As an international student from Bangladesh, starting my MBA at Simon Fraser University has been an exciting yet challenging adventure. Adjusting to a new country, a new academic environment, and a completely different culture made my first semester unforgettable.
Living in the student residence has been a key part of my experience. Though I was nervous at first, it quickly became a supportive community. Meeting fellow students from around the world has expanded my worldview and helped me feel at home. The transition hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding.
Academically, the first semester at SFU has been intense. Coming from a corporate banking background, I was familiar with numbers and financial concepts, but the MBA program pushed me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. The focus here is beyond just the theories but on applying concepts to real-world situations. Courses have been challenging, but I especially appreciate their encouragement with critical thinking and problem-solving. The discussions we had in class, where we shared our experiences and aligned them with well-established theories, made every lesson feel more like a dynamic discussion panel than a traditional class. It’s a far cry from what I was used to in Bangladesh, and I’m grateful for how much I’ve learned. The opportunity SFU provides to participate in case competitions has been a particular highlight – it’s been thrilling to bring my experience to the table and work with my team to solve complex business problems.
Adjusting to Canadian culture has been a learning experience. Canadian values like open-mindedness and inclusivity have made SFU a welcoming place. While I’ve occasionally felt like an outsider, the sense of community here has helped me find my place. The fear of loneliness I had before arriving has proven unnecessary, thanks to my supportive cohort and residence community.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of balance. The MBA program is demanding, but it’s crucial to take time to connect with others and have fun. Representing SFU in the BC MBA Games was a great example of how extracurricular activities can enrich your experience. It taught me how to balance academics with networking and building relationships.
As I wrap up my first semester, I feel proud of my growth. The challenges I’ve faced have taught me resilience, time management, and adaptability. While this is just the beginning, I’m excited for what’s ahead and confident in my journey.
About the Author
Sara Fatema Chowdhury holds an undergraduate degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and Economics. She worked as a corporate and commercial banker for five years before joining the full-time MBA program at Simon Fraser University. Sara served as the Team Captain for SFU at the BC MBA Games 2024 and is an active participant in case competitions. Her team won the live case competition at the BC MBA Games 2024.