what makes each culture unique, I’ve found that these small acts of respect can bridge gaps and foster deeper connections. After all, true inclusivity starts with an open heart and a willingness to learn from one another.

2. Breaking Cultural Barriers Through Proactive Sharing

Growing up in an Eastern culture that values silence and humility as virtues, I was taught that being a “good student” meant listening more than speaking. But over time, I chose to step beyond these traditional boundaries—actively sharing ideas, initiating conversations, and forging connections, even when it felt uncomfortable or went against cultural expectations.

While this approach isn’t always appreciated in my native context, the personal growth I’ve gained has been undeniable. By pushing myself to communicate more openly, I’ve not only expanded my perspectives but also built deeper, more meaningful relationships. It’s been a rewarding journey of breaking free from old patterns and discovering the power of authentic exchange.

Winnona Wu with her VSP classmates in their lecture room at UBC Sauder School of Business, showcasing the iconic Canadian coffee chain “Tim Hortons.”

What would be your advice for future VSP students?

1. Lean Into Discomfort

  • Push yourself to speak up in class, even if it feels unnatural. Your perspective matters.
  • Say “yes” to spontaneous adventures—hiking at sunrise, karaoke nights, or trying strange foods. These often become core memories.

2. Cultural Curiosity > Assumptions

  • Ask questions about traditions you don’t understand (“What’s the story behind this holiday?”). People love sharing their culture.
  • Notice small things: How classmates greet each other, what they bring for lunch, or their study habits.

3. Invest in People

  • Swap social media early. A casual “Let’s grab bubble tea” can turn into a lifelong friendship.
  • Plan reunions early.

4. Document Relentlessly

  • Take photos of mundane moments (study sessions, bus rides). You’ll miss these later.
  • Keep a journal—write down inside jokes, cultural shocks, and personal growth realizations.
  • Final Tip: The program ends, but the connections don’t. Nurture them like you would a plant—regular check-ins, occasional sunshine (memes count), and lots of patience across time zones.