We’re incredibly proud of the close to 2,200 people who earned the privilege of walking across the stage at the university’s Spring Convocation ceremonies on June 20, 21 and 22 at the Winspear Centre, including our students from the School of Business.
“Congratulations to the Class of 2023 on your graduation!” says Dr. Richard Perlow, dean, School of Business. “You and your fellow graduates had a particularly challenging time getting your education due to COVID and lockdowns. The fact that you are here today is a testament to your resilience and determination. You will find that those two characteristics will serve you well in your career and life. I wish you all the best.”
Here, students from the School of Business look back at their time at MacEwan and share their plans for the future.
Eden Choi
Bachelor of Commerce, Supply Chain Management
As an immigrant student, I didn’t know how to prepare for university – when to start applying or how to prepare for the future. When I was accepted at MacEwan, I doubted myself a lot because I didn’t know what I wanted. But sometimes you must experience something to see if you like it or not. Luckily, I went to MacEwan, and I liked it!
My most memorable times in university were whenever I was with my friends at school: studying overnight at the library for exams, eating lunch at the cafeteria, finding empty rooms for study, going to Fall Fest and a lot more! I also completed a 12-month co-op placement in a procurement department. All the experiences I had during that time helped me a lot to understand how businesses in the real world operate, and to help me prepare for life after graduation.
During COVID, like many students, I was burned out, depressed and overwhelmed. Sometimes I had to discuss my mental and emotional health with the instructors, and all of them were understanding and cared about me. One of my co-op instructors comforted me by saying “be nice to you,” which touched my heart so much. Life cannot always be certain. If you are uncertain, it’s okay. Give it a try. And, more importantly, be nice to yourself and others.
After finishing my classes, I took some time to give myself a rest. I went to Vancouver, travelled in Europe, and have recently come to the Northwest Territories for a mission trip. Next, I will be looking for positions that are related to my studies and I hope that I can exploit and develop the knowledge and skills that I acquired at MacEwan!
Brian Gulbraa
Business Management Diploma
Dean’s Medal for Academic Excellence (Certificate/Diploma)
After I graduated from high school, I was preparing to start school for what I thought was the career I wanted. Immediately after orientation, though, I realized it wasn’t for me. I followed my instincts and withdrew. This turned out to be the best decision I could have made. The time off gave me an opportunity to truly think about what I wanted to do. When that year ended, I began the business management program at MacEwan and never looked back.
I had three classes on my first day, and to my surprise, each one was better than the last. The professors were engaging, the content was interesting, and I felt like I was in the right place. I still remember driving home, knowing that I’d made the right decision, and looking forward to going to class the next day.
The people who inspired me the most during my time at MacEwan were the friends I made. We worked through group projects, stressful finals weeks and what felt like never-ending midterms together. Seeing how hard they worked, the improvements they made and how much they cared about anything they worked toward inspired me to do the same. I wouldn’t have had the success that I did without them.
I still have to figure out exactly what the future holds for me. For now, I’ve decided to ladder my studies into the Bachelor of Commerce program and major in accounting, starting this fall. After that’s complete, I hope to work on getting my CPA, but my ultimate goal is to start my own business. One step at a time, and we’ll see what happens.
Jeszelle Macabanti
Library and Information Technology Diploma
My aunt sent me a MacEwan ID lanyard when I was still back in the Philippines. One time when I was wearing it, someone asked me if it was my school. I said no, but in the back of my mind, I thought, "Someday I will be studying in this school.” I have always felt connected to MacEwan, like I was destined to be here.
I already had a bachelor's degree in education when I arrived in Canada, and libraries have always played a significant role in my learning. That’s why I decided to pursue the Library and Information Technology program. It was overwhelming initially, as I delved into the world of libraries and learned about their role in society. However, my practicum experience was the highlight of it all. My passion for helping others gain insight into what libraries can offer made my practicum immensely worthwhile.
The defining moment of my time at MacEwan will be walking across the stage to receive my diploma and telling myself that I did it! Finding balance in all the chaotic moments (studying, working, family) in my life over the past two years is the beauty that I find priceless.
There are four people (mom, two grandmas and an aunt) who are dear to me that I lost before I acquired my diploma. Losing them was my weakness, yet it gave me a different kind of strength to continue my life and overcome all the challenges I encountered. Now that I'm graduating, I dedicate all my hard work and success to them (also to my family and my purple hearts). I hope I have made them proud.
Lindsay Selinger
Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing
I went into business because I didn’t know what I wanted to “be,” but I knew I wanted to go to school in order to prepare myself for the future. Business interested me – specifically branding. MARK 301 was the first marketing class I ever took, and the professor, Alysha Hachey, made the class entertaining and connected. She was the best professor I had throughout my degree and a big reason why I am where I am today!
In 2021, I landed a summer internship as an operations manager with Amazon. I ended up relocating to one of their Toronto fulfillment centres for three months, and once I was done with the internship I was offered a full-time position when I graduated. I appreciated that offer, but I realized that I needed to have a creative outlet.
I remember speaking to another manager at Amazon who told me about a friend who did graphic design. It sounded so fun that I found myself taking extra design courses from MacEwan’s School of Continuing Education after I graduated. I am now a freelance designer for social media and branding. My plan is to continue to grow my business and travel (I work remotely now).
I think that often people who say that they have no idea what they want to be actually do know, they just aren’t listening to themselves. I loved drawing growing up. I took painting lessons and art classes. I have always been a creative person, but I felt like I needed to grow up and get a “real” job. However, using our passion – what we enjoy doing and what we are good at – to our advantage can mean finding your perfect place in the business world. I did.
Jewel Zahr
Bachelor of Commerce, Management/Legal Studies in Business
There are several reasons why I am truly passionate about my field of study – management and legal studies. First, my love for socializing and collaborating with others made pursuing a career in management a natural choice. Witnessing my parents successfully run their own business ignited my interest in commerce and motivated me to gain in-depth knowledge in managing and leading organizations. And finally, my profound curiosity about the legal system led me to delve into the intricacies of legal studies. Learning about laws, regulations and the principles that govern our society has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate within legal frameworks, ensuring compliance and ethical practices.
During my time at MacEwan, I had the privilege of encountering an individual who truly inspired me and made a significant difference in my academic journey. Dr. Charles Keim, a remarkable professor, stands out as a source of unwavering support and guidance. He fostered a sense of confidence within me. When I faced moments of doubt, Dr. Keim offered exceptional mentorship, and provided me with impactful advice that helped me navigate challenges and find my path. His impact on my educational experience was profound, and I am grateful to have had him as a source of inspiration.
Now, as I embark on the path to pursue my passion for law, I find myself fully immersed in intensive LSAT preparation while simultaneously working diligently at my family's esteemed car dealership, Car West. I envision myself attending law school in the upcoming year, and I’m eager to embark on a new chapter that aligns with my career goals and personal interests.