Drawn to UBCO Okanagan for its close-knit community, commitment to Indigeneity, and beautiful natural setting, Simar Sandhu has found a supportive and engaging academic environment. Studying History with a minor in Anthropology, she has pursued interdisciplinary interests in the history of science and medicine while actively engaging in research and faculty mentorship.
Why did you choose to study at UBC Okanagan?
I chose UBCO for its close-knit community. The community at this campus is so inviting and is set within the prettiest landscape. The Okanagan offers such a unique experience due to its vibrant nature. UBCO places importance to its ties with Indigeneity and creates a welcoming environment for its faculty and students. Moreover, the smaller class sizes ensure an intimate learning environment where I have felt supported and heard. The professors are approachable which creates a real sense of connection between faculty and students. The campus’ emphasis on experiential learning is motivating, whereas the Okanagan Valley offers so many great outdoor activities which attracted me to create a great balance between work and play.
What program are you in and what specifically attracted you to it?
I am in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences where my major is History and my minor is Anthropology. I have always had an interest in wanting to learn more about the factors that influence the world we currently live in. I am specifically interested in the history of science and medicine as it reveals our understanding of how the world of science has evolved and how past discoveries continue to shape modern life. I am fascinated by how ideas once considered revolutionary or even controversial have paved the way for today’s knowledge.
Studying this field allows me to see the human stories behind scientific breakthroughs and their impact on people. I am currently pursuing my Honors in history where I examine the shift of traditional midwifery, led predominantly by women, and how childbirth came to be medicalized and shifted to hospital settings. This topic’s intersection with sociological theories such as gender, power dynamics and professionalization, along with the overarching theme of medicine and reproduction, has deepened my understanding of how social structures influence medical practices. I additionally work as a URA for Dr. Margaret Carlyle where we analyze historical reproductive technologies and its impact on those who used them.
What opportunities has the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences provided you with?
Our wonderful faculty here has provided me with many opportunities that have helped my academic and personal growth. This includes a diverse set of courses with supportive professors and events through course unions that are a part of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. I have additionally benefited from a strong sense of community and mentorship. I have had the opportunity to work closely with some of the leading academics in their field which has deepened my interest in fields such as Anthropology and Sociology, among others.
I am grateful to be enrolled in the Honours program in the History department where I am supervised by Dr. Margaret Carlyle who oversees my thesis and guides me endlessly. I also had the opportunity to plan an event for the History and Sociology department – a Students vs. Professors Trivia Night which would not have been accomplished without the support of the faculty. Additionally, the Dean, Dr. Tomášková, who has been the greatest representative of the faculty, has supported me in our faculty immensely.
Have any specific faculty members or classes helped to shape your academic journey?
FASS has some of the best faculty members who have shaped my journey at UBCO. Dr. Margaret Carlyle, who I have had the pleasure of working with in various ways, has helped create and grow my interest in the history of science and medicine. Without her guidance, I would have not been able to pursue an Honours distinction. Her work ethic, personality and incredible care for her students inspire me every day.
Another person who changed my life and way of thinking on this campus is the late Dr. Shannon Ward. Her passion for linguistic anthropology and work ethic encouraged me to pursue a minor in Anthropology and reflect on my own linguistic background. She left an inexplicable impact on me that makes me want to be a better student and continue growing as a person. She touched everyone’s lives and has played a valuable part in mine. I continue to be inspired by her charisma and vibrant personality both as a person and as an academic. Dr. Colin Osmond has also played a role in shaping my academic journey as his enthusiasm for and commitment to decolonialization has made me more mindful of Canada’s Indigenous history.
What has been the best surprise about UBCO?
A pleasant surprise about UBCO has been how vibrant and active the student life is, despite the campus being smaller. The campus offers a wide variety of events through its clubs and community initiatives. This has helped me get involved, explore new interests, build strong connections, and create a sense of belonging and community that makes the campus feel like home.
What advice would you give your younger self about the university experience?
I always recommend going to office hours of your instructors! I wish I had started going to office hours earlier in my first few years, but I was too scared! However, I have come to really appreciate making connections with my professors through the designated time they set aside for their students.
What type of career are you considering after graduation?
I want to continue researching in interdisciplinary projects as they allow me to explore complex intersections in history between science and society. At the same time I want to pursue a career in Law or Education where I can apply these skills in meaningful and practical ways, whether that is advocating for informed policy or teaching others to approach problems from multiple perspectives. Primarily, I hope to get into the IGS program at UBCO to continue working on research that is multi-disciplinary to deepen my analytical skills so I can work on projects that bridge academic inquiry with our current world.
What are some of your future goals?
My future goal is to return to UBCO as an IGS student to continue working with Dr. Carlyle whose mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my academic interest and research direction. Returning to UBCO also means rejoining a community where I feel supported and inspired – an environment that will help me grow both as a scholar and individual. On a personal level, I really want to pick up crocheting! I want to be able to crotchet handmade things as gifts!
What do you do for fun outside of the classroom (special talents, hobbies, etc.)?
I often do pottery painting at Work of Art Pottery Painting in Kelowna for gifting purposes. It’s not only is a great way to relieve stress, but it also allows me to be creative. I also like to read mystery books, like the works of Agatha Christie, for pleasure, beyond the reading assigned for coursework!
Who have you learned the most from (professionally or personally)?
My mom has been my biggest teacher all throughout my life. She has taught me to be the person I am today, not through what she has said, but through the way she lives life. From her, I learned the importance of kindness and resilience. She taught me the importance of showing up for people and the value of hard work. Watching her handle challenges with strength and compassion has shaped how I approach my own life. Her support and guidance continue to influence the choices I make.