I knew during high school that I wanted to attend university. While touring campuses, I realized that I yearned to have a personal connection with the institution I chose. When I decided on McGill, I listened to my gut and it felt absolutely right!
McGill was the perfect fit for me because it encouraged autonomy. I was propelled to find my own way and to get a little messy as I navigated my education. As a result, I learned to tolerate uncertainty and embrace the chaos.
Looking back on my university experience, several things stand out, but it’s the people who are the most memorable. While earning my two McGill degrees, I met individuals who not only challenged me but treated me with kindness. I needed a mixture of both to grow. They helped me build my confidence and humility through friendly classroom competition, insightful lectures on current research and explorations of Montreal’s hotspots. It was invaluable spending time with and learning from such extraordinary students and instructors, and in a city that only enhanced what I was acquiring on campus.
Figuring out what I ultimately wanted to do was a challenge. I was unwilling to settle for a career that was just “OK.” I wanted the work I did to feel deeply authentic and impactful. I was committed to living a phenomenal life with entrepreneurship at its core.
For students eager to follow a similar path, I encourage you to keep exploring until you find it. Many people around you will encourage you to settle and “be realistic.” If you want to embrace your own authentic journey, there are three key things you must do.
First, develop your intuition. When you encounter a new exciting person or opportunity, check in with yourself and ask whether the opportunity is truly for you. The answer will be there. If it is yes, go for it. If no, seek a different direction even if others tell you to take what you can get. There are many opportunities, and with a McGill education you’re well positioned to find them.
Second, experiment. Always ask if there’s a better way of doing something. Once you find it, tell others. Listen to their feedback without defensiveness and continue to improve. Build a better mousetrap. It will sometimes be uncomfortable, but learn to embrace that discomfort.
Third, ask. When you have an idea or want something, ask. When looking for a job, ask for what you want, knowing that you might not get it. Create a job from scratch if the right one doesn’t currently exist, but make the case by explaining how valuable the new role will be for your employer. Challenge others, knowing that you will often hear no. Remember: each no brings you closer to yes.
After earning my Law degree, I was watching the television show Shark Tank and thought it would be a fun experience to work for the show. Through my McGill network, I was introduced to the right person and ultimately was hired as a deals advisor to one of the Sharks. My dream came true because I asked!
Now, I’m really happy with what I do. As a CEO coach, I help business leaders understand and realize their potential while developing their businesses. I have learned that growth requires comfort with uncertainty and I will always be grateful to McGill for nurturing those aspects of myself.