“Since joining the Telfer School of Management, I’ve had an eventful two years. It’s been a time of many accomplishments, setbacks, and yet countless opportunities for growth. While I’ve realized that every situation can be regarded as a learning experience, it’s also become clear that most students found it tough adjusting to the hurdles imposed by the pandemic. This year especially, there’s been a dire need for uOttawa’s support systems.
Back in my first year, I was almost overwhelmed with all the things Telfer had to offer. Clubs, networking events, and case competitions made for an awesome first two terms. Working as a student ambassador, representing Telfer, was also an incredible experience: helping incoming students decide on their postsecondary institution brought me a sense of purpose. Having been there to grant them insight on Telfer’s opportunities and ultimately acquainting them with the path that will lead them towards their personal goals was amazing! But then everything stopped. The 2020 winter term ended abruptly, and suddenly we had much greater worries than our jobs and studies; our health was at risk.
Working full-time as Telfer’s Regional Mentor, I saw first-hand how incoming first-year students dealt with this kind of situation. The need for support and counsel was as important as ever. New students didn’t know what to expect and many felt that they were stuck on their own at home. However, through its various resources, the University of Ottawa has made its commitment to helping students adapt increasingly evident. Thus, our efforts transitioned online, where our continuous support ensured that students were able to find answers to any of their enrolment, academic, or service-related queries. With all this global uncertainty, it was vital that they at least received correct information to help them make further educated decisions about their future.
That is to say: Telfer allowed me not only to help other students, but also to gain valuable work-study experience and to feel like part of a community that cares for the success of its members. I am extremely grateful to have had such opportunities!”
– Lukas Wirz-Endrys, 3rd-year International Management student, Ottawa Regional Mentor Region, and former Telfer Student Ambassador
Inspired by Brandon Stanton’s Humans of New York, this weekly feature of the Telfer Career Blog will contain photography of individuals from the Telfer School of Management community and a corresponding narrative that gives us a glimpse into their lives.
