Student Experience

Learn more about Jasper's experiences:

1. Blog: Beyond Experienced: Never underestimate your experiences
2. Jasper met with SAF to answer questions about his academic and career pathway and goals...
    
   1. What strategies have you implemented to balance your academics, career goals, and community involvement, all while maintaining your physical and mental well-being?

      1. Balancing my academic, co-op, extra-curricular, as well as my mental and physical well-being is definitely a very tough job. But I think the biggest strategy that has helped me throughout the years is just talking to people. I know that reaching out to friends or family can help you talk through your challenges and understand what is going on with your life. Your support network can help ease the load off your shoulder through their understanding and perhaps distracting you by taking you out to a movie, or just relaxing being there for you.
         
         Another good thing with having a great support network is that maybe they can provide some help. There have been times where I’ve been very stressed with school and in talking to my friends, they’ve relieved my stress by saying "Let me help you with that chapter, I can walk you through it because I’ve already studied it." Being courageous enough to reach out to friends and family has helped me throughout the years because I know that I can always rely on other people. And by the same token, I’ve always tried to be there for my friends as well. If they're struggling with balancing their life and academics, I can also be there to help them if they need it. 
         
         Having the courage and to reach out and ask for help has been one of the best ways for me to balance all of these different commitments.

   2. You've visited quite a few countries. How have your travels influenced your academic and co-op experiences?

      1. For leisure, I've traveled to the nine different countries and counting! For my academic pursuits, I've traveled to France and Quebec. Some of my academic travels have taken me to NYC and Vancouver for case competitions in recent years.
         
         Academically, I had participated in the Explore Program, an intensive French language immersion program which takes place at another university in the province of Quebec. Additionally through the University of Waterloo, I was able to secure a month-long exchange program in France, called the Ontario-Rhone-Alpes Student Exchange. I attended the Université de Saint-Etienne, which was located in Saint-Etienne in France. This program also provided French courses (for university credits!), while having the opportunity to be engaged in the local community and explore the surrounding area. 
         
         I would say that my travel experiences made me more of an interesting person, which made it easier to stand out in a conversation. There was a higher chance I could connect with a recruiter on the topic of travelling if I travelled to more countries. I would say that taking trips between terms has definitely helped me refresh my energy levels and kept me mentally fresh, which I think is absolutely critical especially if I had back to back academic terms.

Learn more about Joyce's experiences:

1. Blog: Beyond Disciplines - Not knowing creates opportunities
2. Joyce met with SAF to answer questions about her academic and career pathway and goals...
   1.  How has the AFM program and Waterloo set you up for academic and professional success?
      1. Academically, SAF offers us accounting and finance courses right off the bat. We get a huge breadth of technical business knowledge, as well as a broad sense of the business community so we know what’s going on in the business environment. These are the types of skills and knowledge that our employers are looking for, and are quite impressed with our depth of knowledge and skills we've gained right from first year. So that has given me an academic advantage over a lot of other universities where they don’t really start to specialize or take specific courses in accounting and finance until third or fourth year, where we start off right in first year, which makes AFM students super employable.
         
         Professionally, the university as a whole and SAF has given me a lot of opportunities to build my own professional pathway. They’ve given me a lot of flexibility in choosing when I want to do co-op, what industry I want to do co-op in, and a lot of resources to help me succeed, like mock interviews and résumé critiques and the Waterloo job system as a whole, which I can explore and pick and choose where I want to go and what I want to do next, every 4 months.
         
         Additionally, SAF has held a lot of events where I get to build my professional network and leverage those connections to find a co-op placement that’s right for me.
   2. What are your goals for your next study term and co-op work term?
      1. I was looking to take part in more socially responsible activities or socially active extra-curriculars and when I came back on campus after my second co-op term. I joined a club called UW Blueprint where we make pro bono tech for social good – social non-profits or social ventures and we help them build their business administratively or help further their goal. So one of the companies that we’ve helped is Plastics for Change, which sources plastic from third world countries and then makes it socially responsible and profitable for companies to buy this socially sourced plastic and gives jobs to people in third world countries.
         
         Additionally, I’ve started working with St. Paul’s Greenhouse, which is a social incubator on campus, run by one of the university colleges. They’ve partnered me with Lupus Canada and we’ll be finding ways to help better the lives of people who live with Lupus, and better diagnose their disease to ensure they have a better quality of life.
         
         These are two extra-curriculars that I’m really excited about. My goal is definitely in choosing extra-curriculars that broaden my scope and provide diverse experiences that can build my skills in different ways that will positively impact my career path.
   3. What type of student do you feel would be successful at Waterloo and enjoy the challenge of the AFM program?
      1. There is no doubt that every student in AFM is motivated and likes a challenge.
         
         Someone who would be really successful in the program would not only be motivated and likes a challenge but has a collaborative nature, that likes to help others and help themselves while they’re at it. It’s a very collaborative learning environment, where we’re always sharing, we’re always working together, and we’re building off each other’s ideas, and everyone brings such an interesting perspective and different background and we all learn so much from each other.

The University of Waterloo, School of Accounting and Finance, and CFA Society Toronto are proud to be represented by the 2019 CFA Scholarship winner, Mitchell Ho.

To be eligible for the CFA Scholarship you must be a third or fourth-year undergraduate student currently enrolled in a finance or economics program at an Ontario university. The recipient of this award is given $3000 for being a student who has shown excellence in academics and extracurricular activities. Mitchell possesses these qualities in spades which is why he is very deserving of this honor.

Here is what Mitchell had to say about the CFA Scholarship and the value of an award, going beyond your comfort zone, and his advice to future AFM students.

Learn more about Rena's experiences:

1. Blog: Beyond Experienced - Leveling up through lost luggage and nearly missed flights
2. Rena met with SAF to answer questions about her academic and career pathway and goals...
    
   1. How has the AFM program and Waterloo set you up for academic and professional success?

      1. One way that the School of Accounting and Finance and the AFM program has really helped me in my academic and professional success is through an abundance of mentorship that’s available within the community at the School. 

         Secondly, I also found that there are many extra-curricular activities at the School where I could really apply myself and find myself learning in these roles. One example would be the Fellowship program at the School of Accounting and Finance. I applied to be part of the Fellowship Program in my second year and was accepted. The Fellowship Program really tries to encourage stronger community within the SAF while offering opportunities for students to apply themselves academically in Ambassadorship, Teaching Assistantship, and Research Assistantship roles. So in my most recent role, I am a Research Assistant (RA) and I find myself being able to apply both classroom concepts and concepts that I’ve learned in my co-op role to a cause that I’m actually interested in. My RA role has me actually researching natural disasters and social movements.
         
         Perhaps in the future I might want to contribute my time to a cause that I’m passionate about. I find that really being able to mix the academic, professional, and extra-curricular roles, like being an RA, helps me embody what it is that I want to be in the future and really builds that foundation for me as a professional.

   2. What strategies have you implemented to balance your academics, career goals, and community involvement, all while maintaining your physical and mental well-being?

      1. I have a couple of strategies to maintain my academic, career, physical, and community responsibilities:
         1) I think primarily would be time management. I’ve tried to stay more organized. I write down everything that I have to do or something that I have to remember. These can be specific dates, a to-do list, or even a fitness plan that I want to stick to. I find that writing these things down in a journal or calendar really solidifies your goals and having those goals really ensures that you feel accountable for them.
         2) I’ve also found that journalling for me really helps with managing my mental well-being. I’ve always loved and have been an avid bullet journalist. I find bullet journalling to be a very creative way for me to find some head-space, refresh myself, and relax.
         
         **See the Aspiring Professinals homepage photo as a sample of Rena's bullet journal.**

   3. You've visited quite a few countries. How have your travels influenced your academic and co-op experiences?
      1. Travelling is a great learning experience like any other, so of course, I consider it beneficial for both academic and co-op purposes. 
         
         I find that I've become more independent through my travels and have a stronger propensity to think through problems myself. When you're abroad without any contacts in the country you're visiting and have all of your belongings contained within a single bag, you need to get creative with unexpected problems; many unexpected problems, in my case. I find the experience similar to when I first came to Waterloo on my own, and my travels have made me more mindful of different people and customs.
         
         Plus, travelling always gets me into the right mindset to buckle down into the new term so I always look to book something between school semesters. After all, with a couple of weeks of lugging around suitcases and sprinting to catch trains and connection flights, nothing is better than being able to finally settle down at a desk!

Learn more about Stella's experiences:

1. Blog: BEYOND EXPERIENCE: Rising in the face of failure
2. Stella met with SAF to answer questions about her academic and career pathway and goals...
   1. What strategies have you implemented to balance your academics, career goals, and community involvement, all while maintaining your physical and mental well-being?
      1. University is definitely a balancing act. It’s very different from high school and it’s very different from anything else I’ve ever experienced. With the addition of the co-op aspect of the program, it can be very hard to balance. Of course you want to succeed academically, you want to succeed in your career, you want to be involved with your community, and you also want to make sure that you stay healthy and happy.
         
         It’s a balancing act and its one I’m still perfecting. There are several strategies that I use to balance everything I want to do. I’m a pretty forgetful person so I use the bullet journaling system to write down everything I have to do. Not necessarily in a day but everything that comes up in a day. I can look at my journal and say “Oh I have time to work on a little bit of my resume right now” or “Oh I have some extra time and I have a midterm coming up in a week, I could start to review for that”.
         
         For me, academics and career are at the top of my list of priorities, which can often mean that community and health aspects can get forgotten. I went to Clubs Days at the beginning of my first year and joined the UW Theatre Club. I enjoyed being part of the Theatre Club, but it did mean that I had to work really hard to balance school with this community involvement...hence, the bullet journalling! 
         
         Staying healthy and active is one that I honestly am struggling with the most. Stereotypically, university students are known live off of ramen noodles and three hours of sleep and maybe an extra large Tim’s coffee. But that’s not how it has to be. For me, it means  developing new routines to ensure that I'm going to the gym, reminding myself to eat vegetables every day.
         
         Lastly, my mental health routine is to just give myself some time to unwind and think about ‘where am I?’ Even just once a week, I sit down and ask myself: ‘How am I feeling? How am I doing? Is anything overwhelming me? How can I address that?’ It is a very involved process and it is something that I feel is important in finding the right balance for me.
         
         I’m in the middle of my third year and I’m still learning how to do balance it all. I’m not goinh say it isn’t tough, but it is so rewarding. When you finally feel yourself succeeding and you feel just good about yourself and where you are.
   2. What type of student do you think would be successful in the AFM program
      1. ​There is no one kind of student that’s perfect for the School of Accounting and Finance. We want a diverse student body and not a student body of people who are very introverted or people who are very competitive. We want all different kinds of people because there are all different kinds of careers and possibilities in the fields of accounting and finance.
         
         But, if there are two things that an SAF student should have, it is a very strong inner drive and the resilience to overcome challenges. AFM is a very challenging program and there will be moments where you’re going to need to step back and take a breather. There will be moments when you fail. The difference between someone who succeeds in the program and someone who doesn’t is their ability to deal with failures by composing themselves, looking back, reflecting and saying 'what can I do next?' 
         
         You can’t crumble under failure. In my first midterm I got a 60% and that was devastating to me. But I managed to finish that class with a final mark of 86%. It was a matter of looking back, figuring out what I was doing wrong and then going forward from there. You have to have that drive and belief in yourself as well as the resilience to get through it. You have to keep your eye on the prize and know that two steps forward and one step back is still a little bit closer to your goal.
          

Learn more about Varun's experiences:

1. Blog: BEYOND EXPERIENCED - Global awareness = global opportunities
2. Check out Varun's varsity baseball stats
3. Varun met with SAF to answer questions about her academic and career pathway and goals...
   1. How has the AFM program and Waterloo set you up for academic and professional success?
      I would say the AFM program and the University of Waterloo have set me up for success in a multitude of ways.
      
      1) The biggest factor is the co-op program. The co-op program has allowed me to obtain a placement at oneo fot he big four firms in the field of my interest. I’ve worked there for 4 co-op terms which has allowed me to build my experiences in working with clients, with the work that I do, and as working as part of a team. Upon graduation I know I’ll be returning to the firm with a lot more experience, knowledge and skills in my role. It’s given me a jumpstart on my career essentially instead of starting at step one upon graduation, which is amazing and it really helps essentially move up the timetable I have for my future.
      
      2) The support networks! The professors and staff in the School of Accounting and Finance and at the University of Waterloo is very invested in your success. Professors are keen to get to know you and help you out if you’re willing to put in the time and effort to become a better student and become a better member of the community as well. There are so many different options and resources available to you if you need help with your academics, or even your personal and professional challenges. So with all of the resources that are available to us as well as the opportunities that the University of Waterloo provides us, it really helps us as students maximize our success personally and professionally. You need only to reach out to take advantage of one of these resources.
      
      So I would say with all these resources, opportunities, and co-op at my disposal as a student at the University of Waterloo and in the Accounting and Finance program, its just made it a lot easier to reach my goals and to become successful.
   2. What type of student do you think would be successful in the AFM program?
      The type of student that I feel that would be successful at Waterloo and enjoy the challenge of the AFM program is essentially a well-rounded student.
      
      Well-rounded because if you’re coming into the AFM program at Waterloo you are very likely a very bright student and it’s important to do well in school but it’s also important to have a balance of a multitude of things in your life. If you want to have the best university experience possible, you need to balance your school along with your extra-curriculars and your family and friends. You need to ensure that all of these things have a place in your life. Too much of one thing is never good and that’s why if you’re well-rounded you’re going to be able to successfully navigate the challenges of the AFM program while succeeding in co-op. Chances are, you’ll also have extra-curricular activities that you can turn to when you’re feeling stressed as well as having a good network of close friends that you can reach out to when you need them. I would say that some of the best relationships that I’ve had in my life have been while I’ve been at the University of Waterloo.
      
      So, if you’re a well-rounded student and you’re able to incorporate all these aspects into your university experience, there’s no doubt in my mind that you’re gonna be successful. If you’re that type of student, I feel the AFM student is the perfect challenge for you.

What courses do you enjoy?

My favorite courses are AFM 204, AFM 231, AFM 362, and AFM 363

What are your classes like (class size, professors, etc.)?

Back in first year, we had pretty big classes, with about 150 students in a class. Tip – get a seat in the front; professors aren’t yet familiar with you, so they don’t know people by their names. The higher you go in your education, the smaller the classes become, and the professors become more familiar with the students.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

My number 1 tip is, “make the right friends”. I’m not asking you to be friends with the smartest people in school – that probably wouldn’t be fun. But find people who understand you and encourage you to do better. Another piece of advice would be, ask for help sooner than later. There really is no shame in putting your hand up in class when you do not understand something, chances are there are other folks in the class that have the same question as you. Final tip, grades are not everything really and you are more than a degree on a piece of paper. Remember, the University of Waterloo is like an intersection; you’re not here for long, 4/5 years, so learn, fail, get up and most importantly, move on.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

Honestly, I didn’t know if AFM was the right fit for me. What I knew for sure is that life is what you make of it. So instead of me worrying about if AFM is the right fit for me, I made it the right fit for me. Again, make the right friends.

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year?

There are a couple of things I wish I knew before entering first year. First, comparison is the thief of joy. It may seem like every other person is doing better than you, but that’s not usually the case. Try not to compare yourself to other people; it is hard but still try. Second, do not try to fit a square peg in a circle hole. You do not need to change who you are to become a good fit or to fit in. Just be you, trust me, it’s easier (I would know) Finally, be happy. No matter what you do, make sure you are comfortable and happy. 

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)?

I am involved in a bunch of things on and off-campus. First, I am an ambassador for the University of Waterloo. That means that I give campus tours to both incoming and prospective students like yourself. I am also an executive member of the University of Waterloo Management Consulting Club. Off-campus, I often play basketball and soccer with my friends every other week. It’s very important to have a rounded life and friends while in university.

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

I keep a good work/life balance because of the friends I made. When I say make the right friends, please take it very seriously. My friends encourage me to do other things outside of study. We play sports together and even study together. They are my work/life balance.

Your favourite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends?

I am now in 4th year, so you can guess I personally do not hang out on campus very much anymore. But when I’m on campus with friends, our favorite spot to hang out is the SLC marketplace. It literally has anything you need in the same building. Oh, and also the CIF gym.

Favourite places to hang out in Kitchener-Waterloo?

In Kitchener-Waterloo, my favorite place to hang out is in uptown Waterloo. I can’t say what restaurant or bar I like to frequent exactly because there is a few of them. But uptown Waterloo for sure has all the cool places to hang out in. 

What courses do you enjoy?

I love the new course AFM 112 because I like that it incorporates more data analytical skills. I've never taken an IT course before, and I found learning excel and R were very interesting and very unique compared to our other classes. Also, I love coding, so I got to do a bit of that through this course as well!

What are your classes like (class size, professors, etc.)?

The lectures were relatively big but not large enough for you not to be engaged or disconnected from the professor. On the other hand, the rooms are small enough for you to ask the professors questions very easily. Most of my lectures were 200 people, but AFM has incorporated many seminars and tutorials this year, so those are only around 30 people!

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university? 

Use your agenda or some sort of digital calendar to keep track of tasks and events. It's not like high school, where all the events or assignments happen in one place with the same group of people. Instead, you'll find yourself being pulled in different directions since there's a lot going on. Using some sort of tool to help you organise will allow you to get the most out of the activities that are going on around campus — so you don't miss out!

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year? 

I wish I knew how many opportunities there were coming into the AFM program. I mostly thought it was just accounting and finance. However, there are so many career opportunities and different service lines just within accounting and finance, and there are other opportunities in fields such as data analytics and other industries.

What resources have you used and how has it helped you? 

I think the biggest and most valuable resource is upper-year students. SAF upper-year students are very friendly and have a lot of advice to offer to incoming students. After all, they've been in your shoes, and they know how to help you succeed. So take advantage of their knowledge and wisdom — and make new friends along the way!

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UW community, and residence life? 

I have gotten involved in the SAF community through two SAF student organizations, including the Accounting and Finance Student Association. Clubs (SAF or non-SAF) are an excellent opportunity to meet students from other hometowns, programs, and years as well! I am also a residence ambassador, which means that I am a tour guide for prospective students looking to live in residence next year! Being a guide is a great way to practice your communication skills and earn a little money in a fun way!

What's it like living in residence? 

It's a lot of fun, and it makes making new friends a lot easier! I love living on campus because everything is right at your fingertips — the laundry, food, gym, tutoring services, etc., are all provided in or near Waterloo residences. It's a great way to transition into living on your own in future years without throwing you into the deep end right away.

Tips/advice for living in residence? 

Don't spend all your time on your own! Instead, take advantage of all the services and new friendships that the residence experience offers.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)? 

I joined two intramural teams last term — dodgeball and frisbee! It was a lot of fun, and really well organised. I met new people and tried sports that I've never really played before in a fun and non-competitive environment. Of course, there are different levels available for students who are more experienced. But, most importantly, it's really cheap!

How do you keep a good work/life balance? 

I make sure that I use the time in which I'm working as effectively as I can. I usually set my phone aside, so I'm not distracted and try to get as much done as possible while I'm in the zone. If you fluctuate between working and chatting with friends, you're going to take time away from spending quality time with them afterward.

Your favourite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends? 

The plaza near UWP has a lot of good food! It's also a good way to get out of the learning and work environment, so you can set your worries aside for a while.

What courses do you enjoy?

My favorite courses so far have been AFM132 (Introduction to Business Stages) and AFM101 (Introduction to Financial Accounting). AFM132 was a general business course that took a look at different business tools we could use in various careers. AFM101 was a review of high school accounting that was a fun refresher. 

What are your classes like (class size, professors, etc.)?

Lectures tend to be around 150-200 people, whereas seminars are a lot smaller at 50 people max. The professors are very knowledgeable and are extremely approachable, and they genuinely care about our learning and growth. Many of these professors make the content more relatable by incorporating real-life examples and culturally relevant examples that make the courses fun to sit through. Most classes take place in the SAF building, which means we got very comfortable with our surroundings during lectures.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

One thing that really helps with the transition to university is going to social events! The transition is significantly easier when you make friends and find people going through the same thing as you. The transition is the biggest one of our lives so far, so having a support system on campus definitely helps. There are tons of events such as faculty orientations and program orientations that help you get acquainted with other first years. Residences also have tons of events to help you get to know your community better, so definitely take advantage of those! 

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

I knew AFM was the right fit for me because of the co-op aspect it incorporates. Work experience is very important to me, as I know you learn more on the job than you do anywhere else. SAF knows this too, which is why it's incorporated into the very fabric of the program. Additionally, AFM creates opportunities for students to learn more about entrepreneurship as well, which captivated me. 

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year?

I wish I knew that everyone is in the same boat as me. Looking around, it felt like everyone was adjusting to university much quicker than I was. However, once I got to know people and realized that we were all just pretending, I became relieved. Just remember that you are not alone! 

What resources have you used and how has it helped you (academic adviser, student success coach, co-op adviser, faculty, staff, etc.)?

I personally did not reach out to any resources for help. However, I had a lot of upper-year friends from the clubs I joined, and they helped me a lot with the academic and personal aspects of transitioning to university. Academically, they helped me whenever I did not understand an assignment. They also told me the mistakes they made when they were in the first year, so I could avoid them. They helped connect me with even more first years, which eventually helped me extend my network. 

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UW community, and residence life?

Within the SAF community, I have helped around with different events through the SOAP Program. SOAP stands for Student Outreach Ambassador Program. It is a program designed to help high school students understand if SAF is the right school for them. I am also involved in the Fellowship program. 

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

My favorite thing about AFM is the sense of community you feel within the program. Everybody looks out for each other and does their best to help one another. This applies for each year and across years. Upper year students act as mentors to all the first years, and first years all help each other with everything. In SAF you don't feel alone. 

What's the SAF environment like as an AFM student? 

As an AFM student, SAF is very welcoming. They create many social events and sessions to release stress and have a good time with the people in your program. The CPA lounge is also a great place to go chill and get work done. 

What's it like living in residence?

Living in residence is definitely an interesting experience. You learn a lot more about independence and how to manage that independence, as no one is telling you what to do or when to do it. Also, it is nice having your friends just a few doors down and constantly having people to talk to and spend time with. 

Tips/advice for living in residence? 

Set boundaries early on so that there is no confusion on how people are supposed to act during the semester. Additionally, try to give your roommates space to ensure you don't get sick of each other early on. 

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)?

I am involved in the ACE consulting group, a pro-bono student-run consulting group that helps small businesses and start-ups in the KW area. This is a SAF club; however, students from other faculties can also join. I am also a fellowship student and involved with SOAP.

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

Knowing when to stop working is just as important as knowing when to start. For example, I like to block time out of my evening AFTER I'm done studying to hang out with friends. Having social time after work allows me to unwind and get my mind of academics while at the same time getting in the healthy amount of social interaction I need. 

Your favourite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends?

Since my friends are all AFM, we like to hand around in the SAF building, particularly in the lounge. However, we also spend a lot of time at CMH (Claudette Millar Hall), where most of us live. Starbucks is also one of our favorite places, located in STC.

Favourite places to hang out in Kitchener-Waterloo?

The Alley bubble tea is a great place to go when looking for a treat and some board games to play. There is also a board game cafe on Lester, which is really fun for when you want to get away from campus and enjoy some lattes. 

Check out Zaineb's blog on her experience as a peer mentor

 

What courses do you enjoy?

My favourite course throughout undergrad has been: AFM 121, AFM 241 and AFM 433.

What are your classes like (class size, professors, etc.)?

Generally speaking, as you progress in your academic years, your class sizes tend to reduce to allow for more one-on-one interactions with peers and professors. As a 4A student, my class sizes generally range from 40-60 students. Regarding professors, all professors in the SAF are very kind and open to answering any questions you have! Trust me; they don't bite. I specifically really enjoy this as it contributes to a more comfortable study atmosphere.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to University? 

The transition from high school to University is definitely a big one, so it's important to keep yourself organized! University allows you to become more independent and self-efficient, and with this, appropriate time management skills become a must. Always have an organized schedule for upcoming events and assignments/exams. Aside from academics, it's important to make time for things you enjoy and would carry out in high school. Just because you're in university doesn't mean you should stop making time for yourself. This is equally as important as your studies, and taking breaks will allow you to be more efficient come study time.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you? 

I knew AFM was the right for me because I enjoyed business and specifically accounting courses in high school and happened to be good at them too! I knew I wanted to launch my career in the business realm, and what better program than a combined degree in Accounting + Finance to help me achieve this goal.

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year? 

I wish I knew that if you are having a hard time – most likely others are too. Everyone is taking time to adapt in first year, and I wish I would have leveraged this time to meet more new people and make as many friends as possible to help overcome some of those hardships. But, you truly aren't alone!

What resources have you used and how has it helped you?

I frequently connect with faculty and staff, such as my academic advisor, professors, and peers. This has been helpful whenever I've had questions and felt stuck. In addition, the support team within the SAF is truly always there to help.

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UW community, and residence life?

I got involved in the SAF community by participating in many events and clubs and built connections through interactions with my professors and peers. For example, in the past, I've participated in AFSA (Accounting and Finance Student Association), and I was involved with UW Residences as an RA (Residence Ambassador) and Peer Leader.

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

I love that everyone is truly like-minded and driven in building their careers and futures. This motivates me to strive and excel further everyday.

What's the SAF environment like as an AFM student? 

The SAF environment is very home-like and comfortable. Specifically having a dedicated student lounge for students in the SAF allows us to connect on a closer level.

What's it like living in residence?

I really enjoyed living in residence, specifically in the living-learning community, as you get to meet individuals from all backgrounds at any hour of the day! Not to mention there's great food and great sources of entertainment such as pool and other arcade games.

Tips/advice for living in residence?

Step out of your comfort zone and get to know everyone! You'd be surprised how long friendships from residence can last.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)? 

I am currently involved in SOAP (SAF Outreach and Ambassador Program), and I am a TA for various AFM courses. Outside of school, I stay active – I guess you could call me a gym freak!

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

Organization, organization, and more organization! It's all about managing your time and prioritizing tasks to get the most efficient use from your day. Also, a nice sleep schedule helps me rest for the day and get an early start to the morning to make sure I have enough time to do things I enjoy – such as going to the gym.

Your favourite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends?

AHS Starbucks and SCH second floor!

Favourite places to hang out in Kitchener-Waterloo? 

I love exploring anywhere in Uptown! Great restaurants and food.

How did you prepare for co-op (resources used, events attended, etc.)?

I leveraged resources on campus such as mock interviews and resume critiques, and other conferences hosted by SAF to aid in launching our career. Above all, I leveraged my network of experienced upper-year students whom I was introduced to through various on-campus initiatives which greatly impacted my journey.

What kind of experience(s) have you gotten through co-op?

Co-op opened my eyes to the real world, and I gained a better understanding of my likes and dislikes in the workplace, and ultimately where I want my career to head. I've tried to keep my horizons open through all my work terms thus far. I have gained experience in Audit for NFPOs and public companies such as Financial Institutions and Deals Advisory. These experiences have taught me how to develop and behave in the workplace as an incoming business professional.

The importance of co-op?

You get a feel for what you like and don't like! Before getting real-life experience, you may think something is the right fit for you, but later find out otherwise, or vice versa! You never know what you can discover and who you can meet and what doors may open for you. The possibilities are endless.

How did you feel going into your first co-op interview – tips/advice?

If I said I wasn't nervous or scared, I would be lying! It's normal to feel anxious – this is most likely your first big girl or big boy job you are interviewing for. What I found important and what helped me was grounding myself. I kept telling myself that an interview is all about you! It's the interviewer's time to get to know you – and who knows yourself better than you! This helped me overcome the idea that there would be questions I couldn't answer. Even if that's the case, it's essential to be honest and confident, as this certainly shows when dealing with a seasoned interviewer, and be yourself! This is the time for you to ask all the questions and wow the employer.

What courses do you enjoy?

My favourite course so far is SPCOM111. It’s a course that helps you improve your public speaking and presentation skills.

What are your classes like?

My lectures have around 200 people, and the professors are very friendly. Try to avoid sitting in the back because it’s easier to get distracted. Tutorials tend to have 30-50 people and are more fun (in my opinion) than lectures because you get to participate and apply what you’ve learned.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university? 

I think it’s important to give yourself some time to adjust and not be too hard on yourself in your first term of university. There will be a bit of a learning curve and you will make mistakes, but the important thing is to learn from them and make changes in the following term accordingly.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

I knew AFM was the right fit for me because I knew that I wanted to get either the CFA or CPA professional designations, and I know that AFM is the best program for that.

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year? 

I wish I knew how fast-paced everything is in university. Time flies by so fast that you don’t really have time to process, so planning and scheduling activities and things you want to do becomes crucial.

What resources have you used and how has it helped you?

I have used the front desk at my residence to ask questions and sign out games. This has helped me adjust to life away from home. I have also gone to my professors’ office hours, which has helped me gain clarification and insight on topics I wasn’t clear on.

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UW community, and residence life?

I have gotten involved in the SAF community by becoming a UW DECA executive, helping run our chapter’s in-house case competition, and preparing training workshops for students. I have gotten involved in the UW community by attending events hosted by the university, such as Artsgiving. Finally, I have gotten involved in residence life by attending midterm study sessions hosted in residence and attending community meetings hosted by my don.

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

My favourite thing about AFM is the concept of Crews. Having my crew made my transition to university a lot easier than it would’ve been without them.

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

As an AFM student, the SAF environment is very welcoming and embraces new students openly. There are many ways for first-year students to get involved, and everyone in the school, including upper-year students and professors, always make sure that we are included.

What’s it like living in residence?

Living in residence is a lot of fun because you're constantly surrounded by friends and other people, so you never really feel alone. In addition, there is always someone to help you if you have any questions about homework or anything.

Tips/advice for living in residence?

It’s important to manage your time wisely because although hanging out with people in your building and friends is fun, you need to make sure you’re still getting your schoolwork done and spending enough time studying. Sometimes staying in residence can be distracting, so I recommend finding a spot on campus to study and get your work done instead of doing it in residence.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)? 

I am involved in UW DECA.

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

I keep a good work-life balance by designating time each day for different activities. For example, I always try to finish my schoolwork before dinner because I know that I will hang out with my friends during and after dinner.  

What courses do you enjoy?

• AFM 121 – Introduction to Global Financial Markets
• AFM 112 – Analytic Methods for Business
• AFM 132 – Introduction to Business Stages

What are your classes like (class size, professors, etc.)?

Classes vary depending on the course, but the class size tends to be similar for different courses. Most lectures have between 100-200 students, and seminars/tutorials have around 30-40 students. Classes usually tend to be fast-paced, and preparation is very important. I have experiences that professors are typically very supportive and encourage students to come out to office hours.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

I knew AFM was the right fit for me because I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in both accounting and finance. I felt that AFM was the best program for my aspirations, as it would give me the best opportunity to pursue both a CPA and CFA designation if I chose. Furthermore, co-op at the University of Waterloo is unlike co-op anywhere else, and I believed it would help me gain valuable work experience before graduation. 

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

As an AFM student, I have experienced that the SAF environment is very supportive. Classmates, professors, and staff in SAF are all committed to your success and provide extensive opportunities for students to reach out and receive the guidance and support they need to succeed and meet their goals. The introduction of SAF Crews is an excellent example. SAF groups students into teams of 5-7 students who act as academic, personal, and community supports throughout each year in the AFM program. 

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)?

• Intramural Basketball
• Waterloo Business Review 
• CPA Ontario Campus Team
• AFSA Tax Clinic

What courses do you enjoy?

My favourite course has been CS 115 so far. This is an introductory course to computer science, and I took it as an elective course for fun.

What are your classes like?

In first year, I noticed that most of my classes have class sizes of around 150 students. Whereas in upper-year semesters, they become smaller to around 50 students. In some classes, there are participation marks. Also, professors are always open to answering your questions during lectures.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

For me, the biggest difficulty has been trying to handle stressful environments. When I was very stressed in university, I was not prepared to handle it. Thus, something I would do in high school would be to teach myself methods on how to deal with these situations.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

In high school, I tried to become exposed to accounting and finance as much as possible. I did this through taking accounting and business courses, doing a co-op in accounting, and joining Junior Achievement. From there, I found that I am interested in accounting and finance.

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year?

I think it is beneficial to constantly communicate with other students in your program, whether they are in the same year or are older; they can provide advice and insights.

What resources have you used and how has it helped you?

I have tried many resources, including asking my academic advisor for suggestions on what electives to take, going to residence tutoring sessions, and going to my professors' office hours. However, I find that the most useful resource is just talking to other students in your program. They can help you with your academics and provide advice for university in general.

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UW community, and residence life?

In the SAF community, I have been involved by taking positions such as being a TA, Peer Leader for the Living Learning Community, and SOAP ambassador. In the UW community, I have joined clubs such as the Archery Club and Finance Association Club. This enabled me to meet friends from other programs. Lastly, when I was in residence in my first year, I tried to actively make friends with the people around me. In hindsight, I found that my most lasting and deep friendships are with those who were in residence with me.

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

I can take courses and pursue designations that I am interested in. For example, right now, I am planning on pursuing the CPA designation. This allows me to have some electives now and then. With those electives, I can take whatever else I am passionate about, including computer science and psychology.

What's the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

There are a lot of AFM students who are very exceptional. It is nice meeting and working with them so that we can learn and grow with one another.

What's it like living in residence?

I liked living in residence because there are friends all over the place. Whenever I need to talk to someone, there is always someone close by to talk to. Also, there are study buddies everywhere.

Tips/advice for living in residence?

 Try to make as many friends as possible. I think that these friendships are very useful when sometime in the future I need someone to hang out with or someone to ask academic questions to.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)?

In my 2A term, I was an Arts Orientation Leader, Peer Leader for the Living Learning Community, Finance Coordinator of StarterHacks, and TA for AFM 101.

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

Undeniably, we are all very ambitious students who have high goals and expectations for our studies. But at the end of the day, you shouldn't dedicate all your time to studying. So, each day, I keep my work/life balance by talking to friends, going to the gym, and/or doing my extra-curricular activities.

Your favourite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends?

I find that I spend a lot of time with friends at food courts. For example, South Campus Hall.

Favourite places to hang out in Kitchener-Waterloo?

In my 2A term, especially during the exam season, I went to Waterloo Park a lot. During the winter, they have Christmas lights there every night, along with Christmas music. Whenever I go outside for a run, I would go to this place to de-stress

How did you prepare for co-op (resources used, events attended, etc.)?

The most useful resource for me was attending an appointment at TC where an advisor was able to criticize and improve my resume. I found that my resume has improved a lot since this visit. 

How did you feel going into your first co-op interview – tips/advice?

Before my first interview, I already had previous experiences doing interviews, so I was not very nervous about it. My advice is to make sure that you can say things that differentiate yourself from others. Then, when you answer questions, talk about unique experiences, what you learned, and the result.

How did you prepare for co-op?

I went to a co-op preparation event at the beginning of my second year. It walked me through WaterlooWorks and the protocol. There was also a mock interview, which gave me a general idea of what an actual job interview is like. The interviewer give advice based on my answers. It was a very good experience. I also scheduled mock interviews on campus. They ask questions tailored to a specific job so that you can prepare better for the actual interview.

What kind of experiences have you gotten through co-op? 

I got hands-on experience in the technical knowledge I learned in school. For my first two co-ops: I worked in tax firms, preparing corporate and personal tax. For my last two co-ops, I mainly did financial reporting such as valuation and financial statements.

The importance of co-op?

You can apply knowledge gained in the classroom, develop a professional resume with a solid work history. It will be easier for you to find full-time jobs when you have a working history during university. It also gives you a general idea of the working life after graduation. Always keep in touch with your colleagues and stay connected with them because you can reach out at a later date to inquire about possible new opportunities. Another good thing is you will know what kind of job you like or you dislike. Maybe you did tax last term but found out you are not interested in it at all, so keep trying until you find the right job for you.

How did you feel going into your first coop interview, tips? 

I was very nervous, couldn’t stop sweating in the waiting room. But when I started to talk with the interviewer, I began to feel better because it was just like a “casual” conversation with a stranger who wanted to get to know me even though I knew it was a job interview!! So here are some tips I think will be helpful for you: 1. Prepare well before the interview: you should prepare answers for each behavioral question they might ask. And practice many times before you go into the real interview. 2. Be confident: you should know that everyone else is as nervous as you, and the interviewer really wants to hire a confident candidate. 3. Dress professionally: you can leave a great first impression by dressing professionally. It shows your professionalism and attitude towards this interview.

What are your classes like?

In AFM, we have a mix of lectures, seminars and tutorials depending on the course. Lectures are usually classes with about 100- 200 students where the professor first teaches you the concepts for the week. Then seminars are smaller classes of around 20-40 students where there is more discussion and application of what we learned. Tutorials are a great time to practice and ask questions in a class of about 100-200 with a TA. Professors always have office hours and are very open to helping out, whether after class or booking an appointment for later. They are very passionate and have a wide range of experience in the industry, which is really interesting

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

Using some type of planner is really helpful in university, especially with deadlines and extracurricular events. It is a great way to manage your time effectively and make sure that you finish everything on time while also planning for breaks and time with friends and family.

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year?

I wish I knew how much more effort I would have to put towards studying than high school. The workload is heavier, and there is so much new knowledge that I have never seen in my life. However, it won't be too hard if you put effort into it and try your best.

Always remember the 3P's of SAF, including Prepare, Participate, and Practice.

What's the SAF environment like as an AFM student? 

This might sound a little funny, but as an AFM student, SAF feels like home but at the same time, really professional. The safe and supportive environment makes me feel comfortable expressing myself while also being the place where I get all the education I need to pursue my career in the future.

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

Keeping a good work/life balance was tough within the first two weeks since the transition from high school to university was definitely huge and effective. However, I managed to balance well later on by trying some methods I received from some events organized by SAF. They helped me realize how to use my time wisely, take notes efficiently, and all other things that I needed to find balance.

How did you prepare for co-op (resources used, events attended, etc.)?

I participated some events held by SAF and they were all really useful. The one I love the most was the first one, which was the "Launch your career" event. We got to dress up in business attire, learned from professionals about how to stand out from others in a job interview, took "LinkedIn approved" photos, and even listened to the experience shared by upper-year students. It was such a great experience in my 1A that I could never forget

What courses do you enjoy?

My favourite course of 1A would be AFM 132, which was the Introduction to Business Stages. This course was taught to us by David Ha. This course entailed the basic understanding of various business terms and other basic business concepts. This course really made me feel like I was finally a part of the business world, and because of this course, I wasn’t completely clueless when I came across some articles related to business and finance. This course is very useful because it covers a wide range of topics which will be taught in future courses in detail.

As for 1B, a course that has piqued my interest would be AFM 121, the Introduction to Global Financial Markets. This course is the first course we have that deals with finance, and it provides us with hands-on experience. In this course, we learn more about the position of major companies in the world. In our AFM 121 tutorials, we have to monitor the stocks of various companies, which I find incredibly interesting. It is crazy to see how the stock can drop and rise so drastically from 9am to 12pm. This course truly prepares you for the world of finance. Another reason why I enjoy this course is that you are testing out the waters of finance, so you can figure out if you can see yourself in the field of finance in the future or not.

Tips/advice for living in residence?

I think a major tip would be the make your room your private getaway. Try and personalize your space as much as possible. You could maybe get decoration pieces from your room back home. This can make you feel a lot more comfortable and can help you miss home a little less. Also, having pictures of loved ones around really helped me feel less homesick.

I brought some of my favorite soft toys from back home, and honestly, it’s the best thing ever to have them on my bed. It makes me feel less homesick instantly!

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

Many of you must have heard that the program is highly competitive, which it is but, its healthy competition. Even though there is a level of competition, being in SAF I instantly felt like I was a part of a community where everyone is always willing to help and be there for each other. SAF also makes you work in groups quite often, and I met some of my closest friends through those group assignments. SAF provides its students with so much support, both mental and academic, through upper years, professors, advisors, and peers. There are so many people who are involved in your journey as a SAF student, and there are multiple resources that you can reach out to. These resources are there for you to help your journey as a university student be as smooth as possible.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

A piece of advice that I would recommend when making the transition from high school to university is to understand that you will need to change your study habits. Most likely, the way you studied for your exams in high school will greatly differ from how you must prepare now to maintain good marks. For me, studying a few nights before an exam was adequate in high school, but I quickly discovered that keeping up with note-taking in lectures and learning a subject little by little every day is the most effective method in university. The key is to try different studying techniques and discover what really works for you.

What’s it like living in residence?

So far, I have really enjoyed my experience living in residence. I live in Village 1 in a single dorm and enjoy coming home to my room every day. You can decorate your dorm, so I have made mine really comfy with lots of pictures of my friends and family to remind me of my hometown. One of my favourite parts of living in residence is having a meal plan because it is so convenient being able to grab food whenever you want. You can also use your meal plan towards any food places on campus, such as Tim Hortons, Subway, or Starbucks. You also meet many new people when you choose to live in residence. Some of my closest friends live on my floor, so it is easy to hang out with them whenever I want.

Favourite places to hang out in Kitchener-Waterloo?

My friends and I often venture off campus when we have free time. Common places for us to hangout include the two food plazas located right next to the campus and Conestoga mall. We love eating out, so we have made it a mission to try all the restaurants in the nearby plazas. Our favourite so far has been Mel's Diner because of their delicious milkshakes. When we want to go shopping, we can easily take the ION train by tapping our watcards. It takes us to Conestoga mall in 10 minutes and has become one of our consistent hang-out spots.

The importance of co-op? 

Co-op is very important when determining your future career path because it provides you with experience in your chosen field. This experience can help you decide on what career you are interested in pursuing and give you an introduction to the industry.

What courses do you enjoy? 

Sports Economics, Intro to Decision Making, Accounting

What are your classes like?

Currently, my classes range from 70 to 100 students, with a single professor instructing and teaching the class. The lectures are in similar format with professors teaching the class while referencing textbook material, real-life applications, and potential exam questions related to the respective teaching material. 

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

My advice would be to have a form of studying that fits your personality. If proper study habits and methods are defined prior to university, the workload can be easily managed. In addition, I would recommend studying the options in university with respect to potential careers and pathways. With a clear ideal and path, students can excel in their first year of university. 

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you? 

I determined that AFM was the right program for me during the early years of high school. I knew that I wanted to obtain a CPA designation while gaining industry experience through co-op. Waterloo offered a great and fast-tracked pathway while offering coop and a great student/social life in the city. The opportunities to pursue and obtain leadership positions within school clubs and committees helped me make my decision as well. 

What resources have you used and how has it helped you?

I have used my academic advisor to inquire about potential pathways with respect to the CPA guidelines and grade requirements.

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UWaterloo community, and residence life? 

Yes, I am proud to say that I am the Vice President of Administration, Logistics for AFOW (Accounting and Finance Orientation Week) and a Student Ambassador. 

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

The community of students and integration of clubs and committees into the student life. 

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

A simple way of describing it is homely. Any aspect of need or requirement like food or study area can easily be accessible. 

What’s it like living in residence?

Living on campus is a great experience, you can make friends beyond the scope of AFM while also studying with your AFM friends and classmates. The independence also makes you a better and more responsible person

Tips/advice for living in residence?

Make friends, fast!

What are your classes like?

Class sizes vary based on the course and the types of classes each course has. For example, in my AFM 111 Professional Pathways and Problem-Solving course last term, I attended class two times a week that consisted of two seminars and one lecture. My two seminar slots were the same class size with the same 30 students and professor, whereas three professors led my lecture with around 200 other AFM students. In my AFM 101 Introduction to Financial Accounting course, I attended 80-minute lectures twice a week and had a tutorial scheduled once a week. A professor led the lectures, whereas my tutorial was held by a teaching assistant who went over key concepts and the correct answers to our practice questions. The number and size of lectures, seminars, and tutorials vary from course to course but will always be scheduled in a way that will help you learn the content effectively.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university? 

Moving further than a walking distance from home to university can be a big transition, but it’s important to adapt well to a new lifestyle and embrace the new challenges that come ahead. I felt that living on campus, involving myself in clubs, and getting to know new people helped me adapt to first year. Living in residence is not only a convenient 10-minute walk to all my classes, but I also have access to all the resources and support in the SAF living-learning community at Village 1. Since I was involved in various extracurricular activities in high school, I felt that joining a few clubs helped me re-establish that sense of community by finding people with similar interests. Lastly, through orientation and spontaneous conversations in the cafeteria, I got to know more students across all years and programs at the university. Getting to know more people made the environment less intimidating as I soon recognized more familiar faces in my residence and walked down the street. On a high level, I’d say don’t be afraid to be yourself and push yourself outside your comfort zone. You’ll be spending the next few years here, so be sure to begin with a strong start!

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UWaterloo community, and residence life? 

Joining clubs helped me get involved in the community at UW because it gave me the chance to meet so many unbelievably talented people. I’d say SAF is a pretty tight community because you see everyone around Hagey Hall (the SAF building) and AFM students have all the same courses together in first year. I personally got to know more people in SAF by attending case competitions, talking to people in the SAF lounge in Hagey Hall, and meeting people at various socials/networking events. I grew closer to my residence friends through attending events my don held for us, by watching TikTok compilations on the common lounge TV, and clarifying concepts from the same courses with each other.

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

SAF has cultivated a comfortable learning environment by providing us with many resources to excel. The professors are caring and diligent in teaching the subjects and are friendly people to talk to outside of class. Since all the first-year AFM courses are the same, we’re usually only divided amongst 2-3 lecture slots. With that being said, it’s not too intimidating to walk into your first lecture of the term as you probably recognize many from the previous term. There are also many external opportunities to learn through case competitions, networking events, biweekly webcasts, and events held by the Accounting and Finance Student Association.

Furthermore, we are assigned into “crews”, which usually consists of 5 other students in your program and are in your year. My crew had all our courses together during the same sections last term, which helped us to get comfortable working with one another. We support each other by keeping each other accountable for deadlines and answer each others’ questions. Some of our classes required crews to sit together and/or make presentations as a team, which helped me reinforce my ability to collaborate and learn from them.

What’s it like living in residence? 

At the University of Waterloo, the main campus is enclosed within Ring Road, an abnormal and round street that runs around most buildings. I live at the residence Village 1 (V1), located towards the northwest side of campus, right along Ring Road. Most of the rooms at V1 are single rooms, but there are also a few interconnecting and double rooms. I live in a single room, so I don’t have any roommates, but it’s rarely boring as the people living on my floor are quite lively. There is one common room per building that is furnished with a fridge, sink, chairs, tables, couches, a whiteboard, and a TV. I happen to live next to the common room where my floormates often hang out to watch a movie, eat, and study together. Furthermore, it’s great to live in V1 because it’s the living-learning community for SAF students. This community supports SAF students by providing us an upper-year peer leader who meets with us every so often to talk about our goals and offers us advice based on their experiences.

Tips/advice for living in residence? 

Have fun with the people living on your floor and in your building! They’re your university family as you literally live with them and will see them essentially every day. Also, having such convenient access to many food options in the cafeteria will be tempting, so enjoy it! (Remember not to overeat, though, as freshman 15 can be tough!)

What extracurricular activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, etc.)? 

I represent my residence building on the Village 1 residence council at weekly meetings. I’m also an Associate on ACE Consulting Group, where I also participated in volleyball intramurals. In the Accounting and Finance Student Association, I am a Project Manager in the Internal Services department. In addition, I attend Frosh Cell, a fellowship specifically for first-year students run by the UW Chinese Christian Fellowship.

What courses do you enjoy?

My favourite course throughout my 1A term was AFM 132 - Introduction to Business Stages. This course introduced me to the business world today, where I learned about the steps to be a successful entrepreneur, for example, which interested me. This course was completely new, and I definitely recommend this course since it is not as intensive with work.

What are your classes like (class size, professors, etc.)?

When attending lectures, I can reasonably expect around 100-200 students with me in my class. However, I did not find this intimidating since everyone is focusing on the lecture being taught by the professor. I believed the professor I had in my 1A term and the professors that I currently have in my 1B term are extremely helpful and will go out of their way to make sure you receive the help you require on a certain concept or topic. Most importantly, the office hours that my professors have provided were flexible, and they were great at explaining new concepts to me.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university? 

When it comes to transitioning from high school to university, it is important to create and use an agenda or an online calendar. Having my calendar set up electronically on my laptop was extremely beneficial as I was able to meet my deadlines in terms of submitting projects and assignments on time. It was also extremely helpful in terms of helping me remember what the exact dates were for my midterm exams. This way, I was able to prepare in advance. Having a calendar helps you remain on track and organized as a first-year student, and it is crucial to be organized in first-year as this will be able to carry on with you throughout your university career.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you? 

I believed AFM was the right fit for me since I had a passion for Accounting and Finance in high school, and I wanted to pursue my CPA designation. The AFM program provides a direct route to the CPA designation when combined with the the Masters of Accounting Program in fifth year, which really drew me AFM. I also believed that co-op played a major role in me choosing AFM as gaining that work experience within the service lines of tax and audit has been a personal dream of mine, and through co-op, I have four work terms to figure out if I want to work in audit, tax or possibly even explore careers in finance.

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year? 

I wish I knew how friendly the environment is here, as I was under the impression that AFM has extremely competitive students. Still, I have fortunately made many new friends during my time here. In addition, I established important connections with second-year students who have also helped make the transition easier for me as a freshman at the university.

What courses do you enjoy? 

Through my first term of university, my favourite course has been AFM 112 (Analytic Methods for Business). I enjoyed this class a lot because we started slowly by learning about different tools within the Microsoft Suite, then began learning a language to help us make use of millions of lines of data - something which is vital and done in the real world. Understanding how data as consumers can be used to curate business decisions was insightful. In addition, it opened my eyes to potential possibilities and pathways I can further explore as a student in the AFM program. 

What are your classes like? 

Classes aren’t what I expected some of them to be; large and overwhelming. Most classes have about 100 students. However, within those classes, we have small sections for tutorials with about 30 students, which allows us to interact more. 

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

I think the biggest tip is to come with an open mind and work ethic. In university, there are no reminders and a lot of distractions. So the best way for a student to adapt to this new lifestyle is not to have any expectations for university but try to have a diligent work ethic to aid in staying up to date in course work and assessments. 

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you? 

I knew AFM was the right fit for me because I knew I wanted to specialize in either Accounting or Finance, which the program would enable while furthering my understanding in both strands through the co-op. 

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year? 

I wish I knew or had a better idea of how many potential distractions can arise through clubs, peers, and athletics which requires a lot of discipline and a certain level of self-control to combat to stay caught up in classes.

What resources have you used and how has it helped? 

I've talked with peer leaders and specific staff members. I found upper-year peer leaders to be quite effective, and with staff having professional designations and industry experience, they speak from real-world examples to provide insight. 

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UWaterloo community, and residence life? 

In the SAF community, I was awarded and recognized as a fellow recipient, enabling me to become a leader within my program. Further, I have participated in intramurals and joined several clubs. At my residence in UWP, I am a residence ambassador working to better events and participation within my floor and building.

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

Comradery. One thing I really admire about SAF and AFM is the thorough comradery seen, expressed, and felt throughout the program - within my year and through interactions with peers in senior years. 

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student? 

The SAF environment is very open and accepting. There are students from across the province, country and world! 

What’s it like living in residence?

I’ve absolutely loved living on residence. I can say a lot of the students I’ve met on my floor are the same students who I see as some of my closest friends now and down the line, future colleagues. I have the chance to interact, have fun and work hard with the students on my floor as we are all the same age experiencing higher education and adapting together. 

Tips/advice for living in residence?

The residence has the potential to be both productive and fun. It’s important to be open to meeting new people with a level of responsibility as its a shared community. 

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in?

I’ve had the chance to participate in intramural sports with newfound friends from my floor and kids from my program, including dodgeball, volleyball, and basketball. In addition, I have taken part in AFSA, and a new club called Waterloo Business Review, which is striving to create an online platform to prepare students for a future driven by innovation. Students have created content for this club with insights into business strategy, entrepreneurship, and global affairs.

How do you keep a good work/life balance? 

I keep a good work/life balance by creating a schedule and completing assignments at least a full day in advance. 

Your favorite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends?

My favourite spots to study would include EV2, M3 Lecture Hall, QNC Lounge, E7 Lecture Halls, and the SAF Lounge in HH. These are also great places to hang out with friends.

Favourite places to hang out in Kitchener-Waterloo? 

Uptown Waterloo has a lot of cool restaurants. It also has the St.Jacobs Farmers Market on weekends (recommended by Professor Ozkardas)!

What classes do you enjoy?

My favourite AFM course is AFM 202, Intro to Public Practice. In this course, you will spend half the time learning tax and the other half learning assurance. I liked this course mostly because of its content. By taking this course in 2A, it helped me to be successful in the upcoming co-op term. Both the knowledge from the course and skills learned from the tax software (TaxPrep) will likely be used in your co-op term if you choose an assurance or tax position. In terms of non-AFM courses, I liked CS 100. I learned many interesting things about the computers that I always used but never fully understood. Coding and some assignments can be done for a topic of your choice, so I found those assignments very fun to complete. Moreover, this course helped me learn more about Excel, which is used for many finance courses. 

What are your classes like?

Classes differ based on class size. For compulsory AFM courses, the classes are generally larger, in particular for the accounting classes. I find that when classes are smaller and there are more projects, it is easier to get to know the professors better. For example, in my SPCOM class, we had around 30 students and multiple presentations. By the end of the term, I think my professor remembered all of our names. 

Tips for transitioning from high school to university?

Time management is key! This is the biggest piece of advice that I would have given myself. In comparison to high school, there is less class time in university. Hence, you must be able to allocate time to study. Also, learn to study smarter, not necessarily harder. Focus more on the courses and the content that you find difficult. 

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

After taking the accounting class in high school and listening to a presentation on the CPA designation, I knew that it was the career I wanted to follow. AFM is the best fit for individuals like me, as I want to pursue my CPA designation, and I am open to pursuing other designations as well. Also, the Master's program allows me to quickly obtain my designation. 

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year?

I wish I knew that money gets used up very quickly. Before first-year, I already knew that I would be incurring much more expenses in the next few years, in addition to tuition. However, I was surprised by how the living expenses add up. I also didn't realize the amount of school fees I would have, such as for the GRT and clubs. If I had known earlier, I would have asked for more hours at my part-time job. 

What SAF resources have your used and how have they helped you?

The resources I have used the most are my academic advisor and my professors. My academic advisor was helpful to me when I had concerns about my grades and questions about academic pathways. In addition to answering questions about the courses they teach, professors at SAF are also great at giving advice related to both school and careers. Many professors come from the industry, so they were able to answer my questions about jobs. 

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UWaterloo community, and residence life? 

I have been involved with SOAP (SAF Outreach and Ambassador Program), LLC (Living-Learning Community), and volleyball intramural. I enjoy my program and being at UW. I was also a very confused 12th grader at one point in time. Hence, SOAP has been a great way for me to promote something I love and help people who are in a position where I once was. 

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF? 

My favourite thing about SAF is the number of opportunities we get to develop ourselves, and how it helps us transition into the workforce. As soon as SAF students start in first-year, they can participate in networking events with various companies. Throughout the program, SAF also hosts many events to help students better understand and apply for co-op. 

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

As an AFM student, I am part of many large communities. AFM students make up the majority of SAF. Whenever I need support, I can look towards my friends in the same program as me. Moreover, as part of SAF, I can work and participate in SAF events along with other SAF students not in AFM. In a large university like UW, a community like SAF helps students become tailored to their careers.  

What’s it like living in residence?

Residence is a great transition between living at home with your parents to fully living on your own. Choices of different residences at UWaterloo also help to suit the needs and wants of many students. For example, I liked my access to meal plans and did not mind not having a kitchen in V1. Moreover, residence is one of the best ways to make new friends for first-years. 

Tips/advice for living in residence?

I think that advice for living in residence varies based on residence style. In terms of general advice for any residence style, I would suggest students decorate their room. Decorating the walls (or the cork board in V1!) can help brighten your mood during exams and make it feel like your bedroom. Also, consider putting up pictures of family and friends to make the room feel cozier. 

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

Good time management can help you to focus on studying when you should be studying and help balance work and life. 

Your favorite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends?

SAF Lounge!

How did you prepare for co-op?

SAF’s Co-op Ready event 

What kind of experience(s) have you gotten through co-op?

I am currently in my first work term as I am writing this, but I have already heard about many exciting duties to look forward to, such as filing personal tax returns. 

The importance of co-op?

Co-op is super important! I think that today, simply having a degree will not help you stand out from your peers. Co-op gives you a head start into work experience by the time you graduate. Academics are important, but I think it is also important to know how to apply the knowledge you have learned in courses and transform them into skills for the job. 

How did you feel going into your first co-op interview – tips/advice?

I was very nervous about going into my first co-op interview. I have learned that there is no need to be nervous, just relax and be yourself. The employers want to learn more about your true self, so show that to them! Another piece of advice is to interview the employer while they are interviewing you. Take note of the employers to help you rank after interviews. 

What classes do you enjoy?

Thus far, my favourite courses have been AFM 132, and AFM 121. AFM 132 was made fun and interesting by the professor – David Ha. He was a genuinely nice and fun person, which made the class enjoyable. As for AFM 121, the material is most relevant to me, as I intend to pursue a career in finance.

What are your classes like?

A fairly even split between large lectures (150-200 students), and smaller class sizes (20-40 students). The professors are all nice people and are willing to aid their students with whatever matters or questions that come up.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

Do not get caught up in the sudden freedom. The freedom to choose your own pathway and make all your own decisions as an adult comes with a requirement to be responsible – this entails being responsible for your own studies, as there are absolutely no “freebies”.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

The desire to pursue a career in finance, as well as a testimonial from a close alumnus.

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year?

I wish I knew how much of the communication regarding events (such as socials, networking, etc.) is either campus-based or word-of-mouth. Talking to people and getting involved in social networks is extremely important if you want to take advantage of the numerous events that take place each term.

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

The sheer amount of opportunities available to students is incredible. Networking events, labs, socials, and all other varieties of events occur very frequently, and taking advantage of them is very helpful long-term.

What’s the SAF environment like as an AFM student?

Very welcoming and understanding. Everybody is of the same mindset, which makes relating to others and forming connections very easy. Much more so compared to other levels of education (such as middle school and high school).

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in?

I am involved primarily with the SAF Fellowship program and the SOAP Ambassador program. While, officially, I am involved with CPA Ontario and DECA, I don’t participate in many of their activities due to some time constraints. 

How do you keep a good work/life balance?

By scheduling my time out on a calendar, I can easily see just how much time outside of sleep, classes, and exercise I have. There’s so much time in a day that it’s hard to ignore the work potential, and so I do whatever is necessary, then if there is a multitude of free time in the day, I’ll work ahead to benefit my future self.

Your favorite spots on campus to relax/hang out with friends?

I most enjoy just hanging out in my friends’ dorms, as most of my friends live on-campus. Dorm lounges are good places to study when quiet, and since I go so often, I’m recognized by the majority of those who live there.

Favourite places to hang out in Kitchener-Waterloo?

I mostly default to recreational or national parks or small restaurants, like a Tim Horton’s. The reason being, the parks are great for long walks and discussions, while a decent lounge in a Tim’s is good for just chatting away.

What courses do you enjoy?

I think that my favourite course currently is AFM 121. I am very interested in the financial markets, and I believe this course will give me a good baseline to start learning about investing and financing. I also like the format of this course as I like the idea of long tutorials as it allows for more hands-on learning. Last term, I think that my favourite course was AFM 112. I enjoyed working with databases, and I think that I learned a lot in the course.

What are your classes like? 

I have a variety of class sizes ranging from 25 people to 150 people. I think that I like both the normal large lectures and small classes for different reasons. I like the large lectures because I feel a lot more relaxed in the setting, but I like the smaller classes because of the more intimate conversations you can have on the topics covered in class. So, there are both pros and cons to both class settings.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

The main thing that I was worried about when transitioning from high school to university was the social aspect. My tip for making friends in university is to be willing to make friends with new people. At the beginning of the term, people are all looking for friends, so as long as you make an effort, it is very easy to make friends. Also, if you live in residence, try to make friends with the people in your dorm as it makes the residence experience very fun.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you? 

I knew AFM was the right fit for me because I knew that I wanted to go specifically into the field of accounting and finance. So, while other programs offer a more general business program, AFM immediately starts with finance and accounting courses.

How have you gotten involved in the SAF community, UW community, and residence life? 

I have joined many clubs around the school to get involved within the community. For example, I have joined AFSA, the accounting and finance student association, to get involved in the SAF community. I am in the AFSA Education branch which provides study packages and study sessions to the members of the SAF community.

Your favourite thing about AFM/SAF?

I think my favourite thing about AFM and SAF is the people involved in it. Everyone I have talked to has been very supportive, making my transition to university much easier.

What’s it like living in residence? 

Living in residence is an extremely fun experience. It always feels like there is something to do and people to talk to because everyone is always around you. Many people in the dorm hang out in the dorm lounge, where we play games and chat. I live in Village 1 in a Living Learning Community, so a lot of the people in the dorm are fellow AFM students. So, whenever I need help with assignments or homework, I have people to ask.

How do you keep a good work/life balance? 

I keep a good work/life balance by making sure that I take breaks in between studying. For example, if I find myself studying for more than 2 hours, I go down to the lounge in my dorm and talk to the people there. To keep a good work/life balance, you just need to make sure that you do not procrastinate so that you have adequate time to finish all your assignments on time.

Tips/advice when it comes to transitioning from high school to university?

I think having campus tours or doing a lot of research about the university you’re applying to can be a huge help when expecting what it will be like and making you more ready. Also, travel! I graduated in January, so during the eight months of break, I travelled a lot with my family, which we cannot easily do in university.

Tips/advice when it comes to moving to a new city?

Do not be afraid of making mistakes when talking if you are from a country where English is not the first language. And be open-minded!

What concerns/fears did you have about moving away from home? How did you overcome those fears?

Not having my best friends or family was the biggest challenge for me. However, I think that also means I had plenty of chances to get to know new people. So I tried to think positively and regard it as another great opportunity to experience a new environment.

How did you know AFM was the right fit for you?

To be honest, I believe it is very difficult to come to university, already knowing this is the perfect fit for you. In my case, I think I learned it throughout my first and second years while talking to other people, and I am still realizing it while working at an actual firm!

What did you wish you knew before entering into first year?

All the requirements for having a minor degree or even any other chances such as exchange. I would have planned my courses better.

What resources have you used and how and how has it helped you?

Being Korean, I tried to join a Korean Community club, which was a great chance to be around people with familiar culture, and it helped me relax when I was stressed. Also, whenever I had questions, I would ask the professors when they were available. So one tip is not to be afraid of asking for help from the professors!

How do you cope with home sickness?

I always tried to adopt a hobby that I can focus on. I also cooked some traditional dishes which I used to eat back home. And most importantly, it is completely okay to cry sometimes.

The importance of co-op?

It really is a great opportunity to learn about the field that I am majoring in through a much more practical way. It is also a perfect break from the exams. Most importantly, it gives us a sense of what the real workplace would look like when we actually go out to the real world.

How did you feel going into your first co-op interview – tips/advice?

I was so nervous and anxious, especially for the interviews. However, if you're true to yourself when answering questions and letting the employers know who you truly are and what you really enjoy, they will definitely recognize your value. The key is confidence and honesty!