future path
F a c u l t y P e r s p e c t i v e
Interview conducted by Mehrnoush Shahbandi
The Future Path:
How UCW prepares students for their future life
An interview with Sophie Farmani
Assistant Professor and Vice Chair, ACSS, UCW
UCWBackPack: We’re excited to share that Sophie Farmani, the Vice Chair of the Associate of Arts program, is with us today to participate in this series. Her thoughtful responses set the tone for what we hope will become a regular feature, as we continue to reach out to more members of the university community in the coming weeks.
“Hi Sophie, thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy day and agreeing to do this interview for our university’s journal, The Backpack. So, if you agree, I will immediately start with the first question.”
“We all know that the university wants to prepare students for their future career paths. Can you tell us how the university integrates industry expectations into the academic programs for the students to achieve this goal?”
Sophie: “OK! So, that’s actually a very good question. In general, if I want to talk about the programs that are offered within the undergrad ACSS department, I would say there’s a lot of work being done to make sure students are prepared for the industry. This way, they can really take advantage of their education and make great use of it after graduation.
One of the things is the fact that we ensure the faculty we bring on board—a lot of them are coming with practical industry experience—use that to really bring life into the textbooks. They try to give a very practical dimension of knowledge and present that to the students so they understand the Canadian market, the businesses within this country, and how they operate.
On top of that, we also make sure students are trained in terms of soft skills, which is an essential skill set all students need in order to succeed in the industry. We make sure we have certain projects incorporated into our courses—presentations, for example. All of these things really help train the students in those soft skills that will help them leverage the expertise they gain in their careers, in any job they end up doing after graduation.
So, when it comes to preparing them for industry, we do have certain events. For example, we recently had a Pitch Night. Students come to those events, and they can participate as entrepreneurs. They meet some industry leaders, and those industry leaders give them feedback on their entrepreneurial ideas. These are great ways for us to encourage students to think about the industry during their studies and not just focus on getting, I don’t know, top grades.
It’s good to have a really good average and GPA, but it's also important to keep an eye on what’s happening within the industry.
Another team that's working very closely with ACSS is the CDC (Career Development Centre). They provide lots of consultations for the students—when it comes to creating their résumés, understanding the job market in Canada, and preparing for interviews. It’s a very active team of highly qualified people who provide that support to students, so students, as they’re doing their studies, can also better prepare themselves to get the jobs they like.”
UCWBackPack: “Thank you! Is there any other specific skill you think students can work on to do better in their future careers? Or do you think that academic success at UCW would be enough if they work on their soft skills?”
Sophie:“Soft skills are important, and academic success is important. It’s essential to acquire the technical knowledge you need on top of the soft skills. But what I also try to, or I would say, what the whole department strives to, instill in our students is the idea that we want them to become lifelong learners.
With the fast growth in technology and the business world, and all of the changes in politics and other areas, we cannot just get a degree and rely on that for a lifetime. Things are changing. If you have the right skill sets and you know where to go to learn about new domains of expertise or the latest technological shifts, that will be a valuable asset on a daily basis.
So, if you’re a lifelong learner—passionate, curious, and eager to explore new things—you’re going to learn things that will obviously help you in your career, whatever it is. Really instilling that passion for learning is something we try to do. It’s a skill set you will use throughout your life.
Because of this rapid growth and the changes we’re observing—whether it's AI or global trade—students need to stay up to speed. Having that passion for learning and curiosity will be a driving force in their success.”
UCWBackPack: “That’s very true! Thank you so much. Just one question about the student body of our university: can you share any examples of previous students or alumni who have used what they learned at UCW and become successful in their careers?”
Sophie: “Yeah, we do have some really good cases with the CDC. If you go to them, they have written testimonials from our graduates who have landed strong careers. They share what helped them during their studies at UCW in order to land those positions. I would encourage you to stay in contact with my colleagues at CDC.
At the same time, I’ve been a faculty member for, I would say, 5–6 years at UCW now. Along with my colleagues—not just myself—we’ve received emails from students who’ve landed great careers and written to thank us for what the department has done for them, especially when it comes to soft skills and preparing for the different work environments that exist in North America compared to the countries they came from.
I would say this university—thanks to its strategic location in downtown Vancouver—has really been able to bring industry into the academic journey of our students, so they can better prepare themselves for the job market in Canada.
So, there are definitely specific success stories that we’ve received over the years. I would say it’s very important for students to stay focused during their studies. It’s OK if you don’t know what career you want right after graduation—it’s absolutely OK. But it’s very important to stay curious and learn more about yourself and your passions.
Don’t just take courses to get a degree. Take those courses to help you understand what your passions are, what you like to do, and what you can succeed in. At the same time, keep an eye on the job market. This environment is evolving every day. With every change in technology, some jobs are becoming redundant.
So, it's important to know your passion, and it’s equally important to stay realistic and logical. See what the demands are within the job market, what things could really help the community, and what gaps you could help fill. That awareness can help you stay focused in your studies and hopefully graduate in a field that is needed in this country, in this community.
Just one thing to add to your first question about how UCW prepares students for industry: another thing the department has been quite active in is ensuring that students take courses that help them secure certain market credentials.
For example, for CPA, we have a pathway—students can take certain courses that are counted toward CPA designation. We’re also creating specializations in marketing, human resources, and other areas within our Bachelor of Commerce program.
I’m from the Master of Arts program, but as we did with our bachelor's program in commerce, we’re working to offer specializations that provide students with the necessary technical expertise to succeed in their careers by becoming experts in specific areas.
The purpose is really to help students continue their education beyond graduation. But, of course, the way we’ve structured our courses is very practical. When it comes to case studies or industry projects, we make sure the course content is designed to help students keep an eye on industry trends and bridge academic learning with practical applications.”
UCWBackPack: “Thanks so much for sharing your insights with us today—your thoughtful answers will truly inspire and guide our students in their academic and professional journeys.”
S t u d e n t V o i c e
We asked our students to share which courses, projects, or assignments they found especially helpful in preparing for their future academic and professional lives. Here’s what they told us:
Research Report on Emerging Business Trends COMM 203 - Information Gathering
I was asked to evaluate both primary and secondary research data to create an official research document. Through the project I developed stronger research methods and improved data assessment techniques along with report writing and critical thinking capacity that benefit my professional and personal choices.
Throughout MRKT 201 - Marketing Management, I had to develop complete marketing designs through market segmentation strategies and brand choices as well as promotion tactics for either actual or hypothetical products. The learning opportunity taught me fundamental marketing strategies and creative problem-solving, consumer awareness, and brand management abilities, which establish a pathway to lucrative business development and marketing sales careers.
HIST 305 (Canadian Urban History)—Presentation on Surrey City
In this course, I worked on a presentation about Surrey City, focusing on its history, population growth, and overall progress. I researched how Surrey transformed from a small rural area into a major urban center. The project involved analyzing historical data, mapping population trends, and highlighting key milestones in the city’s development. Through this project, I improved my research skills by gathering reliable historical information. I also developed my public speaking and presentation abilities, which are valuable for future professional settings. Understanding urban development has also made me more aware of how cities evolve, which could help me in business-related decision-making.
COMM 203-16 Information Gathering Assignment: Research assignment on the Apple company, like we did an interview with the manager of the company and research on the company, like taking reviews from the customers who use the products from this company. I learned many things, like the insurance policy of the Apple company and how to promote the product, and many more, which will help me to do a job in a company in the future.
The first course I took in my first term at this university was Physical Geography 101. This course really helped me learn about the world map, different types of rocks, the atmosphere, and the planets. I still remember that the professor gave us a group assignment in which we had to create a map showing the area where we lived. He asked us to mark all the lakes, parks, national parks, and tropical forests in Canada. This project helped us create a map that displayed different types of forests and tropical regions, which could be explored by clicking on the website we built.
Hospitality and Tourism 101. The professor asked us to create a presentation on the famous places of the North American continent. For that project, we researched extensively and chose Banff National Park, which is truly beautiful and attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. Through this project, I learned about many beautiful places across Canada that generate significant revenue for the nation. This project helped us understand the importance of preserving such natural resources for future generations.
COMM 203 (Information Gathering) Project: Interview Transcript (YouTube Video Assignment) I created a 5-minute review of Google Nest, outlining its features and workings. I spoke during the recording, edited the recording, and uploaded it on YouTube. The project developed public speaking, video production, and content creation skills, which are crucial for media, marketing, and digital communication practitioners.
GEOG 101 (Physical Geography) Project: Lab #1 - Simple Online Mapping This assignment involved the use of online mapping tools to analyze geographic data. I conducted mapping places, identifying landforms, and interpreting environmental changes. I learned spatial analysis skills and an understanding of digital mapping, which can be useful in professional jobs such as urban planning, GIS analysis, and environmental science. These assignments gave me practical experience and allowed me to gain technical, communication, and analytical skills for my professional life.
The course I would like to mention is Sociology (SOCI 100). During this course, we were required to attend an event organized by the University of Canada West and write a report about it. My best friend and I chose to attend a badminton competition held at the Recreation Center. We had a great time there and even got the chance to play badminton, which I thoroughly enjoyed, as it has been one of my favorite sports since childhood. It was my first experience playing badminton as a university student, and I truly loved it. Engaging in such activities offers a refreshing perspective on life. While studying, you also get to learn new things in an enjoyable and interactive way. I learned several new lessons through these class projects and never felt burdened by them—I always tried to enjoy the process while participating in these activities.
PHIL 210 (Case Study on Virtue Ethics—Written Group Project) Through this assignment, I studied real-life situations using the lens of virtue ethics, which helped me understand how moral values influence decision-making. This project improved my ethical reasoning and decision-making skills—qualities that are valuable in both personal and professional life.
ENGL 102 (Article Review Assignment) In this assignment, I analyzed and summarized an article, which helped me develop my reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. These skills are essential for any career that requires clear communication and analytical thinking. Overall, my experience studying this and other courses at UCW was very positive, as they have all contributed significantly to preparing me for my future.
ENGL 100 – Academic Writing Assignment: Argumentative Essay For this assignment, I chose to write about a social issue and supported my position with evidence and academic sources, following a structured argument format. Skills Developed: I improved my ability to develop arguments, write persuasively, and apply proper citation practices. These skills are highly valuable when writing reports or proposals in both workplace and academic settings.
ECON 102 – Microeconomics Assignment: Market Simulation Report Description: In this project, I analyzed a real-world market—the fast food industry—by examining and modifying supply, demand, and pricing dynamics. Skills Gained: I developed economic reasoning, analytical thinking, and the ability to apply theory to real-world situations. These skills are useful for making better personal and business decisions.
SOCI 100 – Sociology Assignment: Social Issues Presentation Description: For this assignment, I worked with a group to research and present on a current social issue, such as gender inequality or homelessness. Skills Developed: I gained skills in collaboration, public speaking, and social awareness—all of which are important for leadership roles and meaningful community engagement.
MGMT403—Strategic Management In this class I had a project about the Santander bank of Spain. I had to do an investigation about his beginnings and his achievements, and I acquired current data. More than anything, I learned about the importance of the diversification that the bank made to be able to position itself among one of the most important in the world. Diversification is something that, for me, was the most important thing about this project since, in my personal life, I was able to make available different investments in different businesses since that helped me understand the importance of investing in different sectors.
I believe the assignment from Comm 312 helped to organize and structure a series of recommendations to a specific company having to follow different guidelines and specific criteria to develop a series of solutions for a given issue in a company. This provided me a better understanding of how to look at a problem from an outside perspective and find possible causes and their respective solutions. Secondly, the FAIR analysis helped me to recognize the communication practices of a company and learn how to analyze that data and understand it by using different criteria and especially using guidelines as the FAIR framework depending on the company and issue. Lastly, the course RSCH 300 taught me how to do a research project and showed me what the steps are and how they need to be followed to accomplish a well-informed and complete research project, teaching me how to look for information and how to interpret it depending on my needs.
A project or class that I liked was the one from my Business Law class, in this class apart from reviewing Canadian laws and getting a little deeper into how Canadian politics, rules and laws work, we also had the opportunity to do a mock trial which I found very fun and interactive, the professor divided the class into pairs and each pair had an assigned role, they could be a judge, they could be a defender or they could be the accused, he also gave the pairs different situations so that the case would not be repeated and in the mock everything was as if it were a real trial, I really liked this activity because it turned a class that at first seemed flat and not fun at all into one of the ones I remember the most and have liked the most from the university, not only because it was very interactive but also because I learned a lot and it sparked a special curiosity for the laws and how to apply them.
Hstm 210 (Food & Beverage Management)
In this course the final assignment was the best part; we put into practice the things learned in the 12 weeks, and it was really nice to be able to learn of a sector I am really interested in. Learning from this is nice, taking into account that my family has a restaurant, and being able to understand and let my family know the things I learned and how to apply was special.
MGMT (201)—The class is called Managing Innovation. This class focused on developing something new as a business, creating something of value, as the professor always said. The activity was to think about the activities we liked doing (hobbies) and transform them into a business. I liked this class because it made me realize what I wanted to do after graduating.
A useful project was from my marketing class, where we were encouraged to find a volunteer job. Through this, I was able to volunteer as an English tutor for students around the world. It turned out to be a very fulfilling experience where I not only helped others but also made great friends and expanded my network.
A useful project was a business analysis assignment from my business courses. It was incredibly helpful in showing us how real businesses operate, what challenges they face, and what strategies can impact success or failure. It gave me valuable insight into the real-world business environment.
PUBR 300
For this class, my group and I created a PR campaign focused on Vessi. This assignment was particularly helpful in understanding how to develop a campaign from scratch.
(MRKT 201). Personally, I love classes where I get to learn something new. Where you are not required to memorize content for the purpose of a final exam, this class was exactly that. One of my favorite projects in this class was to make a presentation regarding being a marketing lead for a business. The marketing terminology and the things I've learned in this class are going to be helpful in the future.
ANTH 102 – Introduction Cultural Identity and Assimilation in the Namesake
Project Name : Cultural Identity and Assimilation in the Namesake (2006 Film) This project involved researching and analyzing how cultural identity is shaped by social structures, traditions, and globalization. It required conducting interviews, analyzing anthropological theories, and comparing cultural practices and movie analyses. Skills Developed: Critical thinking, cross-cultural awareness, research skills, and effective communication—useful for careers involving diversity and global interactions.
SOCI 100 – Introduction to Sociology Project Name: Social Issues Documentary Review The assignment involved selecting a documentary on a pressing social issue, critically analyzing its arguments, and linking it to sociological theories. Skills Developed: Analytical thinking, social awareness, written communication, and media literacy—important for careers in advocacy, journalism, and education.
HSTM 101 – Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Management
Project Name: Sustainable Tourism Case Study
This project involved analyzing a tourism destination’s sustainability efforts, assessing their environmental and economic impacts, and proposing improvements. Skills Developed: Research, sustainability planning, customer service insights, and problem-solving—useful in the hospitality and tourism industry.
ORGB 201 - During this course, I did one project that is Personality Assessments and Career Growth: By analyzing my 16Personalities results, I gained insights into my strengths and weaknesses. This self-awareness will guide my career decisions and improve my teamwork and leadership skills.
COMM 207 - Film Review Assignment: I did this course in my 4th semester, and the project that I liked most was a film review project. This assignment taught me how to critically analyze films by evaluating their themes, cinematography, and storytelling techniques. These skills will help me in media-related roles and improve my analytical thinking.
COMM 201—I did one project, Evaluating Secondary Research: This assignment strengthened my research skills by teaching me how to assess the credibility and relevance of sources. This knowledge will be useful for academic writing and making informed decisions in professional environments.
PHIL 102 – Moral Philosophy
Assignment: Roleplay and Debate on Virtue Ethics
In this assignment, I participated in a roleplay as a wealthy philanthropist, viewing the world through the lens of virtue ethics. I learned to understand different perspectives and how to evaluate character traits as morally good or bad. This has strengthened my ability to make thoughtful, open-minded decisions in both personal and professional life.
MRKT 201 – Marketing
Assignment: Case Study Analysis (PromptHealth.ca) I analyzed the company’s website using various techniques such as SEO, backlinks, and SWOT analysis to assess how well it engaged its audience. This project taught me the importance of data-driven decision-making and helped me understand how to avoid unnecessary or ineffective marketing expenses in the future.
COMM 203: Conflict Resolution
Case Study I used communication theories to analyze a real-life situation (i.e., office conflict) and present practical recommendations. I am more equipped in leadership, problem-solving, interpersonal communication, and negotiation—all managerial and human resources job-required skills.
COMM 205 – Writing for Media:
Newsletter and Social Media Post
Creation I created a professional newsletter and a visually appealing social media post. These assignments helped me develop digital communication skills. I can now apply these skills in future marketing roles or even offer freelance social media management services to businesses.
MRKT 201: The project title was "Marketing Plan for a New Product." Throughout the project, we were required to design a complete marketing plan, such as market research, segmentation, price, and promotion strategies for a new hypothetical product. Throughout the project, I learned marketing skills that are extremely relevant in marketing, business, and entrepreneurship careers, like market analysis, strategic planning, brand innovation, and business communication.
HSTM 101: Destination Marketing Strategy is the title of the project. In this project, I came up with a marketing plan that promoted a tourist destination based on sustainability, cultural appeal, and target market. This was supplemented by research, event management, tourism management, and consumer engagement, which are also useful for hospitality, travel, and event management careers.
GEOG 101 – Physical Geography This was an amazing course. For our project, we explored weather forecasting and whether it is possible to predict earthquakes. I learned how global weather forecasting systems operate and how earthquakes occur. This project helped me improve my critical thinking about natural phenomena and global issues.
HSTM 101 – Hospitality and Tourism This course was truly adventurous. For an individual assignment titled "A Virtual Vacation," I took on the role of a tourist. I had to capture photos and videos to document a trip as if I were on vacation. This project gave me a unique experience of filming my journey, and now I have a personal travel video that I can watch anytime on my phone. It was a fun and creative way to reflect on travel and tourism.
ENGL 100 – Academic Writing
I took this course in my first semester, and one of the most helpful components was the debate segment. I clearly remember how the professor taught us to present opposing viewpoints, express our own opinions, and support them with proper evidence. This experience helped me build strong communication skills that will be useful in both my professional and personal life when presenting my ideas effectively.
PHIL 210 – Moral Philosophy
This course was entirely pen-and-paper based. We were assigned weekly readings and had to relate them to current events and real-life situations. One meaningful assignment was on manipulation theory, where we explored how politicians and businesses use manipulation techniques. This significantly changed how I perceive politics and business practices today and enhanced my awareness of ethical and unethical behavior in real-world scenarios.
CPSC 111 – Computer Applications II
This course focused entirely on Microsoft Excel, and it was one of the most practical and productive classes I’ve taken. I learned many features that significantly improve efficiency, such as selecting and editing specific sections quickly. These tools will save me time in both academic and professional tasks and have already proven helpful in personal organization.
ECOL 100 – Introduction to Ecology
This was one of the first courses I took, and it included a lab-based group project on species analysis. Working with others on this assignment helped me strengthen my ability to collaborate and increased my understanding of ecological systems and group-based scientific inquiry.
CPSC 110 – Computer Applications In this class, I learned how software and technology are used to perform tasks efficiently. The course covered topics such as databases, word processing, and presentation tools, and I became familiar with software like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. These tools have prepared me for future jobs where digital proficiency is essential.
BUSI 100 – Business Fundamentals
This course introduced me to how businesses operate in areas such as finance, marketing, and management, along with the role of technology in modern business. Understanding these fundamentals has prepared me for the possibility of launching my own startup and helped me develop critical decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills.
SOCI 100 – Sociology This course introduced me to the study of human society, social behavior, and interactions. My favorite part was exploring social structures and inequalities related to race, gender, and class, as well as understanding how society has evolved over time. It increased my awareness of social dynamics and contemporary issues.
COMM 207 – Visual Communication in Mass Media
Magazine Cover Design For this creative project, I designed a travel magazine cover titled “Wander” featuring the “Top 5 Destinations for Solitary Travel.” I learned how to use Canva and gained insight into color theory and visual composition. This project sparked my interest in design, and I now regularly use Canva for creative work.
PHIL 102 – Moral Assignment: Ethical Theory Presentation
In pairs, we were given multiple real-life scenarios to choose from and apply ethical theories to analyze them. This presentation helped me understand how to view situations from multiple perspectives and deepened my ability to think critically and ethically.
ORGB 201 – Organizational Assignment: Personality Assessment This was the first assignment of the course and also one of the most enjoyable. I completed an MBTI questionnaire and then reflected on whether I agreed with the results, using personal examples to support my response. This activity helped me better understand myself—my preferences, likes, and dislikes—which are often overlooked but play an important role in self-awareness and personal growth.
BUSI 100 – Business Fundamentals Assignment: Business Plan Project In this group assignment, we created a business plan for a car dealership company. It taught us how to plan a business, conduct research, and manage operations. This experience helped me understand the basics of entrepreneurship and how to save and invest for future business ventures.
SOCI 100 – Assignment: Take-Home Essay on the Komagata Maru As someone from a Sikh background, this assignment was especially meaningful. I learned about the Komagata Maru incident and its historical significance, including the memorial located at Canada Place. This assignment not only enriched my understanding of Canadian history but also gave me the ability to share this knowledge with others, especially family members visiting Canada.
BIOL 100 – Assignment: Take-Home Quiz on Cancer—Symptoms and Causes
In this assignment, I researched the causes, symptoms, and prevention of cancer. It gave me a deeper understanding of how cancer affects the human body and what steps can be taken to prevent or manage it. This knowledge is not only educational but also important for personal health awareness.
ENGL 100 – Academic Writing
In this course, I gained valuable knowledge about APA formatting, which has helped me greatly in preparing my assignments. One memorable assignment was about social media and mental health. While researching it, I learned how excessive time spent on social media can negatively impact mental well-being. After completing this assignment, I began limiting my screen time, which significantly improved my mental health. This project taught me to be more mindful of how I use social platforms.
ANTH 102 – Introduction to Anthropology
For one assignment, I focused on ethics and social responsibility, exploring topics like equality and environmental sustainability. This course helped me become more socially aware and respectful toward others. I now feel more prepared to work in any professional environment, as I understand the importance of ethical behavior and workplace manners—qualities that are widely appreciated.
COMM 205 – Writing for Media In this course
I practiced writing newsletters, blogs, and social media posts. My writing and grammar skills were initially weak, but through continuous writing practice, I significantly improved. Now, writing reports and assignments feels easy because I have developed strong and effective communication skills.
CPSC 111 – Business Analytics (Excel Training I & II)
Both projects in this course focused on using Microsoft Excel to present organized and meaningful information to a group. Each project emphasized different tools and functions, and by the end of the term, we were evaluated on all the functions we had learned. This hands-on training taught me how to organize, analyze, and present data clearly—an essential skill for any professional environment.
ACCT 140 – Accounting Principles This course involved real-life exercises using financial data and documents. We practiced completing various financial statements and learned the differences between the four main types. Understanding how they interconnect gave me valuable insight into how money flows within a company. This knowledge will help me manage finances more effectively if I start a business in the future.
PSYC 104 – Developmental, Personality, Social & Clinical Psychology
This course covered a wide range of psychological theories, with a strong emphasis on independent reading and reflection. For my final essay, I focused on classical conditioning and emotional response development. This taught me not only how behaviors can be shaped, but also how emotional connections are formed. The project also included a public presentation, which helped me refine my communication skills and better express complex ideas to an audience.
SOCI 100 – Introduction to Sociology Assignment: COVID-19 Reflection Essay
For this assignment, I reflected on my personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and connected them to sociological concepts, such as how individual struggles are linked to larger social issues. Skills Learned: I developed critical thinking, a deeper understanding of social problems, and the ability to express ideas clearly—skills that are valuable in both everyday life and the workplace
ENGL 102 – Academic Writing Assignment: Research Paper on Media and Disney
In this project, I explored how Disney movies portray race and ethnicity and whether they reinforce stereotypes. Skills Learned: I developed critical media literacy, research abilities, and analytical thinking. These skills help me better understand cultural messages in media and will benefit both my personal life and professional future.
COMM 203 – Information Gathering Assignment: Interview Transcript
This assignment helped me develop key skills such as communication, critical thinking, and self-reflection by requiring clear, structured responses and thoughtful evaluation of life experiences. It also strengthened my writing and organizational skills through presenting ideas in a well-structured format. These competencies are beneficial for both personal growth and professional success.
COMM 207 – Visual Communication in Mass Media Assignment: Film Analysis
This film analysis project deepened my understanding of how visual elements and storytelling techniques communicate messages and influence audiences. It strengthened my critical thinking, analytical writing, and media literacy by exploring cinematic themes, symbolism, and cultural narratives. These skills are valuable in fields involving communication, media analysis, and content creation.
COMM 205 – Writing for Assignment: News Release
This assignment helped me develop journalistic writing, headline crafting, and story structure. I also improved my press communication skills, learning how to tailor messages for specific audiences and report facts accurately. These are vital skills for careers in media, public relations, and corporate communication.
My study of "Crime Prevention Analysis" in CRIM 101 - Introduction to Criminology: I was involved researching genuine crime prevention methods followed by implementing criminological theories to develop solutions for reducing criminal behavior patterns. The analysis I performed built critical thinking capabilities with problem analysis abilities through research, which makes me qualified to serve in both law enforcement and public policy development or administrative positions.
The project at ECOM 102—Microeconomics analyzed "Market Analysis of a Competitive Industry" based on supply and demand and pricing approaches and consumer patterns from industry data through research and statistics. The project developed my ability for analytical thinking, economic expertise, and strategic decision-making, which will become essential for business strategy planning and financial leadership roles in entrepreneurship.
COMM 207 (Visual Communications in Mass Media) – Vancouver Tourism Video Project For this course, my team and I created a video promoting Vancouver tourism. We visited popular tourist spots, filmed the locations, and showcased the city’s beauty and attractions. The project involved shooting footage, editing clips, and adding background music and narration. This experience strengthened my teamwork and collaboration skills. I also learned basic video editing and improved my creative storytelling abilities. These skills can be useful for creating marketing content or promotional materials in the future, which could benefit me in business or entrepreneurial ventures.
MRKT 201 (Marketing Management)—Marketing Strategy Project on Fruiticana
In this project, I analyzed the marketing strategy of Fruiticana, an Indian grocery store. The project covered the store’s SWOT analysis, the 4Ps of marketing (product, price, place, and promotion), and its overall business strategy.I gained practical knowledge of marketing concepts and learned how to apply them to real businesses. This helped me understand how companies position their products and target customers effectively. The project also enhanced my analytical and problem-solving skills, which will be valuable in my future career, especially in business and marketing roles.
CPSC 110 (Computer Applications) Project: Database Management Project
For this project, I used MySQL to manage a database. I worked with a Transaction List file and organized the data into structured tables.Through this project, I learned the fundamentals of database management, data organization, and SQL queries—skills that are highly applicable in business analytics, IT, and data-driven decision-making in the future.
My favorite course, which I recently completed, was Visual Communication 207. The teacher assigned us a group project where we had to choose any subject or product and market it in our own way. There were three members in our group, including me. The product we chose to market was a pair of shoes. We had to create a short video to advertise the shoes in different ways. We made a two-minute video showing how the shoes could be worn anywhere while doing various activities—such as cooking, working out, and more—demonstrating that they are suitable for every situation. This group project completely changed my perspective on the visual presentation of products in the marketing field.
The course I would like to mention here is one taught by my favourite professor—Visual Communication in Mass Media (COMM 207)—which I recently completed. During this course, we had a group assignment where we had to promote something, and our topic was the Vancouver tourism industry. My group members and I visited various locations to shoot scenes, during which we learned new things about these places and had a lot of fun during the process. Through this project, I gained valuable insights such as the importance of teamwork in the right direction, effective time management, discipline, enjoyment, and experiencing new adventures—all of which will be useful in my future.
An interesting course I would like to mention is Introduction to Criminology (CRIM 101). I have always enjoyed reading about law and crime, and in this course, I learned many new things that will be very useful for me in the future—especially if I decide to pursue law full-time, as I aspire to become a lawyer or a judge. During the course, our professor asked us to record videos of ourselves explaining what we had learned in class and upload them to YouTube. At first, I was quite shy about sharing my videos on social media, but over time, I realized that the process helped me revise my notes effectively. My shyness gradually faded, and I began to feel more confident.
MRKT 201 (SWOT Analysis Project): In this project, I analyzed Amazon Canada's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This experience helped me develop research and analytical skills, which will be valuable for making informed business decisions in the future.
COMM 207 (Storyboard and Film Review)
In this project, I created a storyboard and reviewed a film in class, writing a detailed analysis. This activity enhanced my creativity, storytelling, and critical thinking skills—abilities that are valuable in marketing, content creation, and any job involving visual communication.
COMM 205 – Writing for Assignment: News Article Writing Project
For this assignment, I was given a current event and tasked with writing a news article about it using professional journalistic standards, including the inverted pyramid format and style.What I Learned: Through this project, I developed my research, fact-checking, and concise writing skills—all of which are essential for careers in communication, marketing, or personal branding.
POLI 102 – Politics and Government Assignment: Country Profile Report
This research paper required me to analyze the political structure, governance, and foreign policy of a specific country. Skills Developed: I enhanced my research, critical analysis, and comparative thinking skills. This assignment helped me stay informed about global politics and prepared me to make better decisions as both a global citizen and a professional.
BUSI 100 – Introduction to Assignment: Business Plan
For this assignment, we developed a business idea and created a comprehensive business plan covering marketing, operations, and finance. Skills Developed: I gained skills in business planning, entrepreneurship, and teamwork. These skills will be extremely valuable if I ever start my own business or manage a project in the future.
COMM496—Contemporary Topics in Communication
In this class I had a project that was divided into 5 different parts and was about international students in Canada. Not only did it help me understand the importance of good communicative development in the field to bring strategic solutions to problems and circumstances. In the personal area it helped me develop my writing skills, and in the same way I was able to develop strategic communication and interpersonal relationship skills.
COMM310—Technical Writing and Business Communications
The project that fascinated me the most in this class was the Final Recommendation Report since it was a feasibility report of results that were obtained from surveys and something in common that was about the problem of the West Pender campus of UCW. In this project I was able to develop economic development and provide different ideas and possible solutions that the university can take to solve the problem at the root. This project not only developed my skills but also helped me to be able to demonstrate these skills in real companies.
A work that I really liked and I think it was very creative is the MRKT 302, in this class we had the opportunity to create our own business from scratch and think of strategies on how to sell this business to the public, I think it was a very fun project because besides being interactive it was also a very creative project in which I felt part of a company and a group, the ideas flowed and the participants of the group also contributed a lot in the ideas and how the business would develop in the work environment, I feel that this class is one of the ones that has helped me the most for the future and more than anything in how to work as a team in order to meet the goals set and be much more creative.
Comm 260 (Content Creation)
For this course, I had some great experience with a specific project, not because of something new I learned, but because the project made me go back to the day I arrived in Canada. It was very simple—just tell the story of when I arrived. It made me realize how far I’ve come and how I have developed myself. The project name was blog assignment.
Fnce 301 (Investments)
In this course it was not a project but the entire class. Learning of this topic was really interesting. I had some idea, but after the class I had the knowledge to keep learning, and I’ve been able to do some cool things on the stock market. This was very useful also because of the professor’s experience that made it interesting because he applied his knowledge to the real world.
BUSI (489)—Business Capstone 2: Rather than an activity, the whole class was about presenting a business idea and then a final report. Presenting has never been my forte, but thanks to this class and its continuous presentations, I developed my presenting skills. I basically presented every class on each part of the business, allowing me to present different areas.
An interesting project was creating a personal portfolio in my COMM312 class. This helped me better understand how to present my values, tell my story, and showcase my creativity. It gave me a solid foundation for building professional portfolios, which has already opened several opportunities for me.
COMM 498 – Communication Capstone II
I really enjoyed this class, particularly the final assignment where I had to pitch myself to my dream company. We were asked to choose an existing company from any industry and present a case for why they should hire us. I chose a film production company based in Montreal and created a detailed report and presentation on how I would communicate and position myself as a valuable candidate. This assignment helped me sharpen my self-promotion and professional communication skills.
COMM 360 – Digital Storytelling
This course was both informative and practical. One of my personal goals was to develop storytelling skills, and this course focused on how to create your own podcast. The final assignment was to produce a complete podcast episode, built progressively through smaller assignments throughout the term. Each assignment taught us a new technique, which we later used to plan, record, and edit our own podcast. As someone who aspires to become a travel blogger, I found this course extremely valuable.
FNCE 301 – Investments
This was a very interesting and engaging course. It taught me how to analyze financial markets from an investment perspective. One of the highlights was building a class stock portfolio, where each student acted as a financial analyst by selecting a stock. Throughout the term, we analyzed the performance of our stocks weekly and updated our decisions on whether to hold or sell, along with justifications. This hands-on approach gave me a strong foundation in market analysis, and I now feel confident investing my own money in the stock market.
COMM 498 I worked on creating a communication plan for a cancer support program in Vancouver. This required researching how to establish the support program, developing its structure, and designing a communication plan to attract participants and secure funding.
COMM 310
The first project itself, when you made it so interactive for the students, you knew I would love this course. It was the project where I was an immigration consultant and some of my classmates were my clients. I had a great time advising them and learning the skill of professional communication. I will always remember such moments from this class and take it with me.
COMM 140 – Business Communication Project Name: Professional Business Proposal
This assignment required creating a formal business proposal for a startup idea, including market analysis, business strategy, and communication techniques. Skills Developed: Professional writing, business communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking—beneficial in corporate and entrepreneurial settings.
HIS 305 – Twentieth-Century Canada; Project Name: Canadian Policy Analysis Presentation
This group project involved researching key Canadian policies in the 20th century and analyzing their long-term impacts on society and governance. Skills Developed: Public speaking, historical analysis, teamwork, and policy evaluation—valuable for roles in government, law, and research.
GEOG 101 – Introduction to Geography Project Name: Urban Development and Climate Change Report
This assignment required studying the impact of urbanization on climate change and suggesting sustainable urban planning strategies. Skills Developed: Environmental awareness, data analysis, policy evaluation, and strategic planning—beneficial for careers in urban planning, environmental consulting, and public policy.
PHIL 210—In this course, we have a group debate project in class, and engaging in debates enhanced my ability to construct logical arguments and think critically under pressure. These skills are essential for persuasive communication in academic and professional settings.
COMM 150—Well, I took alot of communication courses, and in this course I had one assignment that was Social Media Post Creation. I learned how to create a Facebook/Instagram post with key marketing elements and improved my content creation and digital marketing skills, which will be valuable for promoting businesses and engaging online audiences.
COMM 205—-I am doing this course this semester and the most interesting concept that I liked the Op-Ed Assignment, in which I learned how to Write an opinion editorial, honed my persuasive writing skills, allowing me to express viewpoints effectively and engage audiences—a crucial skill for journalism, business, and public relations
SJCJ 101 – Social Assignment: Photographic Essay
For this project, I took eight photographs representing different social concepts such as patriarchy and oppression. I learned how injustice appears in workplaces and schools and how to recognize and prevent it. This experience has made me more aware of social injustices and how to address them.
CPSC 110 – Computer Applications Assignment: Digital Analysis using Excel and Word
This course included various mini assignments focused on MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SQL. One of the key tasks involved analyzing data in Excel and preparing reports in Word. These practical skills will be very helpful for my future office jobs and professional documentation tasks.
MRKT 223 – Digital Marketing Strategy; Assignment: Social Media Ad Campaign
In this assignment, I created an email list using Mailchimp to send targeted campaigns and improve product performance. This refined my marketing skills and gave me hands-on experience with email marketing. I believe tools like Mailchimp make you a strong candidate for marketing roles. If I start my own business in the future, this skill will help me maintain strong relationships with my customers and stay directly connected to them. This assignment even led me to an interview opportunity.
SOCI 100: During this course, I had to produce a Social Issue Analysis Report. As part of the assignment, sociological theory was used to research and analyze an ongoing social issue (e.g., gender roles or economic inequality). My critical thinking capacity, analysis of data, and understanding regarding society structures have all been significantly improved as a result of this learning. They can also prove useful when applying for policymaking as a career, human resources, and social research.
COMM 102: Professional Business Report & Presentation is the project title. Formal business report writing and presenting on a business problem were the requirements of this project. These skills it learns are public speaking, business writing, professional communication, and persuasion—each one of which is crucial in any managerial or corporate role.
PHIL 102: Analysis of Ethical Dilemmas is the project title. This exercise entailed the use of philosophical theories (i.e., utilitarianism and deontology) in resolving a presented ethical dilemma. The critical thinking, analytical skills, and decision-making based on ethical grounds that I have acquired are transferable to law, business ethics, and leadership.
COMM 150 – Current Issues in Communication and Media
This course covered many important topics, but the most interesting one for me was a project on Artificial Intelligence and Deepfakes. I gained insight into both the ethical and unethical uses of AI. It taught me how to use AI responsibly and raised my awareness about its impact on media and society
SJCJ 101 – Introduction to Social Justice One of the major assignments in this course was a photographic essay, where we had to take a real-life photo representing injustice and write an argumentative essay about it. This assignment deepened my understanding of justice and injustice, and it taught me the importance of making the right decisions when witnessing unfair treatment in society.
BUSI 100 – Introduction to Business
In this course, our main project focused on planning a business. My team and I aimed to create a unique business model, and after doing ground-level research, we chose to propose a tiffin service. We visited various food outlets and small home businesses to understand the market. This project helped me grasp the basics of business setup and the essential elements involved in creating a solid business plan.
ANTH 102 – Introduction to Anthropology
This is a course I’m currently taking. One of the projects focused on racism and sexuality, where I watched the movie Moonlight and connected it with class concepts. This was eye-opening for me—I learned about different types of sexuality, a topic I previously knew little about. This project changed my personal views on gender identity and showed me the importance of understanding gender and sexuality in Canadian society.
HTSM 101 – Hospitality and Tourism
The highlight of this course was a structured class debate. The class was divided into two sides—pro and con—and I was part of the pro team, debating how tourism influences technology in Canada. I researched examples like Coquitlam and Science World on Main Street. I also served as team leader for a group of 13 students, managing the compilation of assignments, reports, and presentations. This role taught me valuable management skills that will benefit my future career and personal growth.
BIOL 100 – Modern Biology
In this course, I studied living organisms and their interactions with the environment. We explored how DNA and genes influence traits and how natural selection drives evolution. This course helped me understand life at both the molecular and ecological levels, with applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
HSTM 101 – Hospitality and Tourism
In this class, I learned how to manage and open businesses in industries such as hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and event planning. I also gained insights into how hotel management focuses on delivering excellent guest experiences. This course prepared me for careers in airlines, resorts, hotels, and other tourism-related sectors.
HIST 305 – Canadian Urban History
In this course, I learned about Canada’s urban history. One of the projects I enjoyed most involved reviewing assigned academic articles and giving classroom presentations. Every week, four students presented different articles, which helped me expand my knowledge of Canadian history through diverse perspectives and discussions.
CPSC 110 – Computer Applications Assignment: Microsoft Excel Mini Project This assignment involved applying different Excel formulas to a dataset. It greatly improved my Excel skills and has been very useful in my current work, where I often need to create and manage spreadsheets efficiently.
MRKT 201 – Marketing Management Assignment: Marketing Plan (Group Project) For this group project, we created a marketing plan for an existing business and presented it in class. I learned about the various marketing strategies businesses use to attract consumers. This knowledge now helps me identify marketing tactics in real life and make more informed, mindful decisions as a consumer
BUSI 100 – Business Fundamentals Assignment: Business Plan (Group Project)
In this assignment, we had to choose a business idea and develop a complete business plan, including market analysis and strategic planning. It not only helped me in this course but also provided a strong foundation for other business-related courses. Now, I feel confident discussing business plans and contributing to conversations with informed opinions.
CPSC 110 – Computer Applications Assignment: Excel, Word, and PowerPoint Projects
This course, which I took in my first semester, focused on developing skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Practicing these tools improved my digital literacy and continues to help me in academic and professional tasks. I know these skills will remain useful in the future.
COMM 207 – Visual Communication in Mass Media Assignment: Mask Project This creative assignment helped me explore the deeper meanings behind sculptural masks. It enhanced my creative thinking, visual storytelling, and communication skills, all of which are valuable in fields like media, marketing, and design.
ECON 105 – Introduction to Assignment: Term Paper on Unemployment and Regional Mobility in Canada For this assignment, I conducted in-depth research, mainly using official sources like the IRCC website. I gathered a lot of useful information about unemployment trends and regional mobility across Canada. This knowledge will be valuable in understanding labor market issues, both for academic purposes and future career planning.
PHIL 201 – Ethics and Corporate Responsibility For one of the assignments in this course, I had to select a brand and examine one of its recent scandals. This project exposed me to corporate ethics, governance failures, and the consequences of unethical practices. I became more critical and aware of the reality behind brand images and their products. Now, before purchasing any product, I research its background, giving me confidence in my consumer choices.
HSTM 101 – Hospitality and Tourism This course involved several class debates on various topics. These debates helped me build strong communication skills and boosted my self-confidence when presenting my point of view. I now feel much more comfortable speaking in public or during interviews, thanks to the speaking practice I gained throughout the semester.
MRKT 201 – Marketing Management In this course, I completed a project on marketing strategies, applying theories like positioning, branding, and consumer behavior. This assignment helped me understand how businesses increase reach, growth, and profitability. Since I aim to start my own business in the future, learning these strategies was especially important for me.
PHIL 102 – Moral Philosophy
The projects in this course required a deep understanding of philosophical concepts such as Sartre’s existentialism and Kant’s deontology. Though these ideas may not seem directly applicable to daily life, the course sharpened my skills in critical reading, writing, and brainstorming. Reading complex texts in English was challenging but rewarding, and the process gave my mind a complete workout in logical reasoning and abstract thinking.
COMM 207 – Visual Communication in Mass Media In addition to the mask project, this course included several assignments that required the creation of visually appealing presentations. We applied design principles discussed in class—such as color theory, layout, and audience engagement—to real projects. These skills will be especially helpful in the future when I need to present information effectively or stand out in competitive environments.
MRKT 223 – Digital Marketing Strategy For the final project, we designed a full marketing campaign for a local business aimed at improving their sales and public visibility. Although I didn’t enjoy the course as much, I recognized the value in understanding how creativity and strategy influence consumer behavior. Even if marketing isn’t my primary interest, this experience taught me the importance of having a basic knowledge of various fields and how it can help build connections and contribute in real-life situations.
POLI 102 – Introduction to Political Science Assignment: Essay on Political Systems In this essay, I compared two types of government systems—presidential and parliamentary—and discussed their advantages and disadvantages. Skills Learned: I improved my research and argumentation skills and gained a better understanding of political systems. This knowledge will help me make more informed decisions as a responsible citizen.
COMM 205 – Writing for Assignment: Newsletter For this assignment, we wrote news content on a selected topic and formatted it for publication in a newsletter or magazine. Skills Learned: This task helped me build a strong foundation in professional news writing, combining written content with visual elements. I learned how newsletters are structured and how to create engaging, informative content for a wider audience.
ENGL 100 – Academic Writing Assignment: Persuasive Essay
In this assignment, we were required to write an essay on a specific topic using topic sentences, thesis statements, citations, and critical thinking. Skills Learned: This assignment improved my academic writing and taught me how to correctly use APA-style citations. It helped me structure essays clearly, support arguments with evidence, and express ideas more effectively.
BUSI 100 – Business Fundamentals Assignment: Business Plan Report.
In this project, we developed a business model for a new company, including market analysis, target audience research, and financial planning. Skills Learned: This assignment gave me a clear understanding of how a business is planned and launched. It taught me the importance of analyzing strengths, weaknesses, and market conditions before starting a business—valuable knowledge for anyone pursuing a career in business.
COMM 140 – Business Communication Assignment: Memo Writing This memo-writing task helped me develop professional communication, concise writing, and critical thinking by crafting formal, structured messages. It also enhanced my attention to detail and organizational skills, which are essential for clear and effective workplace communication—key to success in any professional setting.
COMM 105 – Conversational Writing Assignment: Radio-Podcast Script
This assignment developed my skills in conversational writing, script structuring, and audience engagement. It improved my ability to write for audio platforms with clarity and impact. I also enhanced my storytelling and audio awareness, making this especially valuable for roles in broadcasting, media production, and digital content creation.
ENGL 102 – Critical Analysis and Writing Assignment: Debate
The debate assignment sharpened my critical thinking, argumentation, and public speaking skills. I learned how to conduct thorough research, persuade effectively, and deliver strong rebuttals while practicing active listening. These skills are transferable to many fields, including law, communication, marketing, and leadership roles.