Residence Academic Connections Program

 

What is the Residence Academic Connections Program? 

The Residence Academic Connections Program (RACP) connects first-year residents with upper-year residents who can offer meaningful, individualized peer mentorship throughout the term. 

Whether you’re adjusting to university-level coursework, navigating time management, or simply looking for study tips and encouragement, this program fosters an inclusive space for academic growth through peer connection.

Join the Program

Who is the program for? 

First-year or new-to-UBC students living in residence who want a little extra support, someone to check in with, or guidance on how to succeed academically at university. 

Upper-year students who have lived in residence before and want to support others by sharing their knowledge, strategies, and experience. 

Why join?

For First-Year Learning Partners

  • Get personalized support from someone who’s been in your shoes 
  • Learn study strategies and academic tips 
  • Build your confidence in navigating university life 
  • Receive a certificate of participation
  • Get gift cards for on-campus dining outlets to connect with your learning partner over lunch or a coffee

For Upper-Year Learning Partners

  • Develop leadership and communication skills 
  • Make a meaningful impact in a fellow student’s academic journey 
  • Gain resume-worthy experience 
  • Receive a certificate of participation and letter of recommendation
  • Get gift cards for on-campus dining outlets to connect with your learning partner over lunch or a coffee

How does it work?

1. Sign Up → 2. Get Matched → 3. Connect → 4. Grow Together

  1. Sign Up: Complete a quick interest form. Sign up here! 
  2. Get Matched: You’ll be paired with someone based on academic interests, goals, and preferences. 
  3. Connect: Start chatting! Meet virtually or in person—whatever works best for you both. 
  4. Grow Together: Stay in touch over the term, check in regularly, and make the most of this connection. 

What it is / What it’s not

✅ What it is: It’s peer connection, encouragement, and informal guidance from someone who’s been there.

🚫 What it’s not: It’s not tutoring. It’s not about grades. It’s not formal advising.

By The Numbers – RACP’s Impact

Participants in 2025 Winter Term 1:

270 students
180 first-year partners
90 upper-year partners
135 unique mentorship matches

Testimonials

“Meeting with my mentee made me feel more connected to our community. Because I had been in their shoes once, I was glad that I was able to mentor them with the experience I have now.”
— Alice Xie, Upper-Year Learning Partner, Faculty of Applied Sciences  

“Being a Learning Partner in the Residence Academic Connections Program has been one of the most meaningful parts of my UBCO experience. I’ve had the chance to connect with first-year students, support their academic transition, and share strategies that helped me succeed.”
— Harsh Patel, Faculty of Science 

“They told us about [the Residence Academic Connections Program] at housing orientation, and I needed help… so I registered myself. I’m discovering new resources, and my learning partner is very helpful with this too. I was stressed about my course load, but with the support and resources provided by the university, I feel much better.”
— Alexandra Perdikomatis, First-Year Mentee, Faculty of Arts 

FAQs

Who can join the program?

Anyone living in UBCO residence can join!

Is this like tutoring or academic advising?

Not at all. RACP is about peer connection and informal support. While program planning or academics might come up, your learning partner is more like a friendly, experienced student who can help you navigate university life—not a tutor or advisor.

What kind of things do we talk about?

Anything that helps the transition to University! Topics could include anything related to your program of study, planning your academic journey, career aspirations, work-integrated learning opportunities, time management, study tips, or just finding campus resources. It’s flexible and based entirely on what you need.

How much time does it take?

We recommend checking in with your match about every 2–3 weeks, either in person or virtually. Each meet-up can be as short as 30 minutes — it’s designed to be low time commitment but high impact.

What if I’m nervous about connecting with someone new?

That’s completely normal — and you’re not alone! Many students feel unsure at first, but most find that the program helps build confidence and ease the transition to university. We also offer check-ins and support throughout the term to help you feel comfortable and supported every step of the way.

A Message From The Coordinator

“Creating the Residence Academic Connections Program has been about more than mentorship—it’s been about reshaping how we define success. When students learn to lift each other up, they build a culture of collaboration that lasts far beyond residence life. 

The hope is that this mentorship cycle continues to grow—mentees today becoming mentors tomorrow—creating a ripple effect of shared learning and empowerment across residence communities. 

Looking ahead, the Residence Academic Connections Program aims to keep expanding its reach, making peer academic support a natural and celebrated part of residence life at UBC Okanagan.” 

— Samaira Talwar, Residence Learning Initiatives Coordinator

Have questions?

We’re here to help! Contact the Residence Learning Initiatives Coordinator at samaira.talwar@ubc.ca.

Let’s build a strong academic community—one connection at a time.

Join the Program