Students
Student Perspectives
LBS graduates share their perspectives on the program and explain how it has impacted their personal and professional lives.
When I applied for entry into the LBS program, all I wanted to do was finish my degree. Little did I know that at the end of 3 years, I would be getting more than just a parchment saying I have a Bachelor's degree. Being in a program with supportive and inspiring people ignited my passion for learning. Sure, there were days when going to an 8:30 AM class was difficult after a long week at work, but to me school felt like a sanctuary. It was a reprieve from the craziness that is work because I was always learning something interesting about our world and those around me. And while my time in the program was not without its trials and tribulations, every minute was well worth it because I came out of the experience meeting new friends; learning how to learn; acquiring valuable skills I could take back to my workplace; and most of all realizing that I could really do well in school and in life if I put my mind to it.
—PATRICIA THOMAS > SFU Liberal and Business Studies Graduate, 2007
"There are two components that make this program unique. One is the cohort experience sharing struggles and triumphs, and celebrating our successes as a group. The other feature that I value is the blend of business with humanities. Most organizations are pretty good at providing training and education for technical skills and on-the-job requirements, but the LBS program provides the opportunity for challenging ideas and for experimentation.
A Cornell University Business School study suggests that the most important skills that tomorrow's leaders will need are compassion and teamwork. Spending three years with the same group of colleagues has given me the opportunity to understand the different challenges that face people in different roles and careers. My work environment is so fast-paced that I don't always have, or take, the time to think about the people I work with, but getting to know the students in the cohort has helped me realize how important it is to know and understand the challenges of the people I work with. Group work is a big part of the cohort learning experience. I'm grateful for the opportunity to improve my teamwork skills by continually challenging myself to work with different teams within the cohort."
—TERRI JOHNSON, FCIP > SFU Liberal and Business Studies Program Graduate, 2005
"SFU's Liberal and Business Studies Program provided me with much more than a degree. At the end of three years, I have new knowledge, a broader perspective, a cohort full of good friends, and an interest in learning that will last a lifetime.
When my class was asked during one of our courses to describe the most positive educational experience we'd had in our lives, most of us didn't hesitate: it was this program. Perhaps it's because we're a little older than the average university student, we know ourselves a little better, we've worked in the "real world" for a while—whatever it is, it works. We found ourselves engaged, eager to participate, bold enough to challenge—and even open to changing some long-held opinions.
Of course, it's not always easy. The reading is heavy, the assignments are time-consuming, the concepts can be challenging—and naturally, some courses will interest you more than others. If you're considering the Liberal and Business Studies Program, you'll need self-discipline, unwavering commitment, and supportive family and friends—not to mention 20-25 hours a week, on top of class time, for study!
That said, if you're a mid-career adult, working full or part-time, and you're already set your sights on a Bachelor's degree, SFU's Liberal and Business Studies program will meet your expectations, and more."
—BEV HOLMES > SFU Liberal and Business Studies Graduate, 2002
"The Liberal and Business Studies Program offered at SFU is a chance in a lifetime or adults to complete their undergraduate studies. Having spent two years at SFU in the regular stream working toward my Bachelor of General Studies Degree, I had achieved 90% of my credit requirements. Then I ran into a major stumbling block. I couldn't go any further — the upper division courses were no longer open to me and I found myself with the option of taking any course, just for the credits. By chance, I came across the Liberal and Business Studies program offered at Harbour Centre, and never turned back.
Graduating from the Liberal and Business studies program was a defining moment in my life. I was stretched, challenged, enlightened and proven wrong many a time, but that process only served to enhance my experience and broaden my knowledge and respect for other people's opinions. A differentiating factor and benefit to the program was being able to participate with individuals similar in age and with real world experience. The rewards, however, do not go without many hours of hard work, both individually and in teams. Our cohort was able to learn from excellent instructors and most importantly from each other — a group with diverse backgrounds and invaluable experience. These people are now my good friends.
I believe anyone can achieve this goal with some core ingredients: a willingness to learn, an open mind, cooperative skills to work with fellow classmates and most importantly, an understanding and supportive group of family and friends. I now have the tools to conquer anything put in my path; thanks to this program, my tasks are approached with knowledge and confidence."
—KIM BREAKELL MECH > SFU Liberal and Business Studies Program Graduate, 2002