Insha’s individual headshot
In the bustling corridors of UBCO, Insha Zameer Hooda is approaching the final stretch of her Bachelor of Management journey. Driven by a quest for knowledge and a passion for business, Insha has found a home in the Management community as the VP of Academic Affairs for the Management Student Association and as a founding member of Engineers in Action Okanagan. Extending beyond academics, Insha seized a co-op opportunity at Integris Consulting Ltd as a Project Coordinator where she applied classroom to support the delivery of large-scale transportation and infrastructure projects. Insha’s journey is just beginning; with her blend of academic excellence, practical experience and leadership, she is poised to make a significant impact in the world of business.
Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO?
A: The decision to pursue the Bachelor of Management program at UBC Okanagan was a natural choice for me, driven by both my aspiration to attend UBC and the unique opportunities offered by the program. From the moment I received my offer, I knew it was the perfect fit. What particularly attracted me to the program was its diverse range of offerings, which promised to provide a well-rounded education and allow me to explore various environments within the business world. One aspect that stood out to me was the Co-op program, offering the chance to gain invaluable real-world, professional experience. This hands-on approach to learning aligned perfectly with my desire to acquire theoretical knowledge and apply it in practical settings. The combination of academic excellence, experiential learning opportunities, and the reputable UBC name made the Bachelor of Management program a great choice for me.
Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program?
A: One of the most profound aspects of the program has been the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse range of individuals, mirroring the dynamics of real-world professional environments. Through engaging in case studies, research-based assignments, and presentations, I’ve improved my critical thinking skills and developed the ability to effectively work alongside people from various backgrounds. These experiences have been instrumental in cultivating essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, all of which are invaluable in navigating today’s workplace landscape. Moreover, the program has played a pivotal role in bolstering my confidence, empowering me to tackle challenges head-on and thrive in any professional setting. The ability to work collaboratively and the cultivation of vital soft skills have been my most significant takeaways from the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO.
Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?
A: One of the most rewarding aspects of the program has been the incredible individuals I’ve had the privilege of meeting. The opportunity to collaborate with diverse peers across various courses has not only enriched my academic experience but also led to the formation of deep and meaningful friendships. Some of my closest friends today are those I met through this program, individuals whom I admire and respect greatly. A standout moment was during a random group assignment in MGMT 290, where I connected with someone inspirational who has since become both a close friend and a role model. These friendships have enhanced my university years by providing a support network that extends beyond the classroom. The bonds forged through shared experiences in the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO have undoubtedly been one of the most rewarding aspects of my academic journey.
Q: What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?
A: One piece of advice I would offer to prospective students considering this program is to recognize the tremendous opportunity for personal and professional growth beyond the classroom. While the academic aspect of the Management program is undoubtedly excellent, it’s the extracurricular involvement that truly sets the stage for holistic development. I speak from personal experience when I say that engaging in activities outside the classroom has been immensely beneficial for me. Whether it’s participating in clubs, student organizations, internships, or community projects, these experiences offer invaluable opportunities to develop crucial skills, expand your network, and gain real-world insights. Embrace these opportunities with enthusiasm and an open mind, as they have the potential to shape your university experience and future career path. By taking full advantage of all the program has to offer, both academically and experientially, prospective students can truly maximize their potential and set themselves up for success in the dynamic world of business.
Q: Are you involved in any clubs or student organizations on-campus? If so, what inspired you to get involved?
A: Yes, I have been actively involved in various clubs and student organizations on campus. In the past, I served as the Vice President of Academic Affairs for the Management Student Association (MSA) during the 2022-2023 academic year. This role presented an exciting opportunity to spearhead initiatives aimed at enhancing the academic experience for management students. One of the highlights was reintroducing in-person case competitions and organizing business trips to cities like Calgary, Kelowna, and Vancouver post-COVID, providing invaluable networking and learning opportunities for our members. My inspiration for getting involved with the MSA stemmed from a desire to contribute to the creation of enriching experiences that would foster both personal and professional development within our community.
Currently, I am also a founding member of Engineers in Action Okanagan, a non-profit club dedicated to leveraging the skills and expertise of students from diverse backgrounds to contribute to international initiatives. Our primary focus is on building footbridges in underserved communities, offering students the unique opportunity to engage in hands-on humanitarian work. I was drawn to Engineers in Action because it aligns perfectly with my passion for making a tangible difference in the world while providing students with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to global challenges.
Q: What is Engineers in Action (EIA) and why should Management students consider getting involved with this organization?
A: Engineers in Action (EIA) is a non-profit organization committed to addressing critical infrastructure needs in developing countries, with a specific focus on building footbridges in regions like Eswatini and Bolivia. These footbridges serve as vital lifelines for communities, especially during rainy seasons when existing infrastructure becomes impassable. They provide access to essential resources such as schools, food markets, and health clinics, fundamentally improving the quality of life for residents. EIA’s Bridge Program not only aims to create a world where everyone can live healthy and dignified lives but also empowers students to become global leaders through hands-on involvement in community development projects.
At UBCO, I, along with three other students, have successfully established the third Canadian chapter of EIA and the first in British Columbia. One of the most exciting aspects of our initiative is the active involvement of university students as the primary drivers behind these bridge projects.
Despite its name, EIA is not limited to engineering students; it welcomes students from all backgrounds and faculties to contribute their skills and expertise. Management students, in particular, have a crucial role to play in areas such as project management, finance, and fundraising, which are essential for the success of EIA’s initiatives. During my co-op, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the pivotal role that non-engineering expertise plays in the success of large-scale projects. Similarly, EIA relies on the expertise of Management students to ensure the success and sustainability of its bridge program.
Getting involved with EIA provides Management students with a unique opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary team, gain real-world experience, and be part of something truly meaningful. It allows us to apply our skills in a global context, contribute to positive change, and develop as leaders committed to making a difference in the world.
Q: Are you or have you been in a co-op placement? If so, what was your role with that company?
A: Yes, I recently completed a 12-month co-op placement at Integris Consulting Ltd, a Project Management Consulting firm. In my role as a Project Coordinator, I provided support to the Project Manager and Assistant Project Manager in the successful delivery of large-scale transportation and infrastructure projects. Central to my responsibilities was ensuring effective coordination and communication within multidisciplinary teams, facilitating seamless project execution.
Additionally, I had the opportunity to contribute to Indigenous Consultation initiatives as part of the Indigenous Relations team, which broadened my understanding of stakeholder engagement and cultural sensitivity within project management contexts.
Throughout my co-op experience, I was exposed to a diverse range of tasks that allowed me to expand my skill set significantly. From cost management and risk assessment to workflow management and project progress monitoring, I embraced each challenge with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence. I gained hands-on experience in project reporting, work inspection, and accuracy evaluation, all of which were invaluable in enhancing my project management capabilities.
Overall, my co-op placement at Integris Consulting provided me with a comprehensive understanding of project management practices and reinforced the importance of effective teamwork and communication in achieving project success. It was a transformative experience that significantly contributed to my professional growth and development.
Q: If you have participated in the co-op program, what were the greatest benefits of the program and what advice would you share with someone considering doing a co-op?
A: Participating in the co-op program was undeniably one of the best decisions I made during my university career, and its benefits continue to resonate with me daily. While classroom learning equips us with foundational knowledge, it’s the real-world experiences gained through co-op that truly shape us into capable professionals ready for the workforce.
The opportunity to apply and expand upon theoretical knowledge in a practical setting is invaluable. Working alongside experienced professionals who are invested in your growth not only accelerates your learning but also validates your potential. In my own experience, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with remarkable individuals who have supported my development and inspired me to reach new heights.
Navigating the job search process as a full-time student can indeed be challenging, but my advice to anyone considering co-op is simple: seize the opportunity. Don’t underestimate the support and resources available through the co-op office; they are there to help, but you must be proactive in seeking assistance. Additionally, while the allure of larger companies in metropolitan areas may be strong, don’t overlook the potential benefits of working for smaller local firms. These opportunities often provide a more focused learning environment, a diverse skill set, and a sense of community that can be immensely rewarding.
Embrace the opportunity wholeheartedly, and you’ll discover the transformative impact it can have on your personal and professional growth.
Q: What are your future goals?
A: Defining my future career goals is a journey that’s still unfolding, with each experience shaping my path in new and unexpected ways. Currently, my co-op experience in Project Management Consulting has captivated my interest, and I’m committed to continuing my journey with my current company. However, I firmly believe in the importance of lifelong learning and growth, and I strive to embody this belief in my professional endeavours.
Having grown up in a business-oriented family, entrepreneurship has always held a special allure for me. While I may explore entrepreneurial ventures in the future, for now, my focus is on fostering meaningful connections and building a network of inspiring individuals, whether through my work or my university community. Ultimately, my career aspirations are grounded in the desire to make a positive impact and contribute to the success and well-being of those around me.
Insha with MGMT friends at CABS