McGill University has a rich history and is known for its leadership globally. I was excited about being a part of this legacy and to meet incredible people from all around the world.
With my interest in the sciences, I came to McGill thinking of becoming a doctor, but struggled in my first year to feel excited about the courses I was taking. The tables turned for me when I decided to take courses in strategy and accounting. Ultimately, I decided to pursue business, and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce. I’m now an entrepreneur and my McGill career helped me find my footing as I explored the business world and took courses in entrepreneurship and participated in internships and competitions, all of which were very formative experiences.
My degree helped me build a strong foundation for my career and helped develop the skills I use in my everyday life. It is important to realize that life is a journey and sometimes it takes several tries to figure out what one is truly passionate about. This is what university is for – exploring courses, interacting with professors and fellow students, studying abroad, doing internships. These formative years and explorations are where we learn about ourselves and how I learned to build something meaningful. McGill really supported me in this growth.
Not only was McGill a remarkable university, but the city of Montreal is also an example of a global multicultural community that really adds to the university experience. Montreal and the culture that I was immersed in enhanced my education and my outlook on life.
My advice to students would be to listen to what excites you and piques your interest. You are responsible for your own journey – don’t be afraid to try new things and fail as it will ultimately help you find your true passion. Go along your path and at your own pace – there is no one way of doing things. Most importantly, focus on yourself and focus on the impact you want to have. If you surround yourself with people who inspire you, motivate you and support you, whose values align with yours, you will continue to learn, grow, and thrive. After that, everything else comes easily.
McGill gave me the time and space to figure out what I was interested in and to explore it. In the supportive environment, I built lifelong friendships and networks with people from across the globe. McGill challenged me and the core foundations of who I was and then transformed me into who I am today. In other words, McGill broke me and rebuilt me, and I’m so glad it did.