Arriving in Canada almost a year ago from Myanmar, I embarked on a remarkable educational journey as an international student pursuing a Master of Science in Business Analytics. Transitioning from a country with vastly different weather and cultural norms has been an enriching experience. I chose Ivey for its distinguished case-based teaching method and its ability to cultivate critical thinking. As I reflect upon my experience thus far, I am grateful for the profound impact it has had on my personal and professional growth.
Building a Strong Foundation
Every class I have taken at Ivey has played a pivotal role in nurturing my critical thinking skills, serving as a fundamental building block for my growth. Each course is meticulously designed to reflect on real-world business and data cases, emphasizing teamwork as an essential component. The collaborative nature of the curriculum encourages us to work effectively in diverse teams, enabling us to embrace uncertainty and adapt to various situations confidently. The experience has taught me the importance of being open to different perspectives and leveraging the power of collective thinking demonstrating that "teamwork makes the dream work."
Expanding Horizons
One of the most transformative aspects of my Ivey experience has been the opportunity to broaden my horizons. Through engaging courses like Big Data Analytics, we are taught to apply statistical and machine learning techniques to derive meaningful insights from data. Additionally, the Systems Thinking course allowed me to work with an actual company to address issues related to food waste, teaching me to think inclusively and identify root causes of problems. Each class has contributed to my personal and intellectual growth, enabling me to think critically and approach challenges from a holistic perspective.
Life-Long Learning
While academic institutions provide the necessary foundation, they do not guarantee absolute preparation for the job market. Recognizing this reality, my experience at Ivey has instilled in me the importance of continuous learning. The program has equipped me with the skills to navigate uncertainties and adapt to changing circumstances, fostering a sense of confidence in my ability to embrace new challenges and opportunities.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
Ivey's inclusive environment, both within the cohort and the extensive alumni network, has been a catalyst for my personal and professional growth. Interacting with students from diverse educational backgrounds, such as engineering, statistics, psychology, and more, has exposed me to a multitude of perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. The program strikes a perfect balance between management and analytical courses, catering to individuals seeking knowledge in both fields. This diversity fosters integration of ideas, encouraging us to expand our horizons and think beyond traditional boundaries.
Prospects and Support
As an international student transitioning from a working professional life to that of a student, I have been grateful for the support and resources offered by Ivey. The MSc Association and various clubs dedicated to entrepreneurship, sustainability, consulting, healthcare, and more have provided ample opportunities to explore and develop a deeper understanding of different fields. These resources have further enriched my learning experience and offered invaluable insights into potential career paths.