University of Northern British Columbia
Located in the spectacular landscape of northern British Columbia, UNBC is one of Canada’s best small universities. We have a passion for teaching, discovery, people, the environment, and the North.
UNBC provides outstanding undergraduate and graduate learning opportunities that explore cultures, health, economies, sciences, and the environment. As one of B.C.’s research-intensive universities, we bring the excitement of new knowledge to our students, and the outcomes of our teaching and research to the world. In addition to fostering and celebrating academic excellence, UNBC is a welcoming place, with a learning environment that is friendly, inclusive, and supportive.
UNBC is a university both in and for the North. This mission has instilled a strong sense of ownership, purpose, and adventure among our students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the communities we serve. We are also Canada’s Green University™, leading the way to a more sustainable future for all.
Campus Land Acknowledgment: UNBC’s Prince George campuses and Shad UNBC are situated on the unceded traditional lands of the Lheidli T’enneh (pronounced Klate-lee Ten-eh, meaning “the people from the confluence of the river”), who are part of the Dakelh or Carrier Nation (pronounced DAH-kaylh, meaning “people who travel on water”). We acknowledge the enduring presence, deep traditional knowledge, and philosophies of the Indigenous Peoples with whom we share this land today.
Shad Program Team
Natalie Linklater
(NAT-uh-lee)
Sher/Her
Co-Program Director
As Program Director, my goal is simple: to make sure you grow, feel supported, and have an unforgettable Shad experience; one that is meaningful, energizing, and full of fun and new friendships.
My advice for you? Soak up every moment. Shad is what you make of it, so, ask the questions, take initiative, step outside your comfort zone, and dive all in.
Our team will be there every step of the way, giving you the structure, strategies, and tools you need to make it all happen!
Pascale Bockelmann
(pah-SKAHL)
She/Her
Co-Program Director
As Program Director my goal is to support youth in pushing their boundaries while building a kind, safe and resilient community. One of my big mottos is: create your own magic. This phrase is a reminder of the ability we all have to co-create amazing experiences for ourselves and each other. Shad is a space of curiosity, friendship, and adventure and an amazing opportunity for all of us to re-connect with our ability to create our own magic.
As a 2013 Shad Dalhousie Alum, and 5th year working at Shad, I can’t wait to welcome you into the Shad community and have tons of fun adventures with all of you and explore the natural beauty of Prince Geroge!
Arriving at Shad
Shad2026 runs from July 5 to July 31. We kindly request that you arrive between 12:00 p.m. (noon) and no later than 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 5. The earlier you arrive, the more time you will have to familiarize yourself with the campus, the program team and the other participants.
When you arrive at the UNBC Prince George Campus, Shad signage will be posted to help guide participants and parents to the residence building. There is a circular drop-off area between both residence buildings, Neyoh and Keyoh. A Shad banner will be displayed outside the residence entrance, and additional signs will direct parents to parking areas.
Residence Address: UNBC Residence, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9
Shad staff members wearing the Shad t-shirts will be stationed outside to welcome you and assist with directions. If there are any changes to your arrival time, please email us in advance.
A check-in desk will be set-up in the lobby of the residence building. Students will check in upon arrival and confirm their contact information, parent/guardian contact details, and health information. Student ID will be verified at this time. Students will receive their Shad welcome bag, Wi-Fi instructions, roommate assignment, and room key.
Parents are welcome to help students with bringing their luggage to their rooms using the elevator or stairs and may help them settle in. By 5:00 p.m., all students are expected to have said their goodbyes, and parents/guardians must depart from UNBC residence.
On Sunday, July 5th (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.), campus tours, a scavenger hunt, and recreational activities will be offered to help students get to know UNBC campus and connect with fellow Shads. Parents and students are welcome to participate in these activities together.
Lunch will be available between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., and the first Shad community meal will take place at 5:00 p.m. in the cafeteria.
Transportation from Airport
Please note that you are responsible for your own travel arrangements and cost to and from UNBC.
The UNBC campus is approximately 23 minutes/20 km from the Prince George International airport.
Taxis:
Prince George Taxi will be found waiting outside the terminal. They accept cash or credit cards. Phone Number: 250-564-4444
Rideshare Services: Uride
Accessible Taxis are available from Prince George Taxi by calling: 250-564-4444. A limited number of Large Mobility Aids are available.
Both Neyoh and Keyoh are words in the Dakelh (Carrier) language acknowledging the traditional territory on which the university is located.
Living at Shad
Residence
Shad participants and the program team will be living on campus for the duration of Shad. UNBC residences offer 4 bedroom suites with shared kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms in each suite. Each Shad will share a suite with 3 other same-gendered Shads. Residence buildings are not air-conditioned. A fan will be provided to each participant.
Bedding and linen will be provided (pillow, blanket, sheets, and towel). Soap will also be provided, but we encourage you to bring your own. There will be opportunities for participants to purchase items such as toiletries during the first week of the program, should you need extra supplies.
While living on campus, there may be other paying guests using the residence accommodations in other building wings. Participants will have keycard access to their suite and to their rooms. Participants have the responsibility of keeping their property safe and keeping their room door locked.
Food
Most of our meals will be eaten on campus. All meals will be eaten together as a group. Shared meals are an important part of the camp experience, providing time to connect, build community, and reflect on the day’s activities. Participants are expected to attend meals and help create a respectful and inclusive dining environment. Keep in mind that it is a university, so the food may not be like your home cooked meals. There will be a variety of food that accommodates most tastes.
Please include any dietary accommodations or allergies in your Student Information Form. Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and evening snacks are included in your program fee.
Students should not bring money expecting to purchase meals or to order “outside food” as meal replacements. Meal delivery services (e.g. Skip the Dishes/ Doordash) are also not permitted to be used during the program. Students should not bring snacks with them to the program as there are a variety of allergies to be aware of in the community.
Laundry
There are shared washers and dryers in residence. The cost is $2 per load for a wash, and $2 per load for the dryer. A laundry card may be purchased for $5 and loaded with funds or you can use a laundry app. Laundry detergent will be provided. Dryer sheets will not be provided.
We will teach you how to do laundry! You will have time most evenings to do laundry.
Residence Key
You will be given residence keys for which you will be responsible. More information will be shared by your program director when you arrive.
Banking
We recommend that you bring some pocket money with you for transportation to and from the airport, laundry, optional Shad swag, and purchasing souvenirs.
We advise against bringing large amounts of money or other valuables (expensive jewelry and watches). There is no need for such items, and we cannot accept responsibility if they go missing.
There is an BMO bank machine on Campus should you need to withdraw additional funds. Other bank machines are off campus and unavailable to the Shads.
Computers
We recommend that you bring a laptop, tablet or another personal computing device for research, word processing, and other tasks related to the program. Wi-Fi access is available in residence and elsewhere on campus. Shad team members will assist you with Wi-Fi setup upon arrival. The University and Shad Canada do not take any responsibility for lost/damaged/stolen valuables or property.
If you are unable to bring a laptop, please contact us before the program begins.
What to Bring
Clothing – Accessories
- Warm Jacket/Raincoat with hood
- Baseball-type hat (sun/rain)
- Casual spring and summer clothes
- Hoodie or sweater
- Long pants and shorts (long pants may be required in labs)
- Long and short sleeve t-shirts
- 1 outfit you can get dirty and not care about
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Bathrobe
- Socks
- Swimwear
- Comfortable clothing for daily recreation activities
- One or two slightly dressy outfits for events such as the design project conference, Open Day and Banquet (some will bring a suit, pantsuit or dress, others will be “business casual”; bring whatever makes you comfortable!)
- Cultural Clothes you would like to share (please see items not to bring)
- Identity clothing or items (please see items not to bring).
- Bug hat/bug jacket/bug suit
- Eye mask (due to Prince George’s northern location, daylight hours are long, and the sun sets late in the evenings. You may wish to bring an eye mask to help ensure a comfortable night’s sleep).
- 1 item to mend (something with a hole in it, such as a sock)
- Earplugs
Footwear
- Business attire/formal shoes
- Athletic shoes (for indoor and outdoor use; closed toe shoes required in athletic facilities and labs)
- Optional: Water safe shoes/water shoes
- Hiking shoes/boots
- Sandals or flip-flops (for shower use)
Personal Items
- Bath towel
- Towel, face cloth
- Hairdryer
- Toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothbrush/paste, etc.)
- A supply of face masks (in case you get sick)
- Other personal hygiene items (hand sanitizer, tissues, deodorant, etc.)
- Anti-itch bug cream (e.g. After Bite)
Documents and Medication
- Health Card
- Medical insurance card (if available)
- Bank card (if you choose to bring one)
- Medication (if needed)
- Extra pair of glasses/contacts (if you wear them)
- Prescription refill note (if taking medication)
- Pain relief medication
- Allergy medication (e.g. Banadryl, Claratin)
- Epi pen (if needed)
- Inhaler (if needed)
Outdoor Gear
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater)
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm
- Umbrella
- Small backpack (for hiking/day trips)
- Flashlight (NOT your phone)
- Sleeping bag
- Air mattress/foam (for under your sleeping bag – optional)
- Beach towel
Other
- Personal notebook or paper
- Writing tools
- Laptop, tablet, or smartphone
- Memory stick
- Alarm clock
- Watch
- Calculator
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Reading material
- Basic sports equipment (baseball glove and ball, football, etc.)
- Musical instruments (along with sheet music)
- Music
- Bluetooth speaker
- Photos of family and friends
- Pocket Money (a small amount for things like laundry, taxi to/from airport, and souvenirs)
- Extra pillow (for more of an “at home” feeling)
- Extra hangers
Do Not Bring
- TV/gaming PC/game system (e.g., Switch, Steam Deck)
- Pets (service animals exempted; please inform your program director for accommodations)
- Any vehicle, motorized or not, unless required for accessibility
- Any dangerous goods or weapons
- Cigarettes or vapes/e-cigarettes
- Alcohol or illegal or recreational drugs, including cannabis
- Expensive jewelry or other valuables
- Strongly scented products: Shad is a fragrance-free environment. Please leave perfume and cologne at home.
Please note that Shad is not liable for any lost, stolen or damaged personal items.
Please contact the program team if you have questions about bringing any of the above.
What to Expect
Shad Values
Our values are what make Shad the incredible program that it is. At our Shad campus, these values are vigorously embraced – just like they are at each of the other campuses across Canada. Our values are as follows:
- We cherish the freedom to explore, create, and innovate.
- We aspire to excellence in all we do.
- We are committed to the respect, cooperation, and shared fun that builds a powerful, supportive community, while remaining mindful of the safety and well-being of that community.
- We value diversity and open discussion.
- Our behaviour is always governed by respect for others and the highest standards of ethical conduct.
Being a Shad means accepting these values fully into everything you do! Adherence to these values determines how successful your Shad experience will be. They are sacred trusts.
Diverse & Inclusive Community
A diverse and inclusive community is an important value of the Shad program. You will meet students from across Canada, with different lived experiences and backgrounds. Some of you have experience with complex, high responsibility activities such as traveling or being away from home, while for others, this may be your first time being apart from family. Respect for all individuals is a requirement for a successful community.
Community must be preserved and protected in the Shad program. There are no exclusive relationships at Shad, whether for the purposes of romance, clique, gender, ethnicity, or any other reason. Relationships that exclude (or attempt to exclude) others will not be accepted. Intentionally excluding others is a form of bullying and could result in dismissal from the program. The month at Shad provides you the opportunity to make connections with a community of other exceptional students. We hope that this tight-knit community that forms at Shad will continue for many years after the program.
Supportive Team
The Shad team is here to support you. Your program team is made up of leaders who are committed to working with students to meet their needs.
Supervised Community
Shad is a supervised community. Every member of the program team is charged with the responsibility of ensuring your safety and protection. We take this responsibility seriously! This means that we will need to know approximately where you are and what you are doing at all times. This level of awareness ensures that in case of an emergency, we can account for your whereabouts quickly.
You are also a partner in ensuring your own safety and the safety of the Shad community. You are expected to ensure that your behaviour is always aligned with the Shad values.
Just because the community is supervised does not mean that you won’t have freedom to engage in a range of activities across the university campus. We take advantage of many of the various programs, departments, recreational facilities and spaces on campus to ensure that you enjoy an exciting university experience.
Schedule
You can expect life at Shad to be busy, but don’t worry, we have downtime and recreational activities built into the program as well. Each day, you can expect a different combination of lectures, workshops, recreational and cultural activities, as well as unscheduled time that you can use to connect with your peers, rest, connect with family, work on your design project, and reflect on what you’ve learned and accomplished so far.
Tech-etiquette: Appropriate usage
The ability to rapidly access relevant information can be key to innovation. There is no question that effective use of technology can be a useful tool. That said, the appropriate use of technology is essential for an effective learning/teaching/cooperative environment. There is etiquette for the use of technology. Rather than provide a long list of rules that will define acceptable use of technology, our technology policy is governed by the same core values as Shad.
All use of technology — including cell phones, notebooks, tablets, translators and the like — must uphold the principles of excellence, responsibility and creativity. While you might be an exceptional multitasker, maintaining devoted attention to a task at hand is a hallmark of responsibility and maturity. When it comes to the use of technology, know what’s right, do what’s right and be respectful!
Recreation at Shad
There will be opportunities for recreation throughout your time at the program including physical and creative activities. Each campus takes advantage of their unique surroundings and plans fun, exciting ways to engage within your Shad community.
Energy Management
Shad is most enriching when we have sufficient energy to be fully engaged in all program activities. After a long and busy day, everyone needs adequate rest. We also need to respect others and allow them to re-energize themselves by getting the rest they need. Please manage your energy levels appropriately and allow others to do the same by going to bed at the appropriate time.
What You'll Need to Do Pre-Program
ShadSpeaks: (3–5 minutes)
ShadSpeaks is a community-building activity designed to help you share something you are genuinely interested in or passionate about, while getting to know your fellow participants. Talks should be tailored to your Shad audience and reflect your authentic voice and experiences.
Each presentation will be 3–5 minutes in length. A team member will serve as moderator and will give you a 1 minute, and a 30 second warning to wrap up the speech. You will also be given a 30-second grace period before being asked to stop. ShadSpeaks will be scheduled within the first two weeks of the program. Be prepared to stand and speak when called upon; presentations will follow a “popcorn” style format.
Once you have selected your topic, please add it to the tracking document. We encourage you to choose a unique topic and complete your ShadSpeaks speech before arrival.
Please ensure your presentation adheres to Shad Participant Code of Conduct found in the Participant Handbook. Topics must avoid content related to violence, racism, sexism, or other forms of harm or discrimination.
PowerPoint or digital visual aids are not permitted. However, you may bring a prop, physical object, or small memento to pass around if appropriate. Speaking notes are allowed.
Finally, please avoid the use of AI in preparing your talk. We want to hear your voice, your ideas, and your story!
ShadTile: (20 cm x 20 cm)
Your ShadTile (or BioTile) is a creative 20 cm x 20 cm tile (paper or lightweight block) that represents the important parts of who you are. It is designed to introduce you to the Shad community in a fun, visual, and personal way.
Your tile will be printed (if created digitally) and presented during the first few days of the program. Each participant will have a strict 60 seconds to present their ShadTile to the community. No additional aids or technology may be used during your presentation. Your tile and your voice are all you need!
Get creative! You might choose collage, painting, drawing, mixed media, or a digital design. However you choose to create it, we want to see your creativity, personality, and what matters most to you.
Finally, please avoid the use of AI in preparing your ShadTile. We want to see your creativity!
Cultural and Identity Clothing:
At Shad, we celebrate diversity and identity, and a special evening will be dedicated to this. We invite you to bring something that represents your culture or identity, such as a symbol, piece of clothing, or meaningful object, to share with the community. Please avoid bringing any dangerous items or weapons, including pocket knives, as well as anything on the “Do Not Bring” list.
Pre-program Online Forms:
To help us prepare for your arrival, please fill out these three forms:
- 2026 Shad UNBC Travel Details Form
- 2026 Shad UNBC Student Information Form
- 2026 Shad UNBC ShadSpeaks Topics
As the program approaches, we will host an information call to review Shad details and answer any questions you may have.
Shad Open Day
What happens when a diverse group of high school students from across Canada come together in the spirit of science, technology and entrepreneurship? Shad Open Day is a day to put your campus and your accomplishments on display for the community.
Live Virtual Open Day:
Date: Thursday, July 29th
Time: 1:30 – 4:30 pm (PT)
Platform: Google Meet (link will be sent closer to the date)
In-Person Open Day:
Date: Thursday, July 29th
Time: 1:30 – 4:30 pm (PT)
Location: will be shared closer to the date.
In-Person Variety Show:
Date: Thursday, July 29th
Time: 7:30 – 9:00 pm (PT)
Location: will be shared closer to the date.
Leaving Shad
The Shad program concludes at 11:00 am on July 30, and Shad will ensure that all participants are transferred to parents, or are on their way home by 11:00 am. We will make sure that taxis are available at the residence to bring participants to the airport for their flights home.
Please note that the cost of transportation to and from your campus is the responsibility of the participant. If you have a bus/train/plane to catch, you will need to make arrangements to get from the campus with plenty of time before your scheduled departure time.
If your parents/guardians are picking you up by car, they should plan to do this between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 25th.
Participants must provide their travel details to staff members by July 5th (on arrival on campus), and notify us of any changes.
Contact us
Have any questions?
Feel free to reach out to your program team:
shadprogram@unbc.shad.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
Special accommodation requests
Q: I have a special accommodation request. How do I submit my request and will you be able to help me?
A: You will need to inform us of the special accommodations that you require ahead of time. We will let you know what we can do to support you as best as possible. We want to help make sure your experience here is exceptional.
Visitors
Q: Can I have visitors (family, friends) during Shad? Can I leave campus for a non-emergency reason?
A: No, for the safety of participants, we cannot accommodate visitors or participants leaving campus during the program.
Contact During the Program
Q: How can my parents contact me during Shad?
A: Your parents can contact you on your cell phone (although you may not be able to answer due to program activities) or via email. Emergency contact information will be provided closer to the program.
Mail can be sent to:
<Participant Name>
Shad UNBC
UNBC Residences
3333 University Way
Prince George, B.C., V2N 4Z9
Q: How can I stay up to date with what my Shad is doing?
A: During the program, you can stay up to date on events through our daily Instagram posts created by the Shads, and weekly e-newsletter, also written by the Shads. To receive the newsletter, make sure we have your email address upon check-in. Our Instagram handle is @Shad_UNBC.
Free Time
Q: How much free time will I have?
A: Shad is an immersive program with a full schedule of activities. Most of your time will be spent engaging in the plethora of activities we have planned for you! There is often a time before or after meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) when you can take time for yourself, to rest, or to call home as needed. There are also two short breaks (15 minutes) in the morning and afternoon. Most evening activities will wrap up around 9:00 p.m., which provides you with an hour and a half to wind down in the evenings, with a bedtime of 10:30 p.m. Given the immersive nature of Shad, participants will not have the time to engage in other commitments during the month of July (i.e., summer school, online courses, or additional projects, studying, practice, or training). Full-time commitment to Shad is expected. If you are in need of an accommodation or have any concerns please reach out to us via email so we can discuss this on a one-on-one basis.
Outside Food
Q: Can I order food?
A: No. Participants will have 3 meals daily and an evening snack. To promote inclusivity, participants are not permitted to order take-out food (e.g. Skip the Dishes/ Doordash). Students are welcome to bring/purchase snacks to have with them in residence during the evening. Please be mindful that there are a variety of allergies within the community. Snacks containing high-risk allergens, such as nuts and shellfish, should be avoided.
Instruments
Q: Will I have access to a piano to practice regularly?
A: Shad is a wonderfully musical place with many spontaneous jam sessions. We encourage Shads to bring their sheet music or other instruments with them. Note that access to instruments is limited by the program schedule and the residence’s quiet hours (11pm – 8am). Therefore, regular daily practice is not guaranteed. Shad Lakehead will have access to a piano.
Gym Access
Q: Will I have access to athletics facilities such as a gym or pool?
A: Participants will have access to a fitness facility during specific designated recreation time during the program.