On a recent college tour sponsored by the British Columbia Council for International Education, a number of Pacific Northwest high school counselors and independent educational consultants were given a peek at some well-regarded and surprisingly affordable post-secondary educational options. After a week’s whirlwind tour I’ve come away with several observations about the colleges and universities in British Columbia, and why studying there might just be a great option for US students. This first article in the series will address the general “why study in BC Canada” question. Subsequent articles will give brief highlights of the institutions featured on the tour.

Though BC is in Canada, it has a very “Northwest” vibe to it, and US students from the Pacific Northwest studying there will not have to deal with much culture shock. It feels much like “home” with a few subtle differences. For example, restrooms are called washrooms, instead of a steady green “go” traffic light they are flashing green, and there’s a weird fascination with poutine, which is French fries covered in cheese curds then smothered in gravy.