It only took 10 seconds of courage for Egan Wong to discover his passion for marketing and content creation. A vibrant 4th-year Bachelor of Management student at UBCO, Egan is currently diving deep into the world of marketing through his co-op placement. His journey began as a Social Media Ambassador, where he uncovered his love for the creative side of business. Since then, Egan has embraced various opportunities—co-op placements and hands-on projects—that showcase his growing skills in marketing, HR, and teamwork. With a firm belief in stepping outside his comfort zone, Egan has thrived by taking on new challenges, building meaningful connections, and putting himself out there. Through both his academic and co-op experiences, Egan has gained valuable practical skills, boosted his confidence, and developed a clear vision for his future in marketing. His story is a testament to the power of curiosity, persistence, and trusting the process.

Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

A: What drew me to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO was the perfect balance it offered between a high-quality education and an environment where I could truly grow. UBCO stood out to me because it provided high-level education without the intense competition found at UBC Sauder, allowing me better access to resources like co-op, clubs, and leadership opportunities. I saw it as the ideal foundation for my future career, especially as I realized that business management was the right path for me. I thrive in roles that involve connecting and collaborating with people, and I felt UBCO would help me develop the skills needed to become a future leader in my field.

Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program so far?

A: The Bachelor of Management program has been a fantastic learning experience, guiding me toward my passion for marketing and HR while providing a strong foundation across various business areas. Through group projects from different business management courses, I’ve gained valuable skills in teamwork, adaptability, and communication, all of which have been essential in my academic and professional growth. Connecting with professors from different fields has also offered inspiring insights, helping envision my career and shape my goals. Additionally, as the Management program provides many different seminars and workshops, they have equipped me with many practical skills such as networking, resume-building, and LinkedIn strategies.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?

A: The most rewarding part of the program has been discovering my passion for marketing and HR, which align perfectly with my strengths and career goals. Without the variety of courses, clubs and learning opportunities through the Management Program, I would take much longer to find my passion and calling. In addition, outside of the academics, I was able to build lasting friendships with classmates and peers which has created a supportive network that enriches both my academic and personal life. A standout experience was working on a project for a non-profit in my marketing class, MGMT 449 with Dr. Eric Li, which showed me the power of business to create positive change.

Q: What advice or insight would you give to a prospective student considering this program?

A: My biggest piece of advice for prospective students considering this program is to be confident and take that first step, even if it feels scary or nerve-wracking. It only takes 10 seconds of courage to do something that could make a huge difference—whether it’s asking a question, reaching out for help, or starting a conversation with a peer, professor, or professional. I used to be very shy and hesitant, often overthinking what others might think of me and holding myself back from opportunities. But I realized that worrying about others’ opinions only stopped me from growing. Taking that first step, even if it’s intimidating, has led to so many valuable experiences, whether it’s participating in group discussions, attending events, or simply connecting with people. It’s all about putting yourself out there and embracing the opportunities for growth that come with it. And if you make a mistake? So what! Everyone makes them, and people respect those who try and rectify their mistakes rather than those who stay silent.

Q: Can you share a bit about your experience as a Social Media Ambassador – what inspired you to apply? What did you enjoy the most and what did you learn?

A: My experience as a Social Media Ambassador allowed me to dive deeper into my passion for marketing and content creation. I’ve always been interested in social media as I like brainstorming content ideas, filming, and editing videos. So when the opportunity arose, I jumped at it. A highlight of working as a Social Media Ambassador was collaborating with Riko, Abby, and Emily to film content, which was very fun and always a good laugh. I also enjoyed interviewing MGMT students from different years and learning about their unique experiences. Working with my supervisor, Cassandra, was equally rewarding. She was encouraging and provided valuable feedback that helped us improve our work. As a result, this role taught me that content creation is more than just filming—it requires extensive planning, coordination, and teamwork. Overall, this experience reinforced my passion for marketing and boosted my confidence in my creative abilities.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your co-op placements? What have been the greatest benefits of the co-op program so far? What were your most beneficial learnings from the co-op placements?

A: My current co-op at The MRG Group as a Hospitality Marketing Intern has been an amazing opportunity to gain hands-on experience in marketing. I create live social media content for Instagram and TikTok, manage content calendars, and send out promotional mailers for venues like Dublin Calling and The Yale Saloon. I also research city events, assist with lead generation, and help manage marketing budgets and ad campaigns. One of the most exciting aspects of the role is attending events like concerts and comedy shows while filming content, which makes my work both fun and dynamic. On a more serious note, this co-op experience has taught me valuable marketing strategies, including audience outreach and content management, while also allowing me to develop relationships with influencers. A key highlight of my internship is working with other interns to host a punk band showcase, called Freaks to the Front. Through this event, I’m gaining experience in talent acquisition, production management, and ticketing which has broadened my skills and knowledge. I am very thankful for this placement as it has reinforced my passion for marketing and deepened my understanding of event execution. I can confidently say that this is the career path I want to pursue.

Q: What advice would you share with someone considering doing a co-op?

A: If you’re considering a co-op, my advice is 100% go for it! There’s absolutely no downside. Co-op gives you the chance to discover what you truly want to do—and just as importantly, what you don’t want to do. That alone can give you a huge head start in your career journey. Plus, in today’s world, having real-world experience alongside your degree is just as important as the education itself. A co-op is a great way to apply all those theories you’ve been learning in class and turn them into actual skills that will serve you in the workplace. It’s also a safe space to make mistakes and learn from them, which is something that can really help you grow. And who knows? A co-op could even lead to a return offer, giving you a position after graduation. On top of all that, it’s an excellent way to build connections that could benefit your career long-term.

Q: What are your future career goals?

A: While I’m still figuring out the exact path I want to take, I know that marketing is where I want to be. I’m drawn to the fast-paced and creative nature of industries like fashion and entertainment, as I think they offer exciting opportunities to make an impact while having fun. My goal is to work for a big company that values creativity, innovation, and work-life balance. I want to find a role that challenges me, where I can continue to grow professionally and personally, while still maintaining time for myself outside of work.

Q: Do you have anything else you would like to share?

A: I truly believe it’s never too late to pursue something or figure out what you want to do. For me, I didn’t really know my direction until I started working as a Student Social Media Ambassador. That experience opened my eyes to the world of marketing and content creation, and it made me realize that sometimes, you just need to try things to discover what truly excites you. The beauty of this journey is that you don’t have to have it all figured out right away—just keep exploring and learning, and the path will unfold as you go.

Fourth-year Bachelor of Management student Kanish Alluri

When Workday Student launched, Kanish Alluri saw an opportunity to revolutionize the student experience in course selection. Driven by a passion to make navigating course options more intuitive, he envisioned a tool that would offer personalized course recommendations tailored to each student’s interests and campus preferences. His idea was to transform the standard platform into a more user-friendly, goal-oriented guide, empowering students to discover courses that truly align with their academic goals. With plans to further develop his project, Kanish is setting his sights on a dynamic career in the tech industry, where he hopes to continue innovating solutions that make a difference.

Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

A: What drew me to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO was the unique blend of business theory and practical application. The program’s emphasis on leadership, innovation, and sustainability resonated with my desire to develop skills that are not only relevant in the current market but also future-focused. UBCO’s collaborative learning environment and smaller class sizes appealed to me as it promised a more personalized and connected educational experience.

Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program so far?

A: My biggest takeaways from the program so far are the importance of adaptability, the power of diverse perspectives, and the value of building a well-rounded skill set. While the program emphasizes leadership and strategic thinking, I’ve made it a point to focus on learning technical skills as well—things like understanding data and improving my problem-solving techniques. This has complemented my managerial skills by helping me feel more confident in analyzing situations and making informed decisions. I’ve also realized how crucial it is to stay flexible and open-minded, especially when collaborating with others from different backgrounds.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?

A: The most rewarding part of the program so far has been the chance to develop a strong combination of both managerial and technical skills. Whether it’s through group projects, case studies, or hands-on simulations, I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned in ways that challenge me to think critically and solve complex problems. Building my technical skills alongside my management knowledge has been especially fulfilling, as it’s given me a deeper understanding of how different aspects of business come together. This balance of skills has made me feel more prepared to tackle real-world challenges in the future.

Q: Can you share what your chatbot project is about?

A: One of the most exciting projects I’ve worked on is a course recommendation engine that allows students to interact with a chatbot. The idea behind it was to create a tool that could simplify the process of finding relevant courses based on individual interests. For example, if a student expresses interest in finance, the bot recommends all the finance-related courses available on campus. The bot also distinguishes between campuses, so whether a student is part of UBCO or UBCV, they receive tailored recommendations. Additionally, I built in a feature that allows the bot to answer more detailed questions about course content or topics, much like how ChatGPT provides conversational assistance. This project not only enhanced my technical skills but also demonstrated how AI can improve the student experience by making course selection more personalized and efficient.

Q: What inspired you to pursue this topic in your project?

A: What inspired me to pursue this project was the transition to the new Workday platform, which has changed how students manage their academic information. While it introduced some new features, I saw room for improvement, especially when it comes to course selection. I wanted to build a tool that could enhance the experience by offering personalized course recommendations based on a student’s interests and campus, something that could make navigating course options more intuitive and helpful. The idea was to complement the platform by creating a more user-friendly way for students to find the courses that best fit their goals and needs.

Q: Are you looking to further develop this project or take what you’ve learned and apply it to another project?

A: I’m definitely looking to further develop this project. There are so many possibilities to expand its functionality, such as integrating more advanced AI to make course recommendations even more tailored or incorporating real-time feedback from students about their experiences with certain courses. I’m also interested in exploring how the bot could connect with other systems to provide even more seamless academic planning. At the same time, what I’ve learned from building this project—like problem-solving and developing useful tools—is something I’m excited to apply to future projects in different areas.

Q: What advice or insight would you give to a prospective student considering the Bachelor of Management program?

A: Don’t hesitate to take initiative and explore your own interests beyond the curriculum. The program gives you a solid foundation in management, but if you’re curious about technology or other areas, pursue those alongside your studies. There’s a lot of room for creativity and independent growth, and you can build something unique that complements what you’re learning in class. Take advantage of the opportunities to work on your own projects and find ways to apply the management skills you gain in innovative ways.

Q: Are you involved in any clubs or student organizations on campus? If so, what inspired you to get involved?

A: Last year I was involved in the Finance Club and Age Link. Being part of the Finance Club allowed me to explore my interest in financial markets and connect with like-minded students. It was a great way to deepen my understanding of finance while also networking with professionals and peers who share the same passion. As for Age Link, I was inspired to get involved because it gave me the chance to engage with the community, particularly with older adults, and make a positive impact by bridging the generational gap. Both experiences were valuable in developing both my professional and interpersonal skills.

Q: What are your future career goals?

A: I’d like to get into the tech industry, ideally in roles like business intelligence or data analyst. I’m really interested in how data can drive decision-making and help businesses operate more efficiently. Through my projects and the skills, I’ve developed, I’ve gained a solid understanding of both the management and technical sides of things, and I want to continue building on that. I see myself working in a role where I can combine my analytical skills with a strategic mindset to solve real-world problems and contribute to innovative solutions.

Fouth-year Bachelor of Management student Kanish Alluri and friends

Tate Bond, a dedicated 4th-year Bachelor of Management student, discovered his passion for business after transitioning from the Bachelor of Science program. His successful journey at UBCO was achieved by focusing on growth and development opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Through his involvement in the Consulting Club and the hands-on co-op experience at KPMG, Tate has acquired a diverse skill set and forged meaningful connections that have shaped his path toward a career in consulting and leadership.

Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

A: I started as a Bachelor of Science student but quickly realized that the program wasn’t right for me. I started taking more electives to see what interested me and liked the Management ones I chose. I knew I wanted to stay in Kelowna at UBC Okanagan, so I decided to transfer going into my second year, and it exceeded all my expectations.

Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program?  

A: My biggest takeaways have been the soft skills the program helps you develop. There are many opportunities for group work in Management classes, which allowed me to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and take on a leadership role. I was a very independent person before joining the program, so getting the opportunity to build up these skills was very rewarding.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?

A: The most rewarding part for me has been the opportunity to build relationships within the program and the sense of community it provides. I felt like I belonged as a student in the faculty, and many of my best friends today are people I met through the program. I’ve also had the opportunity to build relationships with professors beyond the classroom, and the ones I’ve talked to have all been incredible mentors.

Q: What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?

A: Make sure to look at opportunities outside of the classroom. While the classes help provide an overview of the business world, there’s much more to see. Going to MSA events, business trips, case competitions, and networking events has helped give me a broader experience than if I just spent all my time focused on classes, and I would encourage other students to take advantage of these opportunities.

Q: Are you involved in any clubs or student organizations on-campus? If so, what inspired you to get involved?

A: I was the Co-President of the Consulting Club this past year after serving as a Vice President the year before. I wanted to take on a larger role outside of the classroom this year, and I saw this position as a great opportunity. Being the Co-President allowed me to work closely with a team of motivated and hardworking students throughout the year. Also, it let me network with various experienced professionals in the industry. I was honoured to receive the Club President of the Year award alongside my Co-President, Gianni di Benedetto, and the rest of our fantastic team for my work with the club this year.

Q: Are you or have you been in a co-op placement? If so, what was your role with that company?

A: I completed one co-op term as a Consultant at KPMG this past summer. It was interesting to see how the corporate world operated, as I’d never done an internship before. It also gave me a chance to see what skills from the classroom I could apply in the real world. I’m returning to the company full-time this summer and am super excited to pick up where I left off.

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: I think gaining real-world experience in a field I’m interested in before graduating was beneficial. I also found that the co-op office provided helpful tips for resumes, cover letters, and job searches that helped me land the job I wanted. Although I decided to graduate without completing my full co-op designation, I would still recommend all students to consider the co-op program. It allows you to build your skills in a real-world environment and can save the stress of job-searching in your final year if you get a return offer from one of the companies where you complete a term.

Q: What are your future goals?

A: In the short term, I’m pursuing a career in consulting, with my co-op term and experience with the Consulting Club serving as a launching pad. Long-term, I see myself as a leader in the business world, either as an entrepreneur or executive of an existing business. Being a leader this past year with the club has been highly rewarding as it allowed me to help and guide others, and I would love to do that on a larger scale going forward.

Q: Do you have anything else you’d like to share? 

A: Be open to new experiences. The Bachelor of Management program offers many opportunities in and outside of the classroom, and the community it provides is beneficial. Being open to trying these new things helped me make the most of my time here and will serve me well in my career going forward.

Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

A: Growing up around business talks and diverse surroundings, I had always been keen in building my career in business and UBC had been one of my dream schools for a few years. When I came across the management program at UBCO, it stood out to me mainly because of how close-knit the student community was, making it easier to connect with other students, professors, and industry professionals.

Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program?  

A: My biggest takeaway from the program is the career skill set it allows one to build. Working with individuals from diverse backgrounds enriched my communication and collaboration skills and broadened my perspective. Moreover, by taking courses ranging from industry analysis to accounting and governance, I have been able to develop my strategic viewpoint and business acumen.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?

A: The most rewarding part of the program so far is its practical emphasis. Engaging with industry experts and professors throughout my studies, and then applying that knowledge in my capstone project, simulations, and business case competitions, has truly honed my skills, sharpening my ability to tackle complex business challenges with innovative solutions and strategic insight.

Q: What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?

A: Make sure you really dive into your studies by picking courses that interest you and ask for help if you need it. Look into joining clubs and getting involved with the MSA. It’s also super important to get to know your peers and professors as they could be the people you end up working with one day. Your time here is what you make of it, so put in the effort to make it count.

Q: Are you involved in any clubs or student organizations on-campus? If so, what inspired you to get involved?

I had a great opportunity to be the president of the MSA’s Accounting Club this year. Having gone to some of their events last year, I found like-minded individuals and that inspired me to get further involved. This year was great, I had a great time leading nine extremely talented individuals with whom I was able to build the club’s awareness and provide resources to students.

Q: Can you share a bit about your experience winning the Student of the Year award at the MSA Gala?

A: Winning the Student of the Year award at the MSA Gala was an incredibly humbling experience. This recognition felt like a collective achievement, celebrating not only my academic achievements and extracurricular involvement but also the support and inspiration I’ve received from the community. It’s motivated me to keep striving for excellence and to contribute positively to those around me.

Q: Are you or have you been in a co-op placement? 

Even though I wasn’t a part of the co-op program at UBCO, I interned at Dufil, a renown consumer goods company in Nigeria. As a treasury intern, I handled accounting tasks like reconciling book and bank records and assisting with product costing. Beyond the numbers, I built lasting connections and had insightful conversations that enriched my experience. It was a valuable opportunity that has positively influenced my career path.

I would definitely recommend doing a co-op while you can, because having done an internship after my third year, I definitely understand how valuable it is. It gave me some great industry insights and a better understanding of what I wanted to do in my future along with developing my work ethic. The co-op program at UBCO has some great resources that are very useful to set the building blocks of your career.

Q: What are your future goals?

A: My future goal is to pursue my CPA with a public practicing firm, working in audit or advisory. I want to be able to leverage the skills and insights gained to make impactful and strategic contributions in the field of accounting, aiming to drive innovation and ethical practices within the industry.

Q: Do you have anything else you’d like to share? 

A: At the beginning of my degree, I felt overwhelmed, but I quickly learned that learning happens as you go and that new experiences aren’t as daunting as they initially appear! Don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone or say yes to the next big opportunity. By embracing opportunities like co-op, campus involvement, and networking, you’ll expand beyond academics to enhance your practical skills, forge professional connections, and grow personally.

Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

A: I enrolled into the Bachelor of Management program in 2020 and what drew me to this was the array of opportunities that being at UBCO’s would bring for me. UBCO attracts a diverse breadth of people in its programs all to which I’ve had the opportunity to meet and create connections with. The amount of groupwork involved in all of the required MGMT courses has allowed me to generate friendships and career relationships.

Q: What were your biggest takeaways from the program?  

A: So far my biggest takeaway has been the opportunity to be enrolled in the UBCO Co-op interdisciplinary program. Having the opportunity to build out my resume and  make connections in the workforce has been one of my biggest success’s while being at UBCO. It has shown me the real-world applications of the enticing course work learnt in my first three years in the program.

Q: What was the most rewarding part of the program?

A: The most rewarding part so far has been the long lasting connections I’ve been able to make with students in my program, students from other programs, and the Management faculty and staff.

Q: What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?

A: I would say be prepared to collaborate with your peers and learn how to take different roles when being in a team dynamic. Management offers a very wide breadth of classes and I would encourage students to branch out and try as may different areas as you can.

Q: What has been your experience with co-op so far?

A: I am in going into my final term of the co-op program. I have stayed with the same company for my entire placement because of the amazing dynamic I’ve found while working there. My first two terms were as a marketing and growth specialist and have recently begun my new role in customer success and client relations.

Q: What have been the greatest benefits of the co-op program and what advice would you share with someone considering doing a co-op?

A: The co-op program has been one of the best experiences of my professional career. Not only have I gained crucial skills to add to my resume to make me a contender against other candidates, but I have been able to create connections in the fields that I would like to enter after I graduate. Being able to almost trial run what I would like to pursue post grad has shown me what I do and do not like in a company and in the career paths I am considering.

Q: What are your future career goals?

A: After I graduate I am currently planning on working in a company somewhere in order to gain more experience, then return back to schooling to complete my masters.

Q: Do you have anything else you’d like to share?

A: Enjoy and embrace the challenges that come with being in this program and learn from your mistakes. If you fail at something that is not as important as the lessons you can learn from that experience. Another piece of advice would be to meet as many people as you possibly can. Not only does this help you with all your collaborative work, but you also never know when the connections you’ve made with people will help you out in your professional goals.

What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

I originally enrolled at UBC Okanagan in the Bachelor of Arts program. I wanted to use Arts as a base for an eventual law degree, thinking it was a more typical pathway into law. While I absolutely loved Arts, when I arrived on campus and started networking with other students and alumni, I quickly realized that Business Management was better suited for my skill set and had the potential to foster more commercial awareness. Campus Services was very helpful and helped select my classes accordingly to ensure I had what I needed to transfer, which allowed me to move into Management from my second year onwards. The areas of skill development that I was drawn to in Arts (critical thinking, interpretation, creative strategy) were all present in Business Management but it was Management’s collegiate atmosphere that ultimately sold me.

What were your biggest takeaways from the program?  

Prior to moving to Kelowna, I was a bit more introverted and extremely nervous about public speaking. While presentations were a small part of the program itself, the skills I developed through group exercises and the accompanying work is something I now use on an almost daily basis. The program allowed me to hone my skills in a very supportive environment, alongside people who were all working towards the same thing. Now that I’m working in a role that requires me to negotiate, voice my opinion, and work closely with others, I’m grateful for the foundation that Management gave me. Although public speaking still isn’t my favourite activity, I know I have the necessary tools in place to do so confidently.

In addition to that, and perhaps more importantly, the years I spent becoming comfortable doing group work has completely altered how I view projects and working with others. That has been invaluable.

What was the most rewarding part of the program?

Management helped pull me out of my shell and gave me a very strong footing for my career path. While the project management and creative thinking skills I developed have proven to be useful, the most rewarding part of the program was getting to know other students and professors. I’m still in contact with some of my teachers and reach out to them for insight when needed. Some of my peers remain my best friends today and despite most of us living on different continents and pursuing different career paths, we regularly make time to catch up.

What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?

Go in with an open mind! While there were certain classes I was nervous about, like Negotiation, I grew to love it. It completely shifted my style of communication and gave me an insight into different personality types and how they operate. As a lawyer, this is obviously a very key concept to grasp, but taking it in university allowed me to work on it in a ‘low stakes’ environment. You quickly realize that everyone is in the same nerve-wracking scenario as you and needs to work together to succeed. Other classes, like Project Management, gave me competitive tactical skills that I used in various roles post-graduation.

It’s been particularly rewarding to see how many different career paths are available from the program. It’s difficult to find two people from Management who have gone down the exact same route, but all are successful in their own way.

What is your current occupation and how did you get there?

I will be a qualified solicitor in England in September 2024. I’m currently finishing my two-year training program (the UK equivalent of articling).

In my last year at UBCO, the owner of a marketing agency (a Management alumni) came into my marketing class as a guest speaker and I reached out about a part time role. I worked as a content writer during my fourth year and upon graduating, I joined the team full time and quickly moved up the ranks to become an equal owner of the agency. During this time I led a team of 10 and handled client services and marketing strategy. I was with that agency for 2 years before moving to Vancouver to join a larger agency and further my professional development with clients in a bigger city. While law was the eventual goal, I truly loved marketing and wanted to gain some career experience before going back to school.

After 2 years in Vancouver, I applied to law school in London, England and moved in September 2019. I did my law degree from 2019-2021, volunteering with pro-bono clinics and interning at Human Rights organizations along the way. London law firms typically recruit 2 years in advance so in my first year of law school, I secured a role with a firm. I then went on to do my Legal Practice Course (mandatory for qualifying solicitors before joining a firm) and in conjunction gained a Master of Science in Law, Business and Management.

I started at Fladgate LLP in September 2022 and my training contract ends in September 2024, at which point I’ll be a qualified lawyer (assuming all goes to plan).

Do you have any career advice you’d like to share?

I’ve had a bit of an irregular career path on the face of it, but I think in this day and age there’s no need to go down a linear route. I absolutely loved my time in marketing, and much like the Management program, the experience I gained during those working years has given me a huge advantage in my current role. All experience is good experience, so make the most out of it. Many of the contacts I built along the way have helped me land where I am.

Beyond the above, I think it’s important to give back where possible. Mentor when you can, and equally seek out people who have done what you want to do and reach out. My dad has had a very successful legal career in Canada and the best piece of advice I received came from him when I moved to London. “In everything you do, do it with integrity. It will always get you far and you’ll sleep better at night’.

Finally, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Most of the opportunities I’ve had (law, marketing, or otherwise) have stemmed from reaching out to people on LinkedIn or attending networking events. If you put in the effort, people will notice. It’s cliché, but you don’t get what you don’t ask for – don’t wait for things to come to you!

What are your future career goals?

I would like to eventually carve out a niche for myself in Environmental & Planning law. With the state of the world being what it is, I want to create positive change and be a force for good.

Do you have anything else you’d like to share?

I absolutely loved my time in the Management program, and UBCO in general. I made some of my best friends there and look back on that time of my life fondly. If anyone has any questions on my career path, or about life in Management/at UBCO more generally, please don’t hesitate to reach out on LinkedIn. My inbox is always open.

What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

Location. Born and raised in (truly beautiful) British Columbia, I moved to the East Coast for my first and second years of university to see the rest of the country, but quickly realized I needed to return. Nothing compares to the mountains and lakes, but more importantly the people and the culture. UBCO was the perfect place for a high-quality education, with a small-town vibe.

What takeaways from the program?  

The realization that a quality education doesn’t necessarily require elaborate programs and flashy marketing. It’s what you make of it, and how hard you work at it. If you want to learn something new, sign up for the class and dedicate the time to comprehend it. If you didn’t like a certain subject, move on, and find a different one. Every decision you make helps inform your career trajectory, and not all decisions are going to end the way you want them to. With a smaller institution like UBCO, you get to know your peers and your professors personally, all of whom help guide your career decision making.

Did you participate in Co-op and if so, can you share your experience?

I was enrolled in the Co-op program and in my third year at UBCO, I attended the UBCO Career Fair where I approached the Husky Energy booth and had a great conversation with one of their representatives. We stayed in touch following the event, and I eventually obtained an 8-month placement with Husky. During my time with the company, I formed strong connections with the team and when I graduated, I continued working for them in Calgary. My time with Husky was extraordinarily beneficial, as it gave me the experience and confidence to move into more challenging positions both inside and outside of the company.

What was the most rewarding part of the program?

In all honesty, the encouragement from the professors and program administrators to explore new things, pose questions, and pursue any career objective I was interested in at the time was truly invaluable. It empowered me to think ambitiously, leading me to apply for a co-op position that I initially believed was beyond my reach. Surprisingly, securing that position kick-started my career more than I had anticipated.

What advice or insight would you give to a prospective student considering the program?

If the Okanagan is where you want to live, attending UBCO is a no-brainer.

What is your current occupation and how did you get there?

I am currently a Senior Project Manager with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. I started my project management career in the private sector within oil and gas where I quickly realized that I love built-environment projects. After relocating back to the Kootenays I struggled to find a project management job while living in Nelson, that offered ample opportunities for growth and advancement.

Fast forward to the COVID era, which reshaped the landscape of remote work. By establishing a connection with a key individual from the Ministry, I secured a position that not only offered substantial growth opportunities, but also provided me with a deep understanding of effective teamwork.

Do you have any career advice you’d like to share?

Build relationships with those around you, and not just with those in your ‘inner circle’. Building and sustaining relationships is a fundamental aspect of most careers. If you can build those connections early on in your journey, strengthening what works and learning from what doesn’t, you will be years ahead of your time. Don’t approach networking solely to advance your position, try and gain experience with different personalities and perspectives – especially those you may not agree with. Inevitably you will find yourself working alongside individuals with different fundamental views during your career, and having prior experience will help tremendously.

What are your future career goals?

To lead a team of people to do great things, manage impactful projects, but most of all, to foster a work environment where people can genuinely enjoy their careers and fulfill the lives they envision for themselves and their families. Finding balance (if there is such a thing) is admittingly challenging, a struggle I personally grapple with. But if I can step away at the end of my career with balance, and with a small group of people that I have genuinely inspired, I would consider that a success. Plus, the pension, my future career goals are tied to a government pension and early retirement.

Do you have anything else you’d like to share?

Put your hand up for new opportunities. Even if it feels intimidating or you don’t think you’re qualified, put your hand up anyways. Life has a way of unfolding in unexpected ways when you are open to embracing new challenges.

Q: What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO?

A: Throughout high school, I knew getting a business degree was the direction I wanted to follow. I chose UBCO specifically for its reputation and location. Having come to Kelowna almost every summer growing up, I got to experience everything the Okanagan has to offer, which influenced my decision to choose UBCO.

Q: What have been your biggest takeaways from the program so far?

A: My biggest takeaway is how essential teamwork is in the management program as it diversifies thought and enables individuals with different skill sets to tackle real-world challenges. Post-grad, the importance of teamwork is more pronounced as people will face many challenges in the workplace.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?

A: The most rewarding part of the Management program is the incorporation of real-world case studies into our group work. This gives management students different perspectives on various markets and cultural diversity, which is extremely valuable. The projects were led by knowledgeable professors which ultimately served as a learning opportunity.

Q: What advice or insight would you give to a prospective student considering this program?

A: The advice I would give a future Management student is to stay active in building a professional network by attending events across campus, joining a club or connecting with professors.

Q: Where is your current co-op placement and what is your role with that company?

A: I am completing my final co-op term with ESD Simulation here in Kelowna. I am working alongside the sales and marketing teams where I perform updates on social media platforms, changes to the website, write blog posts, and act as a first point of contact for current and potential customers.

Q: What have been the greatest benefits of the co-op program?

A: The greatest benefit of the co-op program is career exploration. The exposure to different fields helps guide a job choice post-graduation. Having this co-op work experience allows co-op students to have enhanced resumes, future employment opportunities post-grad and larger networks in their relevant fields.

Q: Do you have any advice you’d like to share with someone considering doing a co-op?

A: A piece of advice for future co-op students is to take advantage of the diversified opportunities that are offered on the job board. I ended up in a position that was not of initial interest to me, but now I am hoping I will get to return to that position after graduation.

Q: What are your future career goals?

A: My future career goal is to be an entrepreneur in a business that is a leader in innovation, is socially and environmentally responsible and fosters meaningful changes in communities around me.

What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

Back in High School, I was lost in the post-secondary application process. I had no idea of what I wanted to do for a career, but I thought that I would be interested in studying business. As I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to study, completing a commerce degree didn’t make much sense to me at the time. The Management program at UBCO was perfect for me as it offered a large selection of courses which allowed me to gain the experience and knowledge in several business fields. The university also had a great location in a vastly growing region, had much smaller class sizes, and offered great programs such as the Go Global program, different clubs, and work experience opportunities.

What were your biggest takeaways from the program?  

I’d say one of the biggest takeaways for me is the fact that learning never stops. You will find yourself growing and expanding on this information every day and will be able to use it to gain stronger connections with one another.

“Everything that you learn in the program is extremely valuable no matter what you end up doing both inside and outside of your career”

What was the most rewarding part of the program?

The most rewarding part of the program for me was the opportunities to get involved both inside and outside of the university. Whether it be a club, studying abroad, the live case competition, or the co-op program, there is always something for you to be a part of and there are endless opportunities to expand your network.

What advice or insight would you give a prospective student considering the program?

I would say to try to get involved in everything that is offered to you. It may be scary at first but put yourself out there and be a “yes” person – it will pay off at the end of the day. I would also say that everyone in the program wants you to succeed. Seek help when you need it, go to office hours, use the tutoring service, and create study groups. These services are there for you to succeed, so take advantage of them as they will make a huge difference in your time at university.

What is your current occupation and how did you get there?

I am currently working at Highstreet Ventures as a Community Leader. During my last year at UBCO, I decided to enroll in a Diploma program studying Urban Land Economics at the Sauder School of Business where I focused my studies in real estate development. Once I graduated from UBC with both a Management degree and a Diploma, I was still unsure of what I exactly wanted to do. At the time of my graduation, I was serving at a local restaurant, and one of my colleagues connected me with a lady who worked at another Highstreet property. After several conversations with her, I soon learned more about Highstreet with their carbon-free initiatives and their core values and decided to apply to one of their open positions. Not long after, I got the job and have grown to love something that I never pictured myself doing.

Do you have any career advice you’d like to share?

I would say to never say no to an opportunity that results in you growing as a person and to continue to build relationships with those who you meet. It’s easy to say no to opportunities that may come up, especially those that require a lot of time or effort on your part. It is often these opportunities or experiences that make us who we are. There is never harm in saying yes to something that will only make you stronger at the end of the day.

What are your future career goals?

As a young individual working in this industry, there is a lot of room for growth. I plan on continuing to push myself every day, learn from others, continue my education, and continue to build my network.

What drew you to the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO? 

The small classes and intimate learning environment. 

What takeaways from the program?  

How important the accounting and finance classes are when running your own business. 

What was the most rewarding part of the program?

The amazing group environment and some of the excellent faculty we had.  

What advice or insight would you give to a prospective student considering the program?

Use your class time effectively and actually go to class. Take the classes that are most relevant to the real world (ie. finance, accounting, economics, etc.).  

What is your current occupation and how did you get there?

I am the Founder and CEO of Integrated Solar Solutions Ltd. We install residential, commercial & off grid solar systems all over British Columbia. It was kind of a fluke how I founded my own business, but long story short I was working for someone else in the industry and I knew I could do it way better, so I started my own business overnight. 

Do you have any career advice you’d like to share?

Network, network, network. Contacts make contracts.  

What are your future career goals?

To continue to run and grow Integrated Solar Solutions. I have a few other business ideas I would like to get going on as well. 

Do you have anything else you’d like to share?

The Okanagan valley is an amazing place to start and run a business.