A Student's Take on Capilano University

A CapU student reflects on finding confidence, community, and creative opportunity in North Vancouver.

Caption: Jasper Chu, a third-year Communication Studies student and Student Recruitment Ambassador, reflects on his experience at CapU.

My name is Jasper Chu, and I am currently in my third year of the Bachelor of Communication Studies program at Capilano University's Main Campus in North Vancouver.

Starting university for the first time can feel overwhelming. Even though I had already graduated with a diploma in Broadcast and Digital Journalism from another institution, I still worried about whether I could handle life as a full-time undergraduate student. Looking back now, I can confidently say that no school has helped me better understand myself than CapU.

What has stood out most to me is how invested and passionate the faculty are. Their enthusiasm is contagious, making it difficult not to become deeply engaged in what they teach. Through this collaborative environment, I have developed a much clearer understanding of what resonates with me both personally and professionally.

Discover a teaching-focused university experience

For me, Capilano University stands out because it is a teaching-focused institution that prioritizes instruction, mentorship, and student success. That does not mean theory is absent from the curriculum. Instead, we learn how to apply theory in meaningful, real-world ways and use it to critically reflect on our lives.

With an average class-to-faculty ratio of 22:1, students can easily connect with instructors and receive individualized support. I found this accessibility especially valuable when tackling major assignments. The clarity of my instructors and CapU's commitment to supporting students gave me the confidence to truly invest the time needed to make my work impactful. The assignments themselves helped me map out my interests, articulate my passions, and gain a clear vision for my professional career.

Build professional skills through on-campus employment

Working part-time right on campus is another excellent way to develop practical skills while completing your studies.

For more than two years, I have worked as a Student Recruitment Ambassador, providing campus tours and contributing content to platforms like SchoolFinder. This role has taught me how to successfully balance academic and professional priorities while constantly encouraging me to step outside my comfort zone.

Working on campus has allowed me to sharpen my communication and research skills. Of all the jobs I have held so far, it has honestly been one of my most fulfilling experiences.

Join a community of accomplished alumni

CapU's rich history of successful alumni speaks volumes about the opportunities available to graduates. Since its founding in 1968, the university has produced alumni who have gone on to earn Academy Awards, Canadian Screen Awards, Emmy Awards, Governor General's Awards, Grammy Awards, and Juno Awards. Their accomplishments reflect the incredible strength of CapU's creative programs, particularly in areas such as jazz studies, film, animation, and the performing arts.

Whenever I pass by classrooms across campus, I am continually inspired by the talent and creativity of our students. Even as a Communication Studies student, I've had the flexibility to take elective courses exploring visual design, music, and entertainment. Those interdisciplinary experiences have helped me better understand and shape my own creative influences.

Experience the North Shore campus

CapU's North Vancouver Campus is highly accessible by public transit, making it a seamless and convenient option for students commuting from across the region.

The campus itself feels welcoming rather than intimidating. Its close-knit layout makes it easy to move between classes, study spaces, and food services. Whether I am grabbing a coffee before an early lecture or heading to the library to study, everything I need is within easy reach.

Surrounded by a lush cedar forest at the base of the North Shore Mountains, the campus offers a peaceful and inspiring environment throughout the year. Combined with a supportive, inclusive student community, it truly creates a space where you can thrive academically and personally.

A transformative university journey

In more ways than one, my time at Capilano University has been transformative. It has pushed me to grow personally and professionally, giving me the confidence to pursue new opportunities and discover my unique strengths.

I hope every incoming student has the opportunity to experience a university journey that is as fulfilling, supportive, and rewarding as mine has been so far.