Justin Dean posing in front of Okanagan lake
From the moment Justin Dean set foot on UBCO’s campus, his sights were set on earning his CPA designation. Engaging in transformative group projects and leading clubs like JDC West, he honed his teamwork and leadership skills while immersing himself in the hands-on experiences offered by the Management program. Connecting with professors and industry leaders has proven invaluable, nurturing Justin’s growth and exploration in the accounting field. As VP of Operations of the Accounting Club, Justin has forged a large network, embodying the proactive and resilient spirit that defines UBCO’s Management program.
Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO?
A: I was drawn to the Management program because it offered a variety of courses that provided a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape, which complemented my goal of fulfilling the CPA PEP requirements. Additionally, the smaller campus helped me feel connected to the place, culture, and people, preventing the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program?
A: Group projects in the management program have been my biggest takeaways, particularly courses like MGMT 290 Industry Analysis and MGMT 360 Business Conditions. Furthermore, participating in clubs like JDC West allowed me to utilize and build on my strengths in team settings while also recognizing and leveraging the unique strengths of my peers.
Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?
A: The most rewarding aspect has been the opportunity to connect with professors, peers, and industry professionals, which has helped me forge a strong network of professional relationships. These connections have significantly impacted my mindset, shaping me to proactively seize opportunities offered by the program and the type of students it attracts.
Q: What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?
A: The Management program is rich in opportunities and heavily intertwined with the local communities. It offers a diverse range of courses, allowing you to focus on a specific business domain. My advice is to explore these opportunities and see what excites you. Don’t hesitate to pursue things that make you nervous about the future. Also, connect with professors or students of the management program as the faculty is very helpful and supportive in addressing any specific questions that you have.
Q: Are you involved in any clubs or student organizations on-campus? If so, what inspired you to get involved?
A: JDC West was a significant stepping stone in my campus involvement. It enhanced my presentation skills, teamwork, and case analysis abilities, while also helping me build stronger connections within the faculty. This networking opened up further opportunities, such as my role as VP Operations in the accounting club. I firmly believe that each opportunity you take leads to more doors opening, but it’s up to you to seize the opportunities around you.
Q: Are you or have you been in a co-op placement? If so, what was your role with that company?
A: Although I haven’t gained work experience through the co-op program, I am currently in a summer internship with Grant Thornton! I’m primarily compiling financial statements, providing recommendations for business practices, and planning and executing for client engagements.
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: The co-op program has some incredibly beneficial resources to take advantage of, and some companies prefer to hire students enrolled in their university’s co-op program. In my internship, I have gotten the chance to apply my knowledge gained in the Management program and have learnt more about the business landscape that can’t be taught in class.
Q: What are your future goals?
A: I want to earn my CPA designation while working for an accounting firm. Although I am still uncertain about my long-term career path, I am at a stage in my life where I aim to keep my options open and gain as much experience as possible. I am excited to see what I learn from these experiences, how they shape my career goals and the direction my future will take.
Q: Do you have anything else you’d like to share?
A: University is such a transitional period of your life, and it’s easy to put pressure on yourself to make the perfect choices. However, it is more important to take your time, be introspective, ask questions, grab opportunities, and keep doors open. You will find yourself to have built a strong network and walk out with tremendous growth personally and professionally.
Justin Dean with his MGMT friends