Louisa (Lulu) Asselstine

Where are you from? What high school did you attend?

I’m from Doha, Qatar and I attended the American School of Doha for high school.

What was your Program of Student for Years 1 and 2?

Honours Specialization in Politics, Philosophy and Economics (Concentration in Economics)

List your Extra-curricular involvement in the first two years of university.

Why did you choose Ivey’s HBA program?

I chose Ivey for a variety of reasons. In addition to the world-renowned academic reputation and unique case-based learning, I was extremely drawn to the community that Ivey curates. The opportunity to push myself out of my comfort zone and explore my career interests in a welcoming and diverse community affirmed to me that Ivey was the perfect place for me to grow and make life long meaningful connections. 

Describe one highlight of your Ivey Experience thus far.

The highlight of my Ivey Experience has been the people. Whether that be the professors or my peers, Ivey has curated an accepting and energetic community that will both push you and ensure you feel like you belong. Furthermore, the ability to learn from such intelligent and driven people is incredibly inspiring and continues to motivate me and pursue my goals. 

What advice do you have for incoming HBA students?

Never forget you belong here! Ivey may seem daunting at first, and the experiences people have prior to Ivey may make you feel overwhelmed, but always remember that you have done the work and Ivey chose you for a reason. We all have different pasts and purposes to be at Ivey, and you must focus on getting the most out of this opportunity, rather than succumbing to self doubt. 

How has Ivey’s Career Management team set you up for success?

Coming from a non-business background, navigating the recruiting process initially felt uncertain. Ivey’s Career Management team has been an invaluable resource, helping me refine my interview skills, craft strong cover letters and resumes, and build my network. Their support has equipped me with the tools and confidence to pursue opportunities effectively, and I’m incredibly grateful for their guidance.

What kind of support did you find the mcost helpful with the intense curriculum in HBA1?

I found the support of my peers the most helpful. It was comforting to talk to people I trusted ad who were experiencing the same challenges for the first time. Sharing advice, strategies, and encouragement not only made the process less daunting but also fostered a sense of camaraderie that I truly appreciated.

What has been the most challenging part of the program for you and how did you overcome it?

The initial first months were definitely the most challenging. Adjusting to the new onslaught of school work, recruiting, and social activities is overwhelming at first but definitely gets easier with time. I also think its important to self reflect and remember what is important to you, as it is easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing and stress over something you are not necessarily passionate about. 

How has Ivey helped you become a leader and make an impact on the world around you?

Ivey has helped me develop a leadership style rooted in empathy, adaptability, and collaboration. Through case-based learning, teamwork, and engaging discussions, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about authority—it’s about understanding others, listening actively, and creating an environment where everyone can succeed. The experiences and challenges I’ve faced at Ivey have prepared me to lead with confidence and make a meaningful impact in the world around me.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I am not fully sure yet. I plan to explore data analytics during my summer internship, and if I enjoy that, will explore opportunities in that field. A long-term goal of mine though is to have a job that allows me to travel and explore business cultures around the globe.