Kickstarting my MSc International Business program at Ivey in January 2022 seems like one of the best decisions of my life. Though every decision comes with its own challenges and downfalls, I believe that it is all part of the learning process. Being an international student, it wasn’t a childsplay to settle according to the new country’s culture and standards. Having more than 16 cultures in the same classroom, I learned how to function in a multicultural and dynamic environment. It feels like everybody brings in their unique insights to the classroom making it an enriching and experiential platform for each student.
I remember making up my mind to nominate myself for the MSc Association’s Co-President’s role. It was a challenging task since I was nervous to gain the support of students from different parts of the world. I wasn’t sure what communication and collaboration techniques would be appropriate to build sustainable relationships within the cohort. Ivey taught me that you must come up with a mindful attitude and openness to varied perspectives of people because not everyone has the same set of principles. Having said that, you need to build meaningful relationships that are not only for the sake of your own good but for everyone. Ensuingly, I was able to win the elections and assumed the role. The school has provided me with such a platform where I have to push myself out of my comfort zone that will not only equip me with the required skill set, but also make me better as a person.
Starting the journey virtually on Zoom was quite different for me since I completed my undergrad back in 2019, when everything was in-person. Nevertheless, it was still a heuristic experience because of the case-based method taught by pioneers in the classroom. Starting in-person classes in February 2022, I finally got a chance to connect with all my classmates and realized that nobody was less. Everyone brought something to the table and had their own distinctive traits from which you could learn. Also, Ivey’s hive-like alumni network helps each student connect with professionals working in different industries, around the globe.
To sum up, these 120 days escalated quickly while teaching me a lot. I can feel a positive change in my personality and attitude that would’ve not been possible without Ivey. Looking forward to the second semester when I’ll be visiting Bangkok, Thailand for the Ivey Global Lab from May-July. I aim on converting the teachings out-of-class with international exposure at Ivey Global Lab.