What is Kickstart UBC ECED?
Kickstart UBC ECED is a new student-led initiative designed to create a peer network for incoming IBPOC students within the ECED and HDLC programs. Through creating an engaged student community, Kickstart combats barriers such as a lack of knowledge and experience of institutional systems, academic expectations and living in a new environment. Join our engaged community of students through a peer mentoring program, workshops and webinars, and social events. Kickstart is supported by the Strategic Equity and Anti-Racism (StEAR) Enhancement Fund.
Hear from the Kickstart Founders
We believe that our strength comes from connections.
“By building a network of support through one-on-one buddy match-ups, webinars, workshops, and social events, we hope to create a strong, inclusive community where IBPOC students feel a sense of belonging. The inspiration for Kickstart UBC ECED stemmed from our own experiences as first-year graduate IBPOC students. Many of us were new not only to the program but also to the city or even the country. During that initial year, we encountered various challenges in finding and accessing the resources we needed. Transitioning into graduate studies is an exciting yet stressful time, and the support of a peer network is critical for managing new challenges. ”
Kickstart Founders Ji, Karen, Negar, Chatsy, and Shirina
Get Involved
Find out how you can get involved with Kickstart as a student or faculty member.
Students
Join the Buddy Program
Junior Buddies
Kickstart aims to build strong peer connections through a buddy matching and mentorship program. Recognizing that first-year students may lack the support networks they had previously, we pair incoming students (Junior Buddies) with more experienced graduate students (Senior Buddies). Buddies will be matched based on survey responses and preferred communication methods to ensure compatibility. Senior Buddies will help new students settle into graduate student life and navigate their first year. Once paired, buddies connect to discuss their goals and share experiences through regular meetings.
Senior Buddies
Experienced graduate students can volunteer to become Senior Buddies, providing guidance and support to incoming first-year students. No previous mentorship experience or expertise in the graduate program is required. Training will be provided and a certificate will be issued to recognize Senior Buddies’ commitment and dedication to the program. Find your community and join the buddy program today!
Do you have feedback on your experiences as a Junior or Senior buddy? Share your thoughts with us!
Join Social Events
Kickstart events are open to all members of the Faculty of Education. Join our group social events, workshops, and webinars to get to know your community.
Faculty Members
Share Kickstart with Students
Foster a successful and engaged learning community and share our events and buddy program with your students. Help us reach all ECED IBPOC graduate students by sharing information about the program within your department.
Share your Ideas
If you have ideas for workshops or webinars that would benefit first-year graduate students, please reach out to us. We are open to faculty members leading workshops and webinar sessions and we welcome your ideas and feedback to help us add more value to the program.
Join Social Events
Help us expand our community and join our group social events to get to know the new graduate students and let them get to know you. Joining our social events is one of the best ways for us to connect with our community.