Subah Habib
Transit Tech Career and Technical Education High School
SEO Scholars Program
Brooklyn, New York
Where Independence Met Belonging
Growing up in New York City all my life, I always felt like I was surrounded by
possibilities, but also held back by routines and expectations. Living in an immigrant Brown
household, the city was always seen as the “American Dream,” a place where success seemed
possible—but I hadn’t really felt what independence could be. Coming into my junior year
summer, I wanted an experience that would push me out of my comfort zone, where I could
explore on my own and see what I was truly capable of. SDC’s Canada: Glaciers to the Sea
ended up being exactly that.
From the moment we landed in Vancouver, I felt both nervous and excited. Living on
UBC’s campus, exploring the city, walking the seawall, biking around, and visiting museums
gave me small glimpses of independence. I loved learning about First Nations culture at the
Museum of Anthropology, and celebrating Canada Day was such a unique experience. Even
simple moments, like wandering Granville Island or laughing with my group over ice cream,
reminded me that I could navigate new spaces on my own—and enjoy it.
The program really shifted when we traveled north to Cheakamus Centre and Squamish.
Living in a traditional longhouse, learning indigenous skills like weaving and cooking, rafting,
rock climbing, and camping pushed me in ways I didn’t expect. I had to rely on myself and my
group, from pitching tents to building fires, and every success felt meaningful. These experiences
didn’t just teach me survival skills—they taught me patience, teamwork, and trust, not just in
others but in myself.
The three-day hiking and camping expedition in Garibaldi Provincial Park was by far the
toughest but most rewarding part of the trip. Hiking over 40 kilometers, sleeping in tents, sliding
down snowy slopes, and swimming in icy glacial water pushed me physically and mentally. I
remember laughing and screaming at the same time while sliding down the alpine snow—it was
terrifying and thrilling all at once. Waking up next to glacial lakes, surrounded by mountains and
birds, made me feel alive in a way the city never could. I left that part of the program feeling
proud of what I could do, and more confident in myself than ever before.
Along the way, I learned so much about climate and the environment, which tied directly
into my interest in climate justice. Seeing the glaciers, rivers, and forests up close gave me a real
sense of why protecting these spaces matters. It also made me reflect on the bigger picture—how
our actions affect the world, and how I want to be part of creating change.
The friendships I made on this trip are something I’ll never forget. Late-night talks,
joking while setting up tents, cheering each other on during hikes—we became a family. These
were people I probably wouldn’t have met otherwise, but the bond we formed was immediate
and real. Sharing those highs, lows, and laughs made the experience even more meaningful, and I
know these connections will last a lifetime.
Looking back, this program gave me so much more than I expected. I came hoping to
challenge myself and explore independence, and I left with confidence, lifelong friendships,
unforgettable memories, and a deeper understanding of the world. SDC Canada taught me what
it really feels like to step out of my comfort zone, trust myself, and grow in ways I didn’t know I
could. It’s an experience I’ll carry with me forever.