The Faculty of Dentistry recognizes Indigenous students’ unique experiences, perspectives, and skills. We care deeply about providing an enriching educational experience through respecting and celebrating diverse perspectives in our program.
Your place in our program
We recognize that a sense of belonging and shared identity is crucial for students to thrive in both the academic and dental communities. Accordingly, our various resources directed towards Indigenous support allow you to seek guidance, assistance, and support if needed. We are currently in the process of creating an Indigenous Mentorship Program, and our Indigenous Counsellor, Renée Avitan (she/her/hers), is also available if needed.
Entering the dental profession may seem daunting, but we would like to assure you that we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive space for our students. This is to say, your presence is valued in the Faculty of Dentistry.
Unique perspectives
Our experiences impact our lives in every way – from our behaviour to our identity. But, they also influence our perspectives. UBC’s Faculty of Dentistry acknowledges the unique, and varying, perspectives of Indigenous students, and how they may shape your educational experience.
We encourage you to share your thoughts, perspective, and experiences, if you are comfortable, so we can work together towards building a stronger community for you, current, and future students.
Listening to, learning from, and emphasizing the belonging of Indigenous students is an essential aspect of maintaining an inclusive experience in the Faculty of Dentistry. Our community understands the power you, as a potential oral healthcare student, have to create change. So, we want to provide you with the tools to do just that
Connect with us
To get in touch with Enrolment Services for Indigenous students, please contact es.indigenous@ubc.ca.
For any non-admissions and non-academic questions or concerns, please contact studentservices@dentistry.ubc.ca. For admissions-related questions please contact admissions@dentistry.ubc.ca.
View resources for Indigenous students in the Faculty of Dentistry.
Additional resources
Indigenous UBC Portal: This page provides information and resources for Indigenous students, including program advising information.
Indigenous Students at UBC: Learn more about the Indigenous student community at UBC here.
UBC Indigenous Handbook: If you are looking for information about our campus, community, plans for the future, or common questions regarding the application process, this handbook is for you!
First Nations House Of Learning: The First Nations House of Learning (FNHL) is based in the First Nations Longhouse, located at 1985 West Mall. Indigenous students can find notable initiatives and resources such as:
- Student meals
- Tutoring sessions (based on demand)
- Accredited counsellors
- Student health nurse (weekly)
- Student financial advisor (weekly)
Vancouver Indigenous Student Collegia (VISC): the VSIC is open to any Indigenous student who identifies as Indigenous, providing an opportunity to engage with peers and upper-year students, ask questions, learn about resources, and enjoy social events together. First-year Indigenous students are encouraged to participate in UBC Collegia, while Indigenous students at all levels are welcome at šxʷta:təχʷəm Collegium, located at the UBC First Nations Longhouse.
Indigenous Strategic Plan: UBC is taking steps to contribute to the advancement of Indigenous peoples’ human rights. This plan sets out a series of eight goals and 43 actions the university will collectively undertake. The plan was created with input from more than 2,500 students, faculty, and staff across our campuses – both Indigenous and non-Indigenous – as well as from Indigenous community partners.