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 assessment to determine the applicant’s admissibility to UBC.
Why are readers needed?
Having more readers results in earlier offers of admission. 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.
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.
When are BBA readers needed?
Readers are required to undergo a brief online training session before the profile reading begins in mid-November.
How do I sign up?
To sign up as a volunteer, please contact Diane Dyrdal at diane.dyrdal@ubc.ca or Halyna Petryshyn at halyna.petryshyn@ubc.ca.
Please encourage all of your staff to contribute to this important process.
