When I first joined the MBA program at SFU’s Beedie School of Business, I kept hearing how “networking is everything.” At first, I thought that meant shaking hands at corporate mixers or collecting LinkedIn connections. But over time, I realized that networking in business school goes far deeper as it’s about building real, human connections that can shape your personal and professional journey. One of the most powerful forms of networking starts with your own cohort. These are the people you study with, stress over assignments with, and push through late nights during case competitions. Some of them will become your closest friends. In my case, they’ve become the core of my support system.
What makes this community special is learning from each other’s strengths. We come from diverse backgrounds in finance, marketing, tech, and healthcare. Hence, you start to see where everyone shines through group projects and challenges. It’s in those moments you realize that collaboration is the new competition. You grow more when you lift each other than trying to do everything alone.
One of the biggest highlights of my MBA journey so far has been representing Beedie at the MBA Games 2025, held in Vancouver this January. As the captain of the basketball team, I got to experience firsthand how sports can bring people together and how leadership, communication, and trust on the court mirror what we need in the workplace. The Games were more than just athletic events. There were academic challenges and spirit competitions, all centered around teamwork and resilience.
We also participated in case competitions, which were a chance to apply what we learned in class and to engage with students from across the country. These moments reminded me that networking doesn’t always happen in suits and formal settings, and sometimes it happens over shared wins, problem-solving under pressure, and cheering each other on.
Beyond competitions and events, I’ve found that the most valuable connections come when you approach people with curiosity and kindness. Never assume someone has nothing to offer because they don’t work in your field. Ask questions. Learn their story. Everyone has something to teach you if you’re open enough to listen. I’ve met mentors, collaborators, and friends by being genuinely interested in others.
As a student ambassador, I often tell new students to treat every interaction like it could lead to something meaningful instead of treating it just professionally. Some of my best lessons have come from casual hallway chats, group study sessions, or post-event dinners with classmates.
Business school is not just about grades or landing the next job but the people you meet along the journey. Build those relationships with intention. You never know where they’ll take you.
About the Author
Deven Adajania is a full-time MBA candidate at Simon Fraser University’s Beedie School of Business, where he also serves as a Student Ambassador. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and has professional experience as a Business Analyst. Deven served as the Sports Captain for SFU Beedie at the MBA Games 2025, leading his team through athletic and academic competitions. He is passionate about leadership, entrepreneurship, and building meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom.