BBA (Broad-based Admissions) Reading
Volunteer broad-based admissions readers are critical to the undergraduate admission process and in helping to shape our community of students on campus.
What are broad-based admissions, and how does the process work?
In 2012, UBC introduced a broad-based admissions process to applicants of direct-entry undergraduate program, requiring applicants to answer five to seven “Personal Profile” questions in addition to providing secondary school marks. The questions give applicants the opportunity to demonstrate self-reflection through their learning, challenges, experiences, and goals.
Knowing more about prospective students through the use of a personal profile in the application process helps identify those who will flourish at UBC, not only because of high grades but because of the experiences and ambition they bring with them.
Readers will review and score personal profiles of applicants who come from all walks of life. The score given by the reader will be used in conjunction with an applicant’s academic average to determine the applicant’s admissibility to UBC.
Why are readers needed?
A student’s personal profile is a mandatory part of their application to UBC, and the sooner a student’s profile is evaluated, the earlier UBC is able to extend an offer of admission. More readers = earlier offers of admission!
What kind of commitment is required?
Readers are asked to participate as follows:
- Complete a personal profile reader training session. Returning readers are asked to complete a refresher training session.
- Complete regular weekly reading and scoring so that admission decisions can be provided to applicants in a timely manner.
- Score personal profiles in a manner that is consistent, free from bias, and equitable.
The average reader may spend up to 1-2 hours per week beginning in mid-November, but the commitment is flexible—evaluate as many or as few profiles per week as your schedule allows.
Why become a volunteer BBA reader?
In appreciation for their time and effort, readers will be entered into weekly and monthly draws. Additionally, faculty members can claim their reading as university service hours.
And of course, reading personal profiles can be a hugely rewarding experience. We asked returning BBA reader Anthony Dodds, Student Recruiter-Advisor, why he volunteers:
Student Recruiter Advisor Anthony Dodds.
What is the most rewarding part of being a BBA reader for you personally?
Getting to know the applicants on a deeper level after meeting many of them earlier in the year. As a Student Recruiter-Advisor I meet many applicants in the fall and try to get them excited about applying to UBC. A big part of that early discussion is the personal profile, and both students and their parents are keen to share the accomplishments of the soon-to-be high school graduate. Reading the profiles helps me feel connected to the applicants and their families, building a closeness that pays off at our spring events for admitted students, during course advising in the summer, and on move in day in September.
What has been the biggest surprise or learning experience for you that you’ve had as a BBA reader?
Seeing the calibre of students we are drawing to UBC’s Okanagan campus. Reading these profiles is a reminder that our applicants are not just strong academically, but they are also looking for a community to be active in. Knowing we have a group of students coming in that are keen to do more with their time at university inspires me to do my best to give these young adults the opportunities promised at UBC.
What would you say to a peer who isn’t sure if becoming a BBA reader is worth the investment of time?
Look at becoming a BBA Reader as a professional development opportunity. Being a Reader is a great way to learn more about UBC’s admissions process, to pick up some time management tips, and to get to know the type of student UBC’s Okanagan campus is attracting. Furthermore, you get to be a part of a micro-community of likeminded staff who are also keen to give back to the institution in a way beyond their own job descriptions.
When are BBA readers needed?
Readers are required to undergo a brief online training session in October, with the profile reading beginning mid-November.
How do I sign up?
To sign up as a volunteer, please contact Diane Dyrdal at diane.dyrdal@ubc.ca.
Please encourage all of your staff to contribute to this important process.
