Student Experience

Michael’s journey in the Accounting and Financial Management (AFM) program came with challenges, including the lack of Black representation in accounting—but it also sparked a drive to create change! Through mentorship, UWBASE, Blackleaf Capital, and co-founding the Waterloo Black Business Society, he’s building a community that uplifts and empowers Black students.

In November, Arnav, Anmol, Aidan, Joanna, Kabir and Luka, had the opportunity to represent the School of Accounting and Finance and University of Waterloo at the ACIIC Fall Stock Pitch Competition. This competition is an intercollegiate stock pitch competition among 10 of the biggest business programs in Canada including schools like Western University, Queens University and University of British Columbia. 

In January, a team of Accounting and Financial Management (AFM) students—Luka (3B), Michael (3B), Arnav (2B), and Jasmine (2B)—achieved a remarkable victory, securing first place at the National Investment Banking Competition (NIBC) in Vancouver. Competing against more than 300 teams from 16 countries, they showcased their exceptional financial skills on the global stage and took home the prestigious $10,000 grand prize. 

In the Sustainability and Financial Management (SFM) program, students don't just study sustainability, they practice it.

The SFM program proudly teams up with Sustainable Waterloo Region for an annual tree planting event, bringing together students and staff to help plant micro-forests that enhance biodiversity and inspire environmental stewardship in our local community. 

Through this hands-on, collaborative experience, they learn the true value of sustainability from the ground up.

Gabriel, Ish, Akshat, and Ansaar reflect on their experience at the 2024 Business Valuation Challenge, where they tackled the art of balancing technical aspects with clear, client-focused communication.

Luka and Josh (AFM students) secured 3rd place at the Boston Stock Pitch Competition, impressing judges with their "buy" recommendation of Pet Valu backed by extensive research. They credit SAF extracurriculars with helping to prepare them for the competition and emphasize the value of learning from peers, alumni, and competition experiences.

In this blog, the AFM 334 International Study Course class shares their experience travelling to the tech-bustling city of New York during reading week.

In September, students and staff of the SFM program collaborated with Sustainable Waterloo to plant trees at a local elementary school.

Learn about the exciting experience Cynthia and her team had at the Tax Executives Institute Case Competition!

In this blog, our International Study Course class shares their experiences, from culture to business, during their trip to Japan and reflects on them.