Adriana Velibekova portrait’s photo overlooking the Okanagan Lake
Fascinated by businesses’ inner workings and global impact, Adriana Velibekova found her perfect fit at UBCO. The Faculty of Management’s real-world experience opportunities, smaller class sizes and vibrant community made Adriana’s educational journey extraordinary. Adriana has formed meaningful connections through group projects and the Management Student Association, despite the curveballs thrown by the pandemic. Her adventures include eye-opening trips like the Vancouver Business Trip and an enriching exchange program at the University of Manchester. With her sights set on a finance career, Adriana is gearing up to tackle the CFA designation, fully committed to continuous learning and growth.
Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO?
A: Growing up, I was always fascinated by how businesses operate and the impact they have on communities and the environment. I was drawn to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO because of its interdisciplinary approach, blending in so many aspects of business as well as having an opportunity to gain hands-on learning and real-world experience. UBCO offers the perfect platform to develop the skills needed to make a positive impact in the business world.
Additionally, UBCO’s reputation for fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment is something that greatly appealed to me. I thrive in settings where I can engage with peers and faculty closely, and the smaller class sizes at UBCO provide just that. The sense of community and support that you get at the UBCO campus is truly magical and very hard to find anywhere else.
Moreover, the stunning Okanagan location is a bonus. The natural beauty of the area and the vibrant campus life allow students to have a balanced and enriching university experience.
Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program?
A: It’s okay not to know everything! You are here to learn, and you should be so proud of yourself for showing up and being eager to explore. My biggest takeaway is the importance of maintaining a mindset of curiosity and openness.
The Bachelor of Management program at UBCO has taught me that the real value lies in the journey of learning and the process of discovery, eagerness to learn is what drives progress and personal growth. It’s about being comfortable with not having all the answers and being willing to ask questions, seek advice, and continuously expand your knowledge. This approach has not only made me more adaptable and resilient but also more innovative and creative in my problem-solving.
Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?
A: The most rewarding aspect has been the strong sense of community and collaboration within the program. The supportive environment created by both faculty and peers has fostered a culture of mutual learning and growth. Working on group projects and engaging in discussions with diverse individuals has not only enhanced my teamwork and communication skills but also broadened my perspectives and deepened my understanding of different business practices. Through group projects, real-life case opportunities, and a research assistant position, I have built meaningful, lifelong connections with both fellow students and professors.
Q: What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?
A: One crucial piece of advice is not to be afraid to say « Hi! » to the person who is sitting next to you in a class or at the library. Especially in the first year, everyone is trying to make new friends at the university. Meanwhile, making friends in your program is so important, do not forget to surround yourself with peers not only from the Bachelor of Management program but also from other faculties. Forming friendships with students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines can provide different perspectives, collaborative opportunities, and a broader understanding of the various fields. These connections can lead to lifelong friendships and professional relationships, offering support, inspiration, and valuable insights throughout your university journey and beyond.
Do not forget, it only takes one « Hi! » to form a friendship!
Q: Are you involved in any clubs or student organizations on-campus? If so, what inspired you to get involved?
A: Due to COVID and restrictions to travel, I have not been on campus for as much as I wish, and so I haven’t had an opportunity to explore that many student organizations. However, I still joined our beloved Management Student Association (MSA) for multiple events and trips, which have helped me to meet new people, and introduced me to so many work opportunities for the future. One of the most memorable trips was a Vancouver Business Trip. Every day was filled with meetings with different companies and their representatives, who answered everyone’s questions about the company’s culture and vision. It has helped me with understanding what I want to do in life, and with what kind of companies I share a vision and beliefs.
In addition to clubs and student organizations, the Bachelor of Management offers an opportunity to be included in the research as an undergraduate student. In the summer of 2023, I held the research assistant position, where I was working with Dr.Amir Ardestani-Jaafari and Dr. Jennifer Davis. This experience has taught me so much about the research and nuances that you face when dealing with data and personal information. Moreover, it has taught me skills that I am sure will help me in the future, like critical thinking, problem-solving and exceptional attention to detail.
Moreover, for my last semester of university, I have gone to an exchange program in the UK. I chose to go to the University of Manchester, and it was an amazing experience, where I got a chance to explore the country and its culture as well as compare the education styles between the two countries. I believe that an exchange program was a crucial part of my education, and the amazing « Go Global » team has made the application process as well as adaptation to the UK so easy. This experience has introduced me to some amazing people and allowed me to learn new skills along the way.
Q: What are your future goals?
A: When I had just begun my program, I knew that I had a passion for business, however, I was not sure which path I would take when it came to choosing a career path. After completing so many different courses and getting experience through coursework/group projects, I have realized that finance courses have stood out to me. Ever since my first finance class, I knew that this was what I wanted to do in the future. My goal is to complete a CFA designation and continuously expand my knowledge and skills in the finance industry. This commitment is not to stop learning and will ensure that I remain adaptable and innovative, ready to tackle new challenges and seize opportunities throughout my career.
Q: Do you have anything else you’d like to share?
A: As a recent graduate, I would like to share how incredibly grateful I am for the experiences and opportunities I’ve had in the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO. This program has not only equipped me with essential business knowledge and practical skills but has also profoundly shaped my character and aspirations. I encourage prospective students to stay curious and proactive. The world of business is ever-evolving, and a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability will serve you well.
Adriana Velibekova with friends at dinner.