The current time of uncertainty has drastically altered the future for the Class of 2020 across the world. Despite the challenges that we now face together, being part of the 100th graduating class of McGill University’s Bachelor of Commerce program is an exciting achievement.
My classmates and I had many memorable experiences while studying in McGill. For me, there was one trip in particular, in which I had the privilege of representing the entire McGill community as a Student Fellow in the McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York. This unique opportunity enabled me to engage in dialogue and share McGill’s perspectives with international leaders from diverse backgrounds ranging from academia and public service to non-profits and businesses serving communities around the globe.
From this experience, I gained a newfound appreciation for what it takes to be a leader. I learned that authentic leaders are ones who think critically by examining a problem and the possible solutions from a 360° perspective; take a step back to filter new information and ideas; and embrace diversity of thought, culture and experience. They ask the right questions that inspire their team’s creativity to make their solutions stronger and lead them to success.
As I reflected on this conference, I discovered several key points to retain and share with any McGill student—including my first-year self:
- Have conviction in your vision, but remain self-aware so you can adapt to new situations and own up to your mistakes.
- Never burn bridges, only fold them (i.e. be respectful and do not create enemies).
- Commit yourself to life-long learning: reflect on your experiences, achievements and failures to improve yourself.
- Lead with inquiry, rather than with advocacy, by asking questions to understand the world. Train your ears to listen and pick up different tones (i.e. perspectives), rather than simply listening to the loudest sound.
- Be fearless when faced with new situations, people or experiences to help develop practical wisdom.
I hope my findings will inspire any current or future Bachelor of Commerce graduates to reach their dreams as they enter a world with many challenges and celebrate their achievements as leaders who were Made by McGill.
Matthew Wilson
Major in Finance with Concentration in Business Analytics
BCom Class of 2020
