Blog

In my 1A term, people often asked me, “Why biotech/CPA?” My preferred response would have been: “Because wearing both lab coats and suits is really cool.”

But what I usually responded with was, “Because having both science and business backgrounds will allow me to develop and contribute a unique perspective.” Stating this really didn’t help me realize the true meaning.

Now, as a 4B student, I realize that developing a unique perspective means being open-minded, having the courage to follow your curiosity, and connecting seemingly unrelated things.

A couple of weeks ago, I attended a SAF hosted professional development conference called Launch Your Career.

I’d summarize Launch Your Career as: “a big ol’ introduction to some really key points of life and not just the business world.” Sure, there were speakers who talked about everything in the context of a “business setting”, but, if I’m being honest, I was surprised at how little the language was focused on something like a corporate setting. I basically just spent hours learning tips and tricks to succeed in life in general, and even got the opportunity to do some networking – which was one of the topics of discussion – with the speakers!

A solitary figure stands in the middle of the stage as a bright beam of light surrounds her. Suddenly, she takes a deep breath and realizes – it’s show time. Dramatic, I know, but that’s life in the theatre.

I’ve worked for Deloitte in their tax and corporate development divisions to build my business acumen. Networking with upper-year students and alumni exposed me to diverse career paths. But my most impactful experience to date has been participating in “Success Beyond the Classroom”.

Transitioning into first year of AFM studies is similar in many ways:
1) you feel a bit lost,
2) you’re unsure of what the expectations for you are, and
3) you have to level-up your skills in a hurry.

Current 4^th year AFM students, Bianca and Tiffany spoke with the SAF Communications and External Relations team about their experiences while on an exchange trip. Bianca went on an exchange to Sweden while Tiffany enjoyed a study term in London, UK!

David, Amaris, and Zao took the time to talk to SAF’s Communications and External Relations team about their experiences being on a varsity team. They shared some tips on how they managed their time between academics and sports. In addition to these three student athletes, seven other student athletes from SAF programs were named on the 2018 President’s Academic Honour Roll, making the university proud.

This past August 2018, Professor Steve Balaban and his students in the AFM 334, formerly known as AFM 415, International Study Course learned more about the practicalities of international accounting and finance in Hong Kong. Check out what some of the students had to say about their experience with this course.