So far, I have learned that the MSc in Finance is more than just a degree—it’s a journey that tests and transforms you. In this blog, I’d like to highlight three things that were especially important to me as I progressed in this program.
1. Take It Easy on Yourself When Adjusting to a New Country
Moving to a new country or city can feel overwhelming. The cultural differences, unfamiliar streets, and new routines may seem daunting, but it’s important to be patient with yourself. Don’t expect to adjust overnight.
When I first arrived in Vancouver, I was so focused on academics that I didn’t give other activities the attention they deserved. I overlooked how much small efforts—like discovering new restaurants, joining activities like climbing, or finding quiet places to reflect—could help. Eventually, when I explored these things, I realized how much I had been missing out on. Running became a way to clear my head and feel more connected to my environment.
These steps, which I initially dismissed, helped me feel at home and allowed me to enjoy the journey rather than constantly rushing through it. I believe this could work for you too! Give yourself the grace to adapt, and don’t forget to have fun.
2. Build Strong Friendships
My grandpa always quoted this famous saying: “Sticks tied together do not break easily.” This couldn’t be truer for the MSc Finance journey. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends makes all the difference.
I realized that making friends wasn’t just about socializing—it was about building a support system. My friends became teammates for late-night study sessions, people to bounce ideas off, and partners for academic discussions. We challenged each other, shared insights, and grew together.
It wasn’t all work, though. Some of my favorite moments were when we took time to relax. I remember having hot pot dinners with my friends to unwind after an intense week. Activities like these—whether it’s a shared meal or just hanging out—are essential for maintaining balance.
3. Resilience Is an Iterative Process
One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my MSc Finance program is that resilience is built little by little, every day, rather than having everything figured out all at once. Whether it was mastering a difficult concept or refining ideas with my study group, I realized that progress comes from consistent effort. I also learned the importance of stepping away when things got overwhelming. Running, climbing, and playing the guitar helped me reset my mind and return to my work with fresh energy.
If I could leave you with one takeaway, it’s this: resilience is a personal journey. For me, it was about adapting to a new environment, building strong friendships, and improving daily through small, deliberate steps.
As you navigate your own MSc Finance journey, surround yourself with supportive people, enjoy the experience, and trust in your ability to grow. You can do it!
About the Author
Khayui Muivah is an MSc Finance candidate at SFU Beedie, holding a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Delhi. As the class representative for the MSc Finance cohort on the Graduate Business Student Association (GBSA) committee, he is committed to advocating for his peers and enhancing student engagement. A passionate advocate for community-building, Khayui brings energy and leadership to his role, striving to make every student’s experience at Beedie more connected and vibrant.