Samantha Lee

About

	[Third Year]
Degree	[Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition, and Health]
Major	[Dietetics]
Hometown	[Hong Kong]

Communicating for Community: A Transfer Student’s Work Learn Journey 

Samantha is a third-year Dietetics student from Hong Kong who has learned that growth comes through persistence and intentionality. As a transfer student, she understands what it means to design her path with purpose. Now, as LFS Student Services Program Assistant through Work Learn, she supports students, staff, and faculty by curating communications, coordinating orientation programming, and creating content that helps students navigate their LFS journey. From orientation events to social media materials, her work reflects a strong commitment to service and attention to detail. While training to become a dietitian, she has come to appreciate how small, thoughtful contributions can help create environments where people thrive. Her Work Learn experience has shown her that clear communication, careful attention, and genuine support will shape how she approaches her future career.

Why did you choose to transfer to LFS?  

I chose to transfer to LFS specifically to pursue the Dietetics program. I completed prerequisite courses at Douglas College, Trinity Western University, and Langara College before beginning my Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition and Health at UBC in September 2022. What drew me to UBC’s program was its emphasis on evidence-based practice and integrated practicums in Dietetics. The approach aligned with my desire to serve others with both scientific rigor and a compassionate presence.  

What challenges did you face and what did you learn?  

Being in university means constantly facing applications and selection processes for various things such as part-time jobs or student leadership opportunities. Receiving repeated rejections was difficult. The effort and time spent on prerequisites, volunteering, and work experience, only to hear “no,” made it hard not to view each rejection as a reflection of my abilities. Over time, however, I began to view rejection as an opportunity to grow rather than a final verdict. It compelled me to clarify why I wanted to pursue my subject of learning, seek feedback, strengthen my skills, and build resilience. These experiences have taught me to approach opportunities with discernment, remain flexible, and stay open‑minded. 

What strategies would you recommend for adapting to university as a transfer student?  

As a transfer student, adapting to a large institution like UBC required me to be intentional about seeking out support and opportunities early on. I learned to actively use the wide range of academic and student resources available, from academic advising to peer connections, they helped me better understand academic expectations and navigate a large university environment. Beyond formal resources, I also recognized the value of extracurricular opportunities such as Work Learn, which are part-time jobs for students designed with their needs in mind and offer flexibility, mentorship, and a genuine understanding of students’ academic responsibilities. These experiences helped me feel supported, connected, and confident in my ability to succeed, while turning the size of UBC into an advantage rather than a barrier.  

What motivated you to take on the Work Learn role as LFS Student Services Program Assistant?  

I was drawn to this role by a desire to expand my professional reach beyond the clinical side of dietetics. While my academic training has prepared me to support others through food and health, this position allows me to apply those same skills active listening, clear communication, and empathetic support, in a more dynamic, collaborative environment.  

What is your favourite memory from the Work Learn role as LFS Student Services Program Assistant?  

As a student, it’s easy to view assignments as isolated tasks, but my experience working and studying simultaneously has shown me that even small contributions can have a meaningful impact. Whether I’m creating digital signage, or curating content for Instagram, each project reinforces the value of my role. Seeing my designs in real‑world settings on screens or social media reminds me that I’m contributing to major events and school initiatives. This sense of purpose, makes the experience rewarding and confirms that what I do truly matters. 

How did your Work Learn experience shape you as a student?  

Working behind the scenes on orientation, career events, and student communications has shown me how much a little extra effort helps others thrive. I have learned that “small” tasks such as creating a clear graphic or answering a student’s question promptly can have a significant impact. This experience has fostered patience and diligence, instilling in me a commitment to service that I am eager to bring to my clinical training as a dietetics student. My time in Student Services has fundamentally shifted my perspective on my future as a dietitian; I now define my learning process by a commitment to being detail-oriented, both in my academic studies and in how I share knowledge and provide care.  

What kind of career do you hope to pursue after your degree?  

I hope to become a Registered Dietitian who works at the intersection of clinical care, maternal health, and culturally safe practice. My Work Learn experience has shown me that I thrive when I can both contribute individuals directly and contribute to systems that support whole communities. Whatever setting I end up in, I want my practice to be marked by careful listening, cultural humility, and a commitment to making evidence-based nutrition feel accessible and compassionate.  

What advice would you give to students considering Work Learn?  

Approach it with care and preparation. Tailor your resume and cover letter thoughtfully to show how your unique experiences align with the role. Reflect honestly on your past experiences to identify skills you’ve developed, whether it’s communication, collaboration, perseverance, and articulate how they would serve the position. Most importantly, choose a Work Learn role that teaches you something about yourself and about the work you hope to do in the future. The learning that happens through Work Learn often shapes your career more than you expect!