Student Experience

As a third-year student, here are three things I wish I knew during my first year.

What are the important aspects to keep in mind when making an investment decision?

Hi fellow School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) students!

I’m Helena, a Master of Accounting (MAcc) student who joined the Young Tax Professionals (YTP) program not long ago. You may be wondering, “What is a MAcc student doing in the YTP program and not preparing for the CPA Common Final Examination (CFE)?” I am here to share my experience to help you gain some insight into the YTP program and the taxation field.

As students, we constantly face challenges that compel us to adapt and innovate to succeed. Challenges come in many forms, whether they be exams, group projects, or just living on your own for the first time.

I admit I am a little sad to be signing off from the hEDGE Financial Services Conference executive team. These past three years I’ve spent organizing the conference have been one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences. However, I would not have had it any other way. The hEDGE experience has forever transformed the way I think, lead, and work within a team — and it was definitely for the better. There were three key lessons I picked up over the years that I know will accompany me for the rest of my career.

Striving to bridge the gender gap within the finance industry through an engaging conference

Hi everyone! I’m a 1B student in the Accounting and Financial Management (AFM) program and I knew when I first started university that I wanted to get involved with an initiative that I was passionate about and made a real impact. After attending a lunch and learn event hosted by the UWaterloo Women in Finance (WIF) initiative, I realized I had found my match!

Since a young age, my parents instilled in me and my siblings the importance of giving back to our communities to create a positive impact in whatever way possible. From a young age, I remember joining my brother and father in various random acts of kindness by offering food to the homeless in underprivileged neighbourhoods in Pakistan. These acts of kindness remained important to us as we all grew older and busier with our lives.

Advice for grade 12 students who are nervous about starting university.

I’m what you call a battle-tested, seasoned veteran. No, not because I’m an Ace Pilot who has an airport named after me, but because I’ve been in your shoes, breaking a nervous sweat while wondering what life would be like past high school. (Spoiler: It’s pretty sweet!)

Reflect

Chances are, you probably have not taken the time to reflect and get to know yourself very well. I would encourage everyone to take the time to learn about themselves. I have found it very helpful to think deeply about my passions, the ways in which I am developing, and the lessons that I am learning throughout my extra-curricular activities and coursework.