I was first in my family to go to college, so we deemed many moments special and worthy of celebration during my four-year undergraduate journey. Walking across the stage at graduation felt like a group victory because I could not have gotten there alone; it was thanks to many years of sacrifice by my immigrant parents, and the lessons they've taught me about dedication and hard work. They have been, and continue to be, my greatest supporters.
During my time in the BCom program, I also learnt amongst bright minds from all over the world, made lifelong friendships, grew professionally and personally, and became more independent while living in a multicultural city that is now my home away from home.
I came to understand that beyond academics, the people and resources you encounter at college will leave a far greater impact than any textbook ever could. For me, this meant getting out of my comfort zone and being proactive. Unlike high school where your days are structured and require little to no planning, college is full of decision-making, and it's up to you to get out there and do.
I would tell my 18-year-old freshman self to hang on tight because, once she gets on, this roller coaster has no end. She's going to experience all the highs and all the lows; she's going to get to know success only by persevering through failure. That shy, introverted, curious girl will become a tour guide for a while, where she will lead groups of prospective students and parents across McGill's beautiful downtown campus (otherwise known as the constant construction zone). It is here that she will learn to enjoy talking for hours on end. Whether or not she believes me, she'll gain enough confidence to eventually become her team's designated speaker in a five-hour simulation for collective bargaining.
So, my advice for future BComs: get to know your peers, be inspired by your professors' research, grow your network, pursue student clubs, volunteer, ask questions, seek help when you need it, attend workshops to build skills, make an appointment to meet your career advisor much earlier. Try, fail, and repeat—and do not let that energy and excitement fade! The years will fly by so quickly, so assess your surroundings, take it all in, and cherish every moment.
At Desautels, I was introduced to a world full of opportunity, explored topics in classroom discussions, belonged in an environment that allowed diversity to thrive, and doors continue to open because I am Made by McGill.
Melissa Wong
Majors in HR and Labour Relations
BCom Class of 2017
