Real student stories
Meet some of the students whose lives have been transformed by their study in BC experience.
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Miyako Ando
Japan, University of the Fraser Valley
2025 SIBC Creator Award Recipient
Miyako is a third-year Marketing student at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) and hails from Tokyo, Japan. Alongside her studies, she works with UFV’s International department, where she helps create welcoming experiences for UFV students from around the world. Miyako also leads two student clubs and hosts a local radio program, which allows her to connect with people through stories and community events.
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Guntas Kaur
India, University of British Columbia
2025 SIBC Creator Award Recipient
Guntas is a third-year Psychology student at the University of British Columbia. As a first-generation woman from India pursuing higher education abroad, studying at UBC is more than a personal achievement for her—it represents a generational breakthrough. Guntas has a keen interest in Social Psychology and likes to delve into books of the same topic. Beyond her academic pursuits, Guntas explores Vancouver through her camera lens, capturing the city’s vibrant streets, discovering cozy libraries, and enjoying beginner friendly hiking trails.
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Nico Caparas
Philippines, University of Victoria
2025 SIBC Creator Award Recipient
Nico is a fourth-year Computer Science student at the University of Victoria, and hails from Manila, Philippines. Apart from computer programming, you can find him at home cooking while jamming out to his favourite songs or at a concert singing along with the crowd. Living in a new country has been an amazing and eye-opening experience for Nico, filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable memories.
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Neha Nandakumar
India, Simon Fraser University
2024 SIBC Writer's Award Recipient
Neha is a second-year MA student at Simon Fraser University's Philosophy department. Previously, she completed an undergraduate degree in Sociology and Anthropology at Ashoka University, India. She hopes that, through her writing and her work, she helps people understand one another.
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