Carina Brongers is an Admissions Advisor (AA) in Undergraduate Admissions. She works on the International Team evaluating applications for admission to UBC from students who have studied outside Canada. Being an AA combines two of her passions: higher education and internationalization. Carina loves learning about educational systems around the world and how they compare to the school systems in BC. She says that by “understanding the differences in educational systems, this allows us to fairly assess our international applicants and ensure that we are admitting the most qualified students to UBC.”
Where have your recent travels taken you?
I traveled to the Galapagos Islands in December. The islands are located about 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador and are probably best known for having inspired Charles Darwin to develop his Theory of Evolution after his visit to the islands in 1835. I have wanted to visit the Galapagos since I first learned about them in elementary school and heard about the diversity of wildlife endemic to the islands. Birds with blue feet? Giant 100 year-old tortoises? Yes, please!
What were some of your favourite moments during your trip?
The snorkeling was incredible – especially snorkeling with some very playful sea lions which was an experience I will never forget. We also snorkeled with sea turtles, manta rays and sharks (yes, sharks!). The different landscapes (from black volcanic rock to beautiful white sand beaches to prickly-pear cactus forests) were stunning. The wildlife seems fearless (apparently due to lack of natural predators) and curious, and finding myself up-close and personal with the famous blue-footed boobies, land and marine iguanas, and sea lions lying around on town benches was amazing!
What was your favourite meal?
Definitely the ceviche – it had a special Ecuadorian twist as it was served with a side of popcorn that you sprinkle on top crouton-style! Delicious!
Lastly, any advice you want to give for someone wanting to travel to the Galapagos?
Bring plenty of biodegradable sunscreen (the equatorial sun is strong!), good water shoes for wet landings, and an underwater camera to capture those snorkeling experiences. And be prepared to be blown away – it’s a magical place!
Jordan is an Enrolment Services Coordinator with Student Support and Advising. He loves to travel and to hear about people’s adventures. If you would like to be featured in “Jet-setting with Jordan” please comment below or contact him at Jordan.lee@ubc.ca.
Coby Thurmeier
January 17, 2017 — 2:11 pm
Carina, it looks like you had an amazing adventure! Very cool 🙂