I am a born Montrealer, and I believe that McGill University is the epitome of all things Montreal.
The University is open to the world, and provides Montreal with a diversity of people and thoughts that blend so well.
Although it's been a long time since I attended McGill, it’s had a permanent positive impact in my life in so many ways.
I initially chose McGill because I wanted to perfect my English, and for the quality of the program. The beautiful location in the heart of the city didn’t hurt either. My simple desire to study on an historic campus blossomed into more than I ever could have dreamed.
I enrolled in Industrial Relations in the Faculty of Arts, and the program was fantastic. I had access to some of the finest experts in industrial relations covering all Canadian jurisdictions. The Faculty also welcomed internationally renowned teachers who gave me access to a more global view of how work is performed in other countries, which proved valuable early on in my career.
I met students from everywhere, too. Even then, McGill reflected unmatched diversity; I would bump into people from other backgrounds every day. McGill permitted me to test my openness to the world and my curiosity, and it was awesome.
The course offerings were equally diverse, giving me a latitude of choices that became important later in my career. Most notably, McGill allowed me to go to Coventry, UK for three months to conduct a special comparative labour study in an era before formal exchanges were common. Living an international experience while receiving credit was a rare opportunity that allowed me to get a head start in global human resources early on. This helped launch my trajectory into successive senior roles at international companies later in life.
In short, McGill taught me things – both in and outside the classroom – that were very modern and unique at the time, and still relevant today. The university helped me build a real-world, human foundation for my career. So when I was asked to join the School of Continuing Studies’ Faculty Advancement Board, I jumped at the opportunity to work with a passionate and persevering team in support of such a dynamic McGill Faculty.
The School of Continuing Studies makes a tangible difference in people’s lives. I enjoy working on marketing projects that build the School’s brand, increase its visibility, and reach new people in our community.
By disseminating lifelong education, the School is dedicated to the values I hold dear: enhancing individuals’ competencies and knowledge while helping their organizations change, be flexible, and evolve with society. It makes higher education accessible to everyone, which is something special.