How did you get to where you are today?  

I got my start through SFU’s strong Actuarial Science program, which allowed me to complete some preliminary SOA exams before graduating and benefit from close support due to the program’s small size. Summer internships and the SFU alumni network helped me secure an internship opportunity in Toronto, where I was able to prove myself and transition into a full‑time, permanent role. From there, being disciplined with actuarial exams to become a fully qualified actuary, taking on increasingly challenging work, and learning from strong mentors played a major role in my growth into my current position.

What is something that helped you along the way?  

One of the biggest things that helped me along the way was being surrounded by very driven and motivated peers and colleagues, which pushed me to continually improve. I was also fortunate to work at a company that provided strong opportunities early on, including presenting to senior management even at a junior analyst level, which accelerated my professional growth and confidence.

What is something that challenged you?  

One of the biggest challenges I faced early in my career was balancing actuarial exams with the demands of a full‑time job. Managing study time alongside work responsibilities required a high level of discipline, prioritization, and long‑term planning. While it was demanding, this experience helped me build strong time‑management skills and resilience that continue to benefit me today.

What is your top tip for current international students?  

My top tip for current international students is to join a co‑op program and take advantage of as many co‑op opportunities as possible across different companies and areas of the profession. This not only helps you build experience but also gives you clarity on what type of work and environment suits you best. In addition, consider applying to full‑time roles at global companies or in locations that serve as international hubs, as this can open up significantly more opportunities, enable collaboration with international colleagues, and potentially lead to global mobility and travel.

How did you get to where you are today?

Being an engaged student at SFU really helped me get to where I am today. It exposed me to the skills, friendships, community networks, and opportunities that every international student needs. Your grades are important, but your extracurriculars are just as important as your grades.

What is something that helped you along the way?

Having a coachable mindset has really helped me along the way. It was so valuable to be intellectually humble and open to learning new skills and experiences. It's important to realize that you don't have all the answers, but someone else might have the solution to your problem. You just need to find them by showing up at the right places.

What is something that challenged you? 

My first time running for student government at SFU, I was unsuccessful. However, that in itself was a much-needed learning and character-building experience. It was important to live and learn that things might not always go according to plan, but it is important to keep it going through different avenues and remain dedicated to the mission.

What is your top tip for current international students? 

University goes beyond the classroom, what you do outside of it can be just as much of a defining experience. Get engaged in the campus community — I can not stress this enough! Show up at events (or organize one yourself!), run for student government, join a student club, say hello to that classmate next to you in the lecture hall, drop-in to your Prof/TA's office hours to discuss the assignment, and live true to the SFU tagline "Engaging the World".

How did you get to where you are today?

When I first came to SFU, I was a shy international student who mostly stayed in my dorm room. What helped me come out of my shell was applying for a Community Advisor role in Residence. What started as an opportunity to gain income became an invaluable experience that gave me the confidence to connect with the broader SFU community and make the most of my degree.

I’ve always believed that trying something new and stepping outside my comfort zone will benefit me in the long run. With that mindset, I explored different opportunities - volunteering as a research assistant in a Psychology lab, mentoring new international students, and participating in a work-study program to gain exposure to work in an office setting. Through these experiences, I was able to figure out what I liked and disliked. I also learned that I am the type of person who needs a job that fulfills me, and through all these experiences, I discovered what truly resonated with me: supporting students.

As I was getting close to graduate, I started feeling quite overwhelmed. I didn’t have any family or friends who graduated before me that could help me find my career possibilities. I decided to meet with a career educator from SFU Career and Volunteer Services to reflect on my strengths and clarify my next steps. Those few meetings and conversations helped me narrow down my options and begin researching career paths with greater confidence and focus.

What is something that challenged you? What is your top tip for current international students?

Our world and realities have shifted over the past decade since I graduated from SFU. What helped me navigate challenges in the past may no longer be relevant for international students today.

However, one thing I believe will never change is the importance of taking one step at a time. Sometimes that step may be smaller than we initially imagined because life often brings challenges in unexpected ways. Nevertheless, I firmly believe that as long as we continue reflecting and identifying the very next step, we will keep moving forward despite the changes happening around us. At least, this mindset is what helps keeping me grounded.

Something I also continue to practice is self-compassion - reminding myself that I did my best and that I am only human when life is challenging. When things don’t go the way I planned, I try not to be too hard on myself. Instead, I take a deep breath, reflect on the options at hand, do thorough research, and choose the best way to move forward.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” - Maya Angelou

I really appreciate this quote from Maya Angelou because it encourages us to try our best, but it also has a forgiving element that allows us to be human and reminds us that our best is enough.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to reach out for support from the SFU community and access available resources. As a student, I accessed almost all SFU resources, such as SFU International Services for Students, Health and Counselling Services, Career and Volunteer Services, and many more. I think that having my own network of support at SFU is one of the reasons I was able to successfully complete my degree because when I felt worried and overwhelmed, I already knew where to go to receive support and guidance. At the end of the day, it is my life, and there are parts that I have to resolve and work on. However, having people provide guidance and a second or third perspective was really helpful.

How did you get to where you are today?

Many factors contributed to where I am in my career now. My time at SFU allowed me to embrace the diverse opportunities that any student can get involved in. This includes my volunteer experience with FASS Mentorship, the Psychology Student Union, and the Helping and Happiness Lab, where I was able to hone my skills through a diverse range and find genuine connections with friends and colleagues. Being a CSW helped contribute to my immigration goals but also my career path as an initial step to hopefully becoming a Registered Clinical Counsellor.

What is something that helped you along the way?

The community and friends I created for myself through my involvement. Everyone I know from my time at SFU were always an amazing support for me during the good and bad times. They really got me through the daily study sessions whenever I wasn’t in class or at work.

What is something that challenged you?

While I loved volunteering, it definitely was a time management mountain especially since I would want to put my best foot forward with everything I did on top of my classes and work. This is especially the case when I was PSU President and leading recruitment for lab research projects. The best way I worked through this was always having a priority list for all my tasks based on class/union/lab which helped me stay focused on each task at a time.

What is your top tip for current international students?

Get involved with the SFU community!! The opportunities that SFU has to offer truly is the best way to expand how far you can apply yourself but also explore what you do like and don’t like. Without putting myself out there, I wouldn’t have found the amazing friends I made and or have fully understood what opportunities are available after graduation that really work for me.

How did you get to where you are today?

There were a few turning points in my journey. When I started my psychology degree at Simon Fraser University (SFU), I assumed I would become a clinical psychologist — it felt like the expected path for many psychology students. But through conversations with mentors and honest self-reflection, I realized that what truly drives me is helping people navigate important life decisions.

That realization broadened my perspective. I discovered there are many ways to make an impact, which led me to take on student support roles at SFU and eventually step into my current role as an Academic Advisor at Douglas College. Sometimes growth comes not from following the expected path, but from redefining it.

What is something that helped you along the way?

One of the most important things that helped me was having the courage to ask for help. Moving to a new country and navigating a new academic system can feel overwhelming and isolating at times. However, I learned that the community at SFU truly shows up for its students. I can say that not only as a former international student, but also as someone who later worked at SFU.

On a personal level, resilience carried me forward. I often reminded myself: never out of the fight. To every international student — choosing to study in a new country already proves your courage. You are stronger than you think.

What is something that challenged you?

One of the biggest challenges I faced — and one I believe many international students experience — was building meaningful connections and figuring out my career direction in a new country. It’s not always easy to know where you belong.

Getting involved in the SFU community changed that for me. Volunteering with SFU Career and Volunteer Services for nearly two years helped me build genuine relationships, gain clarity about my interests, and ultimately inspired me to pursue advising. Having personally experienced the impact of supportive advisors at SFU, I realized I wanted to create that same impact for others.

What is your top tip for current international students?

Start early. Build connections before you need them. Don’t underestimate the power of informational interviews and volunteering. Most importantly, believe that you belong here — your perspective and background add value.

Small things matter, and they add up over time. Attending classes consistently, connecting with your professors, teaching assistants, and advisors at SFU may seem minor in the moment, and you might even hear that they’re not important. But trust me, they matter. Those conversations and relationships can shape your confidence, clarity, and opportunities in ways you may not immediately see.

Your time at SFU will be more than just earning a degree — for many of you, it’s where you step into adulthood and begin figuring out who you are and what truly matters to you. The SFU community is incredibly supportive, and I wouldn’t pass on the opportunity to learn from and seek guidance from the people around you. At the core, be yourself — because that is your greatest strength.

How did you get to where you are today?

It’s a mix of a bunch of things—hard work, networking, dedication, right place/right time, and community. I took advantage of the co-op program at SFU; I maxed out my co-op terms and tried different roles with each one. That’s how I learned what I liked and what I didn’t. A couple of turning points for me were a co-op where I realized I cared more about X than Y. I also got comfortable with rejection early on; every “no” sent me back to my resume, portfolio, and interview prep to tighten things up.

I went to a bunch of networking events at SFU, which connected me with like‑minded people and mentors I could get advice from. I made a habit of following up, asking for honest feedback, and staying in touch—those relationships opened doors later. I said yes to coffee chats, meetups, and the occasional volunteer gig or a club role, which helped me build community and learn the stuff you don’t get from a textbook. I took on leadership roles with SFU Surge and the Indian Student Federation, and I worked as a Community Advisor in residence. Being part of those communities made me feel like I belonged—they were my people. I made some great connections who showed up for me when I needed it, and I got to show up for them too. And while timing helped, I tried to be prepared when opportunities showed up.

What is something that helped you along the way?

It was a mindset more than anything: just keep at it. I had a really hard time finding my first co‑op—I applied to 150+ roles before I got my first interview, and I ended up landing the job. Going from a part‑time job to a professional tech role felt daunting, so I focused on what I could control: keep showing up, keep learning, and keep asking questions. I asked for feedback at the end of every interview and took notes, then used that to tighten my resume, adjust my stories, and practice the parts I stumbled on.

Once I started, everything was new, but I leaned into it—admitted when I didn’t know something and asked for feedback early. My manager was huge in boosting my confidence, and the team was incredibly supportive. That first co‑op turned into an amazing experience and made me feel like I could make it in the tech industry.

Studying in a group helped a ton, too. We’d argue over math problems, debate which algorithm worked better, and, honestly, spend too long deciding what pizza to order. Learning from other people’s mistakes, sharing shortcuts, and having folks to grind with kept me motivated throughout the semester. It made the complicated stuff feel lighter and a lot more fun.

What is something that challenged you?

Speaking up in meetings was a big challenge for me, mostly because of imposter syndrome. I’d stay quiet, worrying I’d ask a “basic” question or say the wrong thing. To get past it, I set small goals: have at least one update or question ready for each meeting, write down my points beforehand, and follow up in chat or email if I didn’t get a chance to speak. I also paired with teammates, asked for feedback early, and kept a simple “wins” log so I could remind myself I was contributing.

I changed how I asked questions, too—more like “Here’s what I’m seeing; am I missing anything?” instead of trying to sound perfect. Over time, that helped me realize most people appreciate clear thinking and honest questions. The lesson for me was that confidence comes from reps, not from knowing everything. Speaking up builds trust, and asking good questions moves the work forward. Once I treated meetings as a place to learn and contribute (not perform), the imposter feelings eased and it got a lot easier to participate.

What is your top tip for current international students?

Use the resources SFU has to offer. Start with Career Services and Career Peers—get your resume reviewed, do mock interviews, and learn how co‑op recruiting works. Visit International Student Services for immigration questions, workshops, and community. Talk to your profs: drop by office hours, share what you’re interested in, and ask for advice or a referral to a project.

Join clubs and student societies. Volunteer a little. Say yes to group projects—it’s an easy way to make friends and build confidence. Go to events, set up coffee chats, and follow up. Ask for help early: use tutoring and writing support, and book counseling if you need it. You’re already paying for these resources, so use them. Find a small circle, be kind to yourself, and keep showing up—you’ve got this.

How did you get to where you are today?

Hard work and perseverance have been fundamental to my journey. I also believe that networking has played a pivotal role in shaping my career path. Stepping outside of my comfort zone was especially important. When I first started university, I found networking events intimidating and felt uncomfortable initiating conversations with new people. However, I made a conscious effort to attend these events and gradually build my confidence. That decision ultimately led to securing my first internship, which became a critical stepping stone in my career.

What is something that helped you along the way?

A key contributor to my growth was the support I received from the Career Management Centre at SFU. Before every interview, I scheduled mock interview sessions with career advisors, which significantly improved my confidence and overall performance.

Additionally, participating in a study abroad semester at Bocconi University in Milan broadened my perspective. It helped me develop a global mindset and gain exposure to diverse cultures, which has been invaluable in both my personal and professional development.

What is your top tip for an international student?

My advice to international students is to actively explore opportunities and get involved in activities that genuinely interest you. University is a time to experiment, learn, and grow beyond academics.

Networking is equally important. Build meaningful connections with the people you meet, as you never know which relationship may open doors in the future. SFU offers a wide range of clubs that cater to various interests and career paths, and engaging in these communities can significantly enrich your experience.

Lastly, take full advantage of the university’s resources, including the Co-op Department, Career Management Centre, and International Exchange Centre. These services are designed to support international students and can play an important role in both academic and professional success.

How did you get to where you are today?

My journey has not been linear. I started as a business student in high school before transitioning to psychology at SFU, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made. The “what ifs” keep me going. They push me to explore, take risks, and see what I’m capable of.

In my second year, I joined the Attention, Memory, and Perception Lab and the Helping and Happiness Lab. I also worked as a peer mentor, a Behaviour Interventionist, and served as Vice President of Events in the Psychology Student Union. These experiences helped me figure out what I enjoy, what I’m good at, and the kind of people I like working with.

What is something that helped you along the way?

Community made all the difference for me. As cheesy as it sounds, my biggest supporters were my parents, the friends I made at SFU, and my cousins. They were always there to remind me I was not alone and encouraged me to keep going. I also learned the importance of asking for help, whether it was from professors, TA’s, or peers.

Getting involved on campus helped me build confidence and find my path. I took on directed studies, even though it was outside my comfort zone, to get hands-on experience with research without delaying my graduation. Through that experience, I learned how to analyze data, write reports, and run my own projects and it also helped me realize that my true interest lies in counselling psychology rather than clinical work. Hence, saying yes to opportunities and having a strong support system are what helped me get to where I am today.

What is something that challenged you?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was dealing with uncertainty, especially as an international student in an unconventional field of study, figuring out career paths, immigration, and long-term stability. It was overwhelming at times, trying to plan for the future in a system that was completely new to me. I found it helpful to focus on what I could actually do: gaining experience, building skills, and asking questions whenever I needed guidance. Over time, I started to see uncertainty not as something to fear, but as a natural part of figuring things out.

What is your top tip for current international students?

Go to office hours!!! I cannot stress this enough.I know it can feel a little intimidating at first, especially if you are still getting used to a new academic system or worried about saying the “wrong” things. But honestly, some of the best opportunities I had at university started there.

I started going to office hours in my second year, and I got into one of my labs through a connection I made there.You never know where a conversation might lead. Even if it does not create an opportunity right away, it can help you build connections, gain confidence, and make you feel like you belong. Talking to people whenever you can, whether peers, advisors, or even another student on the bus, that can make a bigger difference than it might seem. For example, I learned about SFU offering counselling minor from a casual chat with someone on the bus.

Lastly, talking to advisors before picking courses was a lifesaver.  It helped me plan my schedule and finish my degree ahead of time, all while gaining meaningful work experience.

One bonus tip:- make sure you truly enjoy these years, so when you look back, you can say you experienced everything fully.

How did you get to where you are today?

Instead of rushing into internships early on, I waited until my fourth year to truly discover what I loved before pursuing co-op opportunities in that specific field. At those co-ops, I consistently took on challenging tasks that pushed me well beyond my comfort zone. This journey taught me to never give up and to always follow what my heart gravitates toward.

What is something that helped you along the way?

My co-op mentors and the SFU eCoop program were incredible resources for my development. Additionally, taking the initiative to gain applied AI experience outside the classroom gave me a significant advantage in landing those roles. Above all, maintaining a resilient mindset, trusting that things will pan out and refusing to give up, has been vital.

What is something that challenged you?

My biggest challenges emerged (and continue to emerge) while building my startup, Neishh. Navigating how to truly provide value to our users, gaining market traction, and establishing collaborations with partner businesses are daily hurdles that force me to constantly learn and adapt.

What is your top tip for current international students?

Do something beyond what everyone else is doing. Whether you are aiming to stand out to future employers or trying to attract users to your startup, you need to be unique. Give people a compelling reason to choose you over anyone else.

What is something that helped you along the way?

When I first moved to Canada, I felt lost. I had so much to learn in what felt like so little time. I wish I could tell my younger self that you just need to take the first step; The first step for me was to volunteer. It was through volunteering that I met life-long friends and built professional relationships. It was also a chance to learn more about Canadian work culture while becoming more confident in myself and my skills. My few volunteer experiences led to my first co-op role, and that role led to my second co-op, and ultimately my current job.