Erin Co



Erin Co is a student activist (studying international economics) and a recent resident of the UNA. 

Each candidate was asked four questions about their connections to, and engagements within, the UNA. I provide the questions and candidates answers below. Rather than asking them about their political platform (we will hear a lot about that throughout the election) I asked them to reflect on the more personal aspects of their lives at UBC in the UNA community.

Describe how you are involved in the life of the UNA community.

As someone who has been proactively engaged in my community through involvements in student government and holding executive positions at various clubs, I am passionate about broadening this reach for more people by creating a Community for All. I've previously (and currently) have advocated for a Skytrain-to-UBC alongside UBC's Campus and Community Planning Transit Team for over 2 years now, and look forward to bringing the UNA's perspective into the discussion and pushing for development FOR our members. Additionally, I want to ensure that our community is inclusive and supportive of all who reside in the UNA, such as families, athletes, the youth, and residents from across the board. This would include: consultation towards the increased investments in daycare service, discounted and/or free access to UBC facilities (MOA, Libraries, Swimming pools, etc.), and increased funding of recreational and cultural amenities. Lastly, I plan on actively addressing the concerns of all members of the community by establishing a working group to address the key concerns in regards to safety. This working group would consist of Residents, Seniors, Students, and PACS of the community. As a woman of Asian descent and as a student myself, I understand firsthand how our neighbourhoods should be a place where we can work, live, and play.

What brought you to live in the UNA community?

Having lived in UBC for the past 3 years, I was drawn to the vibrancy of the UNA Community. Coming from South East Asia, I sought a home away from home, where I could not only find a community, but actively contribute to its development. Whilst taking a stroll around Wesbrook, I see and meet people from all walks of life- families, students and faculty, and older residents, but all with one thing in common: our UNA. It is these people, aka you, that make up our UNA and more importantly, cultivate the peaceful culture we have. Because of that, I want to play a role in propelling the UNA to not only maintain that, but also to be at the forefront of innovation and development.

Where in Canada, or the world, did you grow up? What about living in the UNA reminds you of your childhood home?

Growing up, I was raised in the Philippines for over 17 years, a country known for its people and they're welcoming smiles. I find that no different here at the UNA (except maybe the colder weather!), as neighbours not just know each other, but are a close-knit community. The UNA reminds me of my childhood home because of its people and the different stories they carry. Whether it be through striking up a conversation while in line at Save-On, stopping to pet an adorable dog and getting to know their owner, or even the brief "How are you?" in the elevator, the UNA doesn't just remind me of home, it has become it.

How would you describe your normal daily routine?

Be it sunny or rainy (more often than not it's starting to be a lot more rainy), I love starting my mornings with a cup of coffee on the balcony to be able to reset and set the right mindset for the day. From there, I make the trek to campus, where I go to class and work. While I'd like to say that I have a set daily routine, the truth is that each day differs, but I can always count on going home and relaxing with a good book with even better food. In the evenings, I enjoy going on walks or playing on the fields of Wesbrook with my friends, and of course, the night wouldn't be complete without a stop at Sharetea for bubble tea.

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