Jared Knott is a third-year student at UBC pursuing a major specialization in Anthropology. This past year, Jared let ASA know that he was selected as a new goalie for the UBC Thunderbirds Varsity Hockey Team. Read on to learn more about Jared and how he manages to pursue athletics while maintaining focus on his degree program.
What program/specialization are you studying at UBC and how did you come to choose it?
I am currently an Anthropology major, with future aspirations to attend law school. I chose Anthropology because I am fascinated by the subject and it often intersects with First Nations studies, something that I am very passionate about.
What was it like transitioning to life at UBC as an Aboriginal student?
My transition to UBC was extremely smooth. After 2 years at Douglas College, the Aboriginal Academic Advising made it easy for me to get accustomed to UBC. While making the move from a college to a large university like UBC may seem daunting, taking advantage of the resources the ASA has to offer will make the transition much easier for new students.
How are you finding balancing school and athletics?
As a first year athlete at UBC it was a major transition for me after previous years of studies without athletics. After walking on to the varsity hockey team nearly 3 years since last playing competitive hockey, I was overwhelmed with excitement to officially become a Thunderbird! Initially, I found balancing athletics and academics to be daunting, however as is life for any student, time management allowed me to make a successful transition. Once I organized a schedule and spoke with our fantastic academic advisors I was able to make a schedule that worked both with my academic and educational goals and have not seen any decline in my academics since becoming a varsity hockey player. UBC athletics is an amazing experience for any individual who has the opportunity and can entirely enhance your university experience!
Do you have any advice for Aboriginal Students at UBC?
My advice for Aboriginal students, and all students in general, is to immerse yourself in everything the University has to offer. Utilize resources, participate in events on campus and enjoy everything we are fortunate enough to experience at our beautiful school.
Where on campus is ‘home’ for you?
While I spend a majority of my time on campus in the Student Lounge at the First Nation Longhouse or the Rose Garden when the weather cooperates, I feel at home everywhere on campus. Everyone is friendly and welcoming throughout UBC and I never feel out of place when at school. For me, I always feel a strong sense of unity and companionship on campus and strongly feel that the University of British Columbia is a second home for me.
ASA Tip: Cheer on the Thunderbirds at their next game. Check out the schedule here.
