Ivey Alumni Wisdom
HBA 1954
Bob Adams
Be yourself; everybody else is taken.
HBA 1960
Kenneth E Loucks, MBA 65, PhD 74
Change will continue to impact all the functional areas of management but the take charge attitude acquired at Ivey will stay with you for a lifetime of opportunity identification and problem solving.
Robert J.A. Wildman
“The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary’’. Follow this and you will always end up on top.
HBA 1961
Chuck Austin
Use your expertise to assist not-for-profit organizations. I became a partner of EY and used my expertise in Edmonton as President of the Edmonton Symphony Society to successfully lead this organization from a $1.2 million deficit to a balanced budget and virtually no deficit. I also served as a Member of the Board of Governors of the Edmonton Concert Hall Foundation and participated in restructuring the Board and developing a business plan for this successful $55 million project.
HBA 1962
Anonymous
Success comes from many factors but hard work is among the most important.
HBA 1962
Anonymous
Success comes from many factors but hard work is among the most important.
HBA 1963
Ken Hardy
From time to time look around you in the classroom and ask yourself, "Who would I like to work with after graduation ?" Odds are you will work with many of your former classmates over the years. I know, I did.
HBA 1964
Peter Harris
There is no substitute for a broad general experience particularly when there are very few bright line answers to the myriad of career issues which will confront you- so resist specializing too early.
Keith Gloster
If a leadership opportunity presents itself to you - and you believe you qualify ! - ACCEPT the position ! - the worse that can happen is you couldn't do it, and you are relieved of the opportunity ! SO many in life, regret " the road NOT taken " !
HBA 1965
Douglas Reddon
Network with fellow classmates, Stay in touch !!! Learning never stops.
HBA 1967
David Walsh
In deciding on what job opportunity to pursue upon graduation, take time to explore career opportunities that may be different, but fit with your values and vision. When I graduated, I had interviews with consumer marketing companies, but decided to start with a commercial real estate company, and then formed my own company with a partner. This gave me the freedom to pursue social enterprise and innovative start-ups that I would not have been able to do if I worked for a corporation.
HBA 1968
Barry Goode
In deciding on what job opportunity to pursue upon graduation, take time to explore career opportunities that may be different, but fit with your values and vision. When I graduated, I had interviews with consumer marketing companies, but decided to start with a commercial real estate company, and then formed my own company with a partner. This gave me the freedom to pursue social enterprise and innovative start-ups that I would not have been able to do if I worked for a corporation.
Collin Craig
There are opportunities everywhere - just look and listen.
Michael Pearce, Ivey Eminent Teaching Professor Emeritus
I graduated 55 years ago and at the time thought very highly of myself and my classmates. However, looking back, I didn't understand what we had really learned during our time at Ivey. It wasn't the concepts, techniques or facts that we thought we had mastered while studying cases. Instead, we acquired new habits that have stood the test of time, including: to be curious, to listen to other points of view, to adhere to principles, to challenge conventional thinking, to marshal arguments for ideas, to step into leadership roles effectively and so much more -- all of which prepared us for a lifetime of meaningful contributions in a wide variety of endeavours. During this new time of pervasive information (think artificial intelligence) and social anxiety, I hope every HBA graduate appreciates the tremendous importance of these habits and uses them for good.
HBA 1969
Louis Michel Gratton
Lessons learned at Ivey will serve you in all aspects of your life. For my part, a career in asset-based lending, along with one in politics and now another as a writer would not have been possible without the discipline learned during my years at Ivey. For more information visit my web site.
louismichelgratton.com
HBA 1972
John Purkiss, MBA 76
Trust yourself. I made some false starts, but I ended up banking $50 million & having a wonderful life. Good luck: as the Americans say, "If you can choose to be smart or lucky, pick lucky!"
As Walt Disney said "The harder I work, the luckier I get"
Lorne Goldstein
Yesterday a group of 5 individuals from the Ivey class of 1972 met to have lunch. We all agreed that the best piece of advice we learned at the Biz School was -if there is a business problem- analyze the data you have and make a decision on how to deal with a problem. We were taught that indecision creates anxiety and does not allow you to proceed. Once you have made the decision you will clearly see if it is correct or incorrect. If you are incorrect then you can make a correction and change your decision based on reality. Inaction will create chaos for you and your organization.
Good luck with your chosen career.
HBA 1973
Anonymous
Never give up!!
Tim Wright
In management there is rarely one right or wrong answer. The goal should be to reach a good (or the best solution) and avoid bad solutions. During my time at Ivey it became apparent to me they weren’t teaching what the right answer was, they were teaching you the processes you should follow, the questions you should ask and how you should involve the people around you to reach those good or best answers. In my 35 years of experience as a senior health care executive I always remembered the process aspect of my education. A carefully thought out process for how you should not only solve the problem but also how you define the problem in the first place always helped me to clarify the layers of fog and mist which were present in almost all management and leadership situations.
HBA 1974
Bruce Shirreff
A person leads by creating a vision of the future, not the past. Life is good so make the most of it.
David Harding
Find a job in the industry in which you'd like to eventually have your own business. Learn every aspect - accounting, production, distribution, product development, business development, sales, QA, IT - before venturing out on your own.
Scott Irwin
Two pieces of advice actually.
When the the HBA 74 graduates entered the workforce, cell phones and the internet didn’t exist. Things change fast. Anticipate change. Embrace change. Try to get ahead of it.
Facts and information are really important. But teasing out a new direction based on the facts and getting buy-in from your team and motivating them to embrace the new direction are the skill sets that will set you up for your future success.
Jim Doran
Trust your gut feel.
Shirley Roberts
1) Choose a career that you are passionate about.
2) Getting a book published is a great way to promote your business expertise.
3) Be proactive rather than reactive in business and in life.
4) Find a good mentor.
5) Determination and hard work pay off.
6) Become a good listener.
HBA 1975
Jim Corneau
LIFE IS SHORT DO NOT WAIT TO REALIZE YOUR DREAMS
Beverly Davids
As a woman in Business (there weren't many when I graduated) and just as a business person, my ideas and opinions have equal value to those of all other people. This starts with the belief in myself, translating into confidence that I can hold me own with the best of my peers.
Brian Foster
No matter what you think you know and all that Ivey taught you, there's a whole bunch more to learn. Leave your Ivey ego at the door and use what it taught you to learn more and grow. Each day is a case study.
Dave Williams
When I entered IVEY in year 3, I was under the illusion that all my questions would be answered by the time I graduated. In reality, what I learned in Ivey was how much I didn’t know and what are the right questions to ask.
HBA 1976
Rob Orser
I feel I have used the problem-solving approach every day both in business and in my volunteer activities.
Chris Laubitz
Our careers are like marathons. You need to manage your pace, there will be setbacks as well as wins along the way. Give it your best shot and you will be recognized. Every time you are faced with a new challenge seek out a mentor.
Wanting to be a winner is natural but the truth is you will not win every time. Just make sure the scope,, depth, quality, and actionability of your work are outstanding. Always offer options if possible.
In your early years always practice first in and last out. For the job, for every meeting and any other environment where being noticed is important. First in and first out easily gives you the opportunity to have minor conversations with more senior leaders etc
HBA 1978
Doreen Harvey
People matter, your team matters and, as a leader, you are responsible for ensuring that you create a culture that engages and brings out the best in the people who work with you. That's how businesses succeed. Oh, and remember - people work WITH you and not FOR you.
Dean Connor
At some point in your career, work outside of Canada—preferably the US or Asia—because the pace and risk-taking run far ahead of Canada. When you return, you’ll make Canadian business a better place!
HBA 1979
Doug Gilbert
It is beneficial to have a positive but realistic view, be prompt getting back to people, always complete what you committed to, and do not be afraid to make a decision—no decision is the wrong decision.
HBA 1980
Bruce Barber
Ivey leaves you well-prepared to deal with major strategic decisions. Often these don’t happen in your career until later. Sometimes 5-10 years later. Be prepared for a lot of simple detailed work in the beginning and you’ll progress quickly to the higher-level stuff.
Peter Daboll
Have fun! 2. Don't be afraid to fail and start over. 3. The only job security is belief in yourself. (in that order). Don't just manage, lead.
HBA 1981
Jeff Hill
Learn new skills. Move laterally. Ask for stretch assignments. I started in Marketing and finished my career in IT project management. Who knew?
Rick Masters
Keep current with your contacts from Ivey after graduation. Ivey peers are great resources.
Beverly Behan
There is a notable difference between having a job and having a vocation. A job is something you do to pay the bills; even if it pays well, it's often relatively unsatisfying. You use the money to try to bolster your sense of purpose and enjoyment of life. A vocation is work that you'd almost do for free because it has purpose and meaning for you - and you're good at it. Only a few of us have the wonderful opportunity to find vocations in life - and doing so leads to an extremely rewarding professional/work life. Most people bury their heads in the sand, feel glad to find a high-paying job and lack the courage to seek out their vocation. Vocations, by the way, seldom come to people immediately upon graduation. Take time in the 10-15 years after you graduate to try different kinds of work and have different work experiences to help you discern what a true vocation might be. Just because some company tries to pigeon-hole you into a "specialty" line of work, don't accept that unless there's something about the work that really resonates to you. And by all means, avoid the trap of thinking your vocation is simply the corporate fad de jour; this kind of bandwagon-jumping typically proves as empty as any other job in the end. Be true to yourself and give yourself the opportunity to find your vocation in life - because it will make your professional life rewarding beyond compare.
HBA 1982
Chris Dawson, MBA 1987
In the "case world", you are the decision maker, but always remember that in the "real world" you must work through the people that are part of the organization. Ensuring that they are on board and support the decisions as defined is a necessity to a well-performing company.
HBA 1983
Mark Verdun
The world is changing faster than it ever has so always be learning. You have one body to last a lifetime so always be fit. Connections create opportunities so always be developing your personal and professional network. Reputation is everything so never behave unethically or burn bridges, and always be kind and respectful to others regardless of their position. What goes around truly comes around (eventually) so give back and help others whenever your help is requested and you are able. It will be appreciated more than you'll ever know and the great joy you'll receive is free. Lastly, spend less than you earn and save early - the power of compound interest will amaze you in your later years!
John Towsley
The devil is in the details. Put in the checks and balances to make sure people so what they say the will to the standard you need.
HBA 1984
Ray Young
Practice the 3Ls: Listen, Learn and Lead -- in that order! This has guided me to success in both my career and personal life.
Stephen Armstrong
When evaluating job opportunities, prioritize the strength of the business leadership and how the company nurtures talent. Proactively seek out opportunities that enable you to learn from the leaders/game changers/disruptors in your area of focus. Does the company and its leaders inspire you? What can you learn from them and will you have opportunities to engage with them? This is more important than salary and benefits. Additionally, seek out mentors who can be a sounding board and a trusted resource as you make decisions about your job and your career.
Mark Verdun
The world is changing faster than it ever has so always be learning. You have one body to last a lifetime so always be fit. Connections create opportunities so always be developing your personal and professional network. Reputation is everything so never behave unethically or burn bridges, and always be kind and respectful to others regardless of their position. What goes around truly comes around (eventually) so give back and help others whenever your help is requested and you are able. It will be appreciated more than you'll ever know and the great joy you'll receive is free. Lastly, spend less than you earn and save early - the power of compound interest will amaze you in your later years!
HBA 1985
Sean Shannon
Your career is a marathon of sprints. Take time to recalibrate and make sure you are heading towards your North Star whatever that may be. Everyone has a different path and you only need to worry about your own.
Andrew Cooke
Whether you know it or not, Ivey has shaped the way you will think for the rest of your life.
Anonymous
Pursue your passion not the money. The money will follow if you are passionate in what you do
Patrick Pelliccione
Ivey provides you with a knowledge base to deal with the real business world. Always remember though that successful business people continue to learn every day that they practice business.
John Whitehead
Success in life...both business and personal...comes from relationships. It comes from caring. It comes from giving and contributing. It's not necessarily the most intelligent people who have a full and rewarding life. Care about what you do. Care about who you are doing it for. Care about who you are doing it with. And care about how you are doing it. Work on you. Work on being a better you. As a person. A good place to start is with Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Give, give, and give. It's not a cliche. It's a way of life. You'll be shocked by the abundance it brings to all areas of your life.
HBA 1986
Randall Craig
There are no limits to your potential success, except perhaps your own ego. Your success will be all the more satisfying when it is shared with all who helped you attain it.
Gary Grad
The greatest joy in my career came from leading teams. My role as the Chief Investment Officer was my proudest career achievement. In many ways, it felt like I had trained my whole life for the role - my education at Ivey, my previous jobs, and my participation in team sports as a player and as a coach. At its essence, the role of CIO was a leadership role. While unknown to me until recently, a quote from Andy Stanley captures how I tried to lead my investment teams. “Leaders are those who would rather challenge what needs to change, and pay the price than remain silent and die on the inside.” The Apple TV show -TD Lasso, has beautiful lessons on leadership and humanity. Use it to guide your actions.
Beyond leadership, there are a few other things that I learned in my life and my career that I would like to share:
1) Integrity is non-negotiable. Maintaining it at all times will allow you to live with yourself in the present and will allow you to be unconditionally proud of everything you accomplish
2) Set the right priorities to guide you in life: family, friends and then work. Family and friends are forever – work isn’t
3) As managers, employ people who are passionate, self-aware, loyal and willing to be good teammates. Then treat them well.
4) As parents, get your kids involved in team activities. Doing so will each them how to be part of something bigger than themselves. It will help them to succeed in life
5) As Leaders, set transpicuous and simple objectives, clearly communicate these objectives and hold people accountable for achieving them
You are entering an exciting time in your lives. Enjoy it and be outstanding in every way.
Alastair Sloan
Put yourself in their shoes. Too often we negotiate or interact with people with our agenda or viewpoint and we are wedded to that. When dealing in social or business settings address the issue with introspection of what drives the other party's stance. From there you can either find a way to accommodate or find common ground.
Paul Marsh
#1 We are often mesmerized by the glitter that comes with the new things in our life. Then we tend to feel let down by the unexpected aspects of that new experience. One thing I wish that I had been told long ago, perhaps even in high school. That is, it is helpful to remember that everything in life comes with something that has an unpleasant flavor (and excrement sandwich of sorts, if you have a sense of humor). The trick is to figure out which flavors your spiritual palate is willing to endure and to choose experiences/jobs/partners that come with those limited flavors. Having made the decision, we can focus on our strengths and those things that allow us to shine, rather than feeling suppressed and struggling with things beyond our capacity.
The second lesson, be grateful for everything. Everything is a gift that will allow you to learn and discover new opportunities.
A third lesson, treat everyone with grace and humility. You never know what someone's been through in their life or where their shoes have walked. In this way you are most approachable and more easily engaged. You are also open to new experiences.
HBA 1987
Brian Wong
Constantly network, “save for a rainy day”, put yourself in position(s) to let luck to repeatedly find you, make sleep and exercise an integral part of your daily routine as money can’t buy good health (but it helps), “it’s not different this time around”, one’s reputation takes years to form and only minutes to destroy, remember the most important decision you will make in the next 10 years is picking who is hopefully your life partner as nothing is more important than family (some of you might think it’s money but you came in this world with nothing and you can’t take it with you).
Blake Witkin
There are so many things I’ve learned since graduating, however, I fear most will have no real meaning until we experience them ourselves. “Be kind to others” is wonderful advice. One definition of kindness being “to loan someone your strength, instead of reminding them of their weakness”. Easy to say, but often hard to do. Wishing all the best to the graduating class.
Ian Crassweller
The functional, technical, and strategic skills we learn and develop are important - it IS important that business leaders prioritize “doing the right things”. BUT results are achieved through people, by people, and for people. You will never achieve sustainable success as a business leader without working well with others.
HBA 1988
Anonymous
1. Find a career doing what you love. If you love it, you'll excel in it, which will make you love it even more. And let that career evolve as your interests evolve. Work is about personal growth as much as corporate growth.
2. Stop and think through how you'll manage a career AND family when the time comes. Know your options, their limitations and their impacts. Don't go into building a family without preplanning, or you may forever regret the path you ended up on. They don't teach you in business school how to navigate these decisions and their impact. A big part of your identity right now is Ivey and business. It's really hard when, or if, that changes, so plan for it.
Chris Pearce
Time is your greatest and most precious asset, value it accordingly.
Brad Furtney
A must-read book is Mindset by Carol Dweck... A growth mindset and resiliency will take you farther than just experience. If you want to be fulfilled and successful understand that learning never ends.
Networking - connect and expand your network early and throughout your career. Make sure you bring value to every interaction so that the conversation is more two-way vs you just looking for advice. Find a mentor and/or hire a career coach. This will assist you in reaching your potential!
Lynne Burnside
Always remain curious. If you do, you will always be open to learning from others in any role or function. For me this is a key principle of leadership that has kept me grounded and fostered incredible collaborations both personally and professionally.
HBA 1989
Stephen Jakob
Keep up your level of intellectual curiosity and never stop learning or the world will pass you by. Not only did I learn this at Ivey but also from my mother. At 92 she lives alone and is active on facebook, orders her own groceries and has an amazon prime account. She is always interested in knowing how things work and how she can benefit and benefit others. Her life-long curiosity and willingness to learn has inspired me to do the same.
Jeff Feig
Tenacity is a skill you develop. Don’t give up developing it. Pursue your ideas till you either get them done or you know they are wrong and you’re ready to pivot.
Nicole Haggerty
I wish I had realized that the "life is short" advice was wrong earlier. I wish I'd told myself to slow down, to not want everything at once. I wish I'd not said "I'm so busy" to my family and loved ones so often that they started to say "I know your busy..." at the start of every conversation. I know now that life should be lived long - as if there is an abundance of time for all the things I hoped to accomplish. I know now that an appreciation of "life is long" and that making each moment matter, especially with the people I love is the essential opportunity in life to cultivate. In the end it will be all that matters. Live the Long Life!
Katie Bennett (Zemla)
I try to never forget that I am one of the lucky ones. To graduate from a top university in Canada is an immense gift. This isn't about pressure. This is about gratitude. To be raised and educated in this country, at this moment in history with the opportunity to have a positive impact on our world through leadership, is something I am grateful for every day.
HBA 1990
Anonymous
Follow your heart - you only live once.
Peter Bynoe
I have learned that good leadership is critical to an organization's success. I underestimated this before graduating.
Kerstin
Focus on the front line, get out and walk a mile in the shoes of your customer service teams, your sales teams, your production teams, your maintenance teams etc. Do it as soon as you can when starting a role and do it regularly.
HBA 1991
Anonymous
You never learned anything by succeeding first. Learn from "failures".
HBA 1992
Peter Furnish
Always look forward, don't look sideways at your peers, family members, or anyone else. Choose your own path and not the path of others. It is challenging when you are deep in study at Ivey, but will ultimately be more satisfying and rewarding down the road! Note - I shared a presentation about this when I presented to a class several years ago
Olaf Weckesser
All the accomplishments and accolades you have earned to date have gotten you your degree and gotten you your first job. Congratulations! Now everything resets. In your new job no one cares what you accomplished before, they did those things too. You will need to demonstrate your abilities all over again and do so with a smile and enthusiasm. No one owes you anything. Good luck!
HBA 1993
Pauline Martin
As you navigate today's very fluid career path, pay close attention to what motivates you, gets you excited, how do you want to spend your time? Seek out opportunities to do more of what you love and less of what you don't love. It has been a consistent exercise for me every time I look for my next growth opportunity or career change - self-awareness is the best compass if success is measured by personal purpose and passion!
Sabina Fung
I have a work philosophy developed over the years – make myself obsolete – every new business ventures, initiatives, marketing campaigns need new transformative aspects which make part or whole of the previous ones obsolete – “unlearn to learn” at its finest. I believe humility and being my authentic self could transcend limitations and challenges in different ways more effectively.
I enjoy the process of discovery, creativity and improvisation which entre- and intra-preneurships bring about.
At Ivey, there was a professor who inspired and protected me from the trials and tribulations of life and encouraged me to go on, in particular when I was at a crossroads. I want to be that person to someone.
Ann Marie Cicuttini
I learned really quickly that memorizing terms in a textbook doesn't get you far in the workplace. You learn by experience which made me realize that case studies are a lot more useful than just textbooks. I also learned that the 48hr Case Studies (I can not remember the exact name) and the 8am classes are brilliant and great preparation for the work world.
Nigel Robertson
Build your integrity. Say what you will do. Then do what you said. Relentlessly.
Master time management. Don’t let it master you.
Elvy
Be passionate about what you do. The payback is priceless.
Alison Cooper
Who you are is more important than what you do. Spend time determining your true values and then surrounds yourself with the people, work and activities that reflect the person you want to become.
HBA 1994
Craig Tyndall
Ignore the noise and follow your gut... lots of people will say they have their post grad plans (and the rest of their life!) all figured out, but that truth is - nobody has everything figured out. Take time after school to continue your non-school education before "settling down" - travel, work abroad, volunteer... experience life.
Angie Roussel
Fail fast :-) (and learn from all situations)
Natasha Millar
Learning doesn't stop when you graduate - you will continue to learn and grow throughout your career. Those with a growth mindset will thrive as they keep learning and adapting to rapidly changing work and market conditions. finishing your degree at western is really just the 'end of the begining' of your learning and career journey! You may choose to go to back to school and do a masters or even change careers over your lifetime and that is all part of the fun! Stay open minded and flexible, it will go a long way! Don't worry about 'how it's supposed to be' but rather focus on 'how you choose it to be'. Good luck to you and your class of '23.
Kieran Young, Valedictorian HBA '94
I treasure and continue to nurture the friendships and connections I made at IVEY. These relationships are unique and built on a solid foundation due to the shared experiences the intensity of the HBA program brings.
HBA 1995
Sandra Montanino (nee Rushbrook)
Your degree is just the beginning! Continue to be curious and always seek to learn. You don't need to have all the answers, but by asking questions, being open to what insights and knowledge others are willing to share, you will challenge yourself and grow beyond any potential you have when trying to do it alone. Relationships are key - invest in these, early and often. Consider any "live" conversation an opportunity to connect, include, be kind, learn about others, and deepen your relationships.
Jeff Caswell
Ivey offers a doorway into the path toward your dreams. Others will have dreams for you. Stay focused. Be the author of your OWN amazing story.
Jeannine Pereira
It's not only about the product you create or the task you complete - you can learn so much from the process you go through and the path you follow. What is most important is the impact you make on the people you meet along the way. Enjoy your life journey!
HBA 1996
Kristine Douglas (Newby)
The Ivey network is deeply connected and paths can intertwine throughout your life in beautiful and impactful ways.
Martha Schrader (Collin)
There is a short game and a long game for your career. Mind the short game - but the long game is where it’s at. It is critical that the long game aligns with who you are as a person - what your values are and what inspires you. Reading a bit of Clayton Christensen's - How Will You Measure Your Life? - is always a good start.
At our graduation, one of my favorite professors shared this - "you are now armed with one of the best and well-rounded business degrees available. Now heads down, keep your ego in check, be humble and focus on adding value, wherever you go... the rest will take care of itself."
Never hesitate to reach out to the Ivey community for Mentorship.
Look around you, some of the best friends that you will have for your lifetime - are here at Ivey.
Roger Beharry Lall
Success is not a linear path - it is full of unexpected turns, unwanted twists, undesirable tangents, unclear opportunities. Seize all of them.
Ginger Butler
There are many definitions of success. Traditional business success is focused on growing profits, increasing shareholder value or amassing wealth. With the amazing HBA education as a foundation, we have the opportunity to make an impact on the world by contributing to communities, improving the environment, creating socially responsible organizations or breaking down barriers for those less privileged. Have the courage to follow different paths and feel proud of all forms of success!
Reg Jackson
In a world where all HBA grads have the same degree, what can one do to set themselves apart? Think about this question from an ‘all things being equal’ angle. What little extra can put you above the competition?
My advice is to be yourself and pursue things in your life that not only interest you but make you interesting? I have always gravitated toward people who can tell a story and keep me engaged.
These are also the folks I hire!
Life experiences go a long way!
Have fun!
HBA 1997
Anonymous
Don't follow the money, do something that is meaningful and provides you meaning.
HBA 1998
Anthony Guagliano
Head down, work hard!
Patrick Spence
Find something you’re good at, at a place you can learn & grow, with people you enjoy working with.
Erin Craven
Bet on yourself sooner. When that million-dollar idea hits you, bet on yourself and take quick action. Speed, action, passion and courage are the winning recipe to entrepreneurial success.
Michael Rossi
Your career is a "long game" and it's uniquely yours. Make choices for you, not anyone else, and you will find fulfillment and happiness.
Alex Makrygiannis
The one piece of advice from Ivey that has stuck with me throughout life is to always make a decision with the best available info, even if the info is limited. Never sit on the fence.
HBA 1999
David Sieradzki
You have learned how to deal with so many complex business issues and problems over your HBA years, and many of you will continue to build on that foundation with additional professional designations. With all of those impressive qualifications, please don't forget how to keep solutions simple. Sometimes, the best solution is the basic one. Also, always be a long-term thinker because your career is a marathon, not a sprint. For what it’s worth, that is my advice to the HBA graduates. Congratulations!
Carlie Bell
Life passes quickly, and there’s always ups and downs. You can be a workaholic (even if you live the work), but the work never ends, the to-do list never shortens and, the reality is, you’re always replaceable at work.
Stop. Prioritize now before you develop soul-destroying habits. Relationships with friends and family & hobbies feed the soul, and enjoying life’s pleasures requires active decisions to balance work with everything else, before it’s too late and you missed all those roses 🌹
And lastly, put your dang cell phone down and actually connect with people in person 😜
HBA 2000
David Resnick, MBA 2005
At the end of life, only 3 things matter:
1) How well you lived
2) How much you loved
3) How well you learned to let go
HBA 2001
Jack Chong
Try not to worry. It doesn’t help. Just give your best, act with integrity, and be helpful to others. Good things will happen. Don’t worry.
Morley Ivers
Meaningful growth and comfort never coexist.
HBA 2002
Jennifer Ger
Be daring and bold and ask people smarter than you for help. It's amazing the time people will take with you if you ask nicely and be sure to say thank you.
Nick Kuzyk
As soon as you can in your career, find a way to earn money as revenue instead of as income, either by working as a independent contractor or by starting a business, so that you pay a lot less tax. The compounding effect of that change can be life-changing.
HBA 2003
John Quick
The biggest difference in the people in the room where things happens is that they believe they belong there...
Andrew Parkes
For your work, find something you are passionate about and are world class at. Once you find it, say 'no' to pretty much everything else. If you're smart and work hard, you'll have to say 'no' a lot but it's worth it as you won't like that work anyway.
Jay Hamilton
You don't know it now but the friendships you have made during your time at Ivey are the most valuable thing you'll take after you graduate. Friendships are like flowers. They need nourishment in the form of sunlight and water to grow. Nourish your friendships with group chats, events, parties, annual traditions and anything that keeps you connected to each other. The time you put into these friendships will pay off tenfold and bring joy to your life in ways you cannot imagine.
20 years from now these friends will be the leaders of companies across Canada and around the world. This network is invaluable as you grow your career and look to make your mark on the world.
Anonymous
Relationships are important. Stay connected to your friends and those in your network
Fahreen Damji
You need to be your own advocate and don't wait 20 years to find your voice.
HBA 2004
Ash Singh
Pace yourself. Watch your social media intake, vaping and too much sitting. The journey is the reward.
James Ha
Remember that the road to achievement and the road to happiness are often mutually exclusive. Make sure you have an understanding of what each path means to you personally and remind yourself often. Don’t let one road overshadow the other, and find the right balance for you.
HBA 2005
Jameel Madhani
Invest in your personal and professional relationships (especially in your own credibility) like they will be your greatest assets.
Aaron Minocha
You may not realize the full power and value of your degree while you are studying at Ivey, but once you enter the workforce and begin your professional careers, you will realize that what sets you apart as an Ivey alumni is not just the technical knowledge you've gained, or not even just the relationships you've built, but rather the critical and strategic business thinking and thought process that Ivey has instilled in you. Always approach problems you face in your future career as if it was a problem you needed to solve in school using the same critical analysis and problem-solving framework you've used so many times at Ivey, and it will leave you in great hands throughout your future.
Adam Kennedy
Your career can be relatively long, but always needs to be maintained. Think of it like a house or car. Keep learning (formal and informal), keep active in your industry (read articles, attend conferences, volunteer in governing bodies) and keep in touch with former employees/coworkers/subcontractors/clients. Your subcontractor today might be your boss tomorrow. Your coworker today may be your client tomorrow.
HBA 2006
Braedon Hebert
If you only wished to be happy, this could be easily accomplished; but we wish to be happier than other people, and this is always difficult, for we believe others to be happier than they are.
Andrew Thorn
Get real-world experience. It's the single most impressive thing to prospective employers. A great internship can lead to accelerating your career by several years.
HBA 2007
Matthew Sobczyk
Conversation is your most powerful tool. Grabbing a coffee and catching up can lead to some of the most profound ideas and solutions you will ever have.
Hussein Lalani
If consider your creativity as your most valued asset, you will always make decisions that are most fulfilling to your mind & heart.
Phil Lacombe
a) There is a difference between being smart versus wise. You've checked the box on the former. It's now time to start working on the latter.
b) Choose to be happy.
c) Thank and be kind to your parents.
Harish Venkatesh
Seek and build mutually beneficial friendships and relationships with quality mentors at work; they've been through a lot of what you will go through and are often pillars during major transitions in your life and career.
Alexander Stephen Martin
Always stay in your current job until you find your next position. It's much easier to find a next position from a current position, rather than being unemployed.
Your bosses aren't always right. If they're not leading by example or setting a good culture, trust your gut & your heart. They'll lead you in the right direction.
HBA 2008
Lean Hillier, MD CCFP (SEM)
Don’t be afraid to do something outside of the classic business jobs ie accounting, banking, marketing. Your business training will give you a competitive advantage in any field you choose. Follow your passion and do something that feels meaningful to you.
Artur
Life is nothing like school. Use the concepts learned at Ivey to find the necessary and apply that to filtering out the excess. Network is your prime asset. Everyone around you has a wealth of experience and character to bring to your life. Discount no one. Everyone has value. Understand how you can be of value to them.
Lauren Kehl
Investing in relationships provides long-term returns you can’t model.
Anonymous
Just breathe. This too shall pass.
Brian Comeau
The learning starts when you graduate. Also, the journey is the destination.
HBA 2009
Mike Katchen
Choose people > passions. Most people focus on finding + following their passions. That's backwards. Find + follow the people you love to work with and the rest will take care of itself.
Amy Childs
Don’t beat yourself up for the (many) mistakes you will make along the way. If you aren’t messing up, you aren’t pushing yourself enough outside of your comfort zone.
Doa Mousa, MBA 2013
Be open to new experiences and opportunities, be brave and embrace change.
Focus your energy on building relationships, be authentic and kind.
Seek feedback early on in your career and show humility.
HBA 2010
Stefan
Capital is freedom
Stephanie
The only people who will remember the late nights you worked is your family and close friends. You can be successful while also prioritizing yourself.
Ronald Hae
Pick a career that makes you happy. Not a job that everyone else thinks will make you happy.
Jory Cohen
The one thing that comes to mind is to use both your head and your heart. It's possible to pursue a career that leverages business skills and generates positive social/environmental impact. Also, try to stay in touch with your friends, lean toward generosity, and lead with kindness.
HBA 2011
John Meko
Cherish and maintain your connections with your classmates. They will go on to do more amazing things than you can even guess now.
Adi Gullia
I've been an entrepreneur ever since I graduated from Ivey, so my "advice" below may be biased. I have never believed traveling the worn paths of accepted success - I believe each individual has to strike out on his/her own unique path.
At university, social influences can often cloud our self-awareness, making it challenging to uncover our genuine passions. This might lead us to make career decisions driven by external factors such as monetary gain, status, or competition. While these motivations aren't inherently detrimental, they can potentially lead to suboptimal outcomes, including the frequent career transitions that many new graduates experience. This scenario is often deemed as an expected progression, but I argue it doesn't have to be. The initial years post-graduation are crucial, and they deserve more than being left to chance.
Therefore, I recommend the following:
- Shield yourself from external influences that may obscure your self-honesty. Being true to yourself is the first step in crafting a spectacular career.
- Set your ambitions high. Your potential is limitless, and your goals should reflect this. If you're not aiming for a home-run in your chosen field, why are you stepping on to the field?
- Be cautious with excessive socialization. It is only when you stand alone that you are on the firmest ground. For then you will not have compromised. You will not have regressed to the mean.
- Exercise discernment when seeking mentors. Although it's widely suggested to find mentors, an examination of those who have reached the pinnacle of their craft often reveals that they didn't ascend to such heights through coaching. They charted their own course, learning, growing, and innovating in their unique ways.
Remember, your journey is your own. Embrace your individuality and authenticity as you step into the world after Ivey.
Ryan Standil
Focus more on maximizing your strengths than on improving your weaknesses. You will get a better return on your investment if you obsess over your strengths than if you try to “correct” your weaknesses. For example, if you are good at thinking through complex problems, but you are not good at quickly pumping out work, then find an industry that values quality over quantity. On the other hand, if you’re a “volume person”, but not an “attention-to-detail person”, then seek the opposite type of work environment. Good luck on your journey!
Anonymous
The people matter more than the work. Find a team who carry the same values as you.
HBA 2012
Rebecca Orellana
You have all the tools to succeed the day you graduate. It may not seem like it at the time, it’s unnerving and scary, but trust me you do. You are ready.
Tanya Moryoussef, MBA 2018, Valedictorian of 2012
When I graduated in 2012 I often felt like my career was about chasing the next milestone. The next raise, the next promotion, the next certification, whatever. Only now, 11 years and one Ivey MBA later, have I realized that the journey IS the destination. Focus less on the outcomes and more on the process. Some day you'll look back and realize every little hill you climbed made up a pretty big mountain, but it's the view along the way, not at the top, that counts. In other words, enjoy the moment! And yes, come back in 5 years and get your MBA from Ivey; 10/10 would recommend!! :)
Tian B. Li
Never lose sight of the big picture when performing a task. All tasks are part of a bigger strategic vision for the organization.
HBA 2013
Anonymous
Stay close to the friends you made - they are the most valuable part of your education.
Elyssa
Every decision feels so big right now, but there's so much more life out there and one day this will all feel small. Do what you enjoy, live somewhere else and don't worry about what your peers are doing.
HBA 2014
Jordan Bigford
The world is constantly evolving every day. What the world looks like as you graduate will be profoundly different than the one in the coming years and beyond. Always think global, and adapt to change quickly. Remember you are the master of your own destiny. Walk humbly, but confidently into the next stage of your life. Remember to always have fun, travel often to understand global culture and embrace being young. Lastly, don't sweat the small stuff, as it’s often bigger in our heads than in reality. As my Grandmother says, "things always have a way of working themselves out." Congratulations to the graduating class of 2023, you have a bright future ahead.
John Glynn
There’s more to life than that consulting, accounting, finance, marketing, or tech job and I guarantee in 10 years you won’t be where you think you’ll be now. Enjoy the ride, no matter what comes.
Candice
Follow the definition of success that best suits you. There is no one successful career path - you may find yours looking completely different from your classmates and that is how it should be.
Ashley Ching
If you’re on time then you’re late, if you’re early then you’re on time. Time management is essential in the real world and opportunities don’t wait for those are late.
HBA 2015
Ahsan
Your career is truly a rollercoaster. It will be long and will involve many pivots - some positive, some negative - some that will feel overwhelming and others that will be boring. The key is to not get discouraged when times get tough and always continue to put your best foot forward regardless of where you are in that journey. Build authentic connections along the way, and with those who are 10 years or 20 years ahead of you, who will pick you up when you fall and remind you of all the great things to come.
Cindy
Everything will be all right (and work out for the better!) even if it feels like the world is going to end if you don't get your dream job or some coveted position right out of school. SO many of my classmates regretted accepting the first job offer they got out of Ivey, because they took the job for the sake of securing a job and not thinking about whether they'd actually like the work or move their career in a direction they liked.
You'll feel the most fulfilled when you really interrogate yourself on what you value and what career path you want. And it's okay to make mistakes on your way to figuring it out! But doing your best to figure it out is what matters.
Dylan Anderson
Spend time and effort building your personal brand. This should be separate from Ivey, your future company and any past companies. Creating that understanding of who you are, what you stand for, and how you are different than others will go a long way in helping create a successful career.
Ashlin
In life and especially in your career, it is good to have an idea of what you want to do/achieve to focus your energy and resources. However, more often than not, nothing will go exactly according to plan. So work hard toward your goals, but also stay flexible and be willing to pivot, things always have a way of working out exactly the way they were supposed to.
Eva McGuire
Relationships are the most important thing in all areas of life, including work! Invest the time and energy required to cultivate them.
HBA 2016
Anonymous
Trust you're going in the right direction, even if it's not the same direction as everyone else.
Sparsh
Think for yourself. Be critical. Cut out the fluff and be practical. Don’t get into debates unless you yourself and willing to change your mind, if presented with reasonable evidence.
HBA 2017
David Brooks
Health can change in an instant, prioritize your health above everything else. Just because the drinks are free doesn't mean you have to drink 10 of them.
Armin
Follow your curiosity down some rabbit holes.
Alex Chen
Helping others is helping yourself. Whether you help or harm others, others (perhaps not the same people) will help or harm you. If you are happy but those around you are not, your happiness won't last.
HBA 2018
Tolu
Prioritize your self-care, well-being, and mental health! Then you can bring your best self to class, work, and all your future endeavours. Moreover, enjoy and continue learning for the love of knowledge and the appreciation of your education.
HBA 2019
Sean Bradley
During my time at Ivey, I was often advised to network with people at the big companies I was applying to in an effort to ‘get the interview’ or ‘build my professional network’. While that was valuable, I realize now that this emphasis on external people was likely oversized. The best ‘networking’ I ever did was having a f&!#%king blast with my section mates and Ivey friends, as the connections and friendships I made then have now extended into a trusting and authentic network with awesome professionals across every industry. Whether I’m looking for a new job, trying to make a connection for a sale, or anything in between, those relationships have been the most valuable, both personally and professionally.
Connor Childs
You don’t have to go to a big city like Toronto or NYC to be successful. Places like London offer great career opportunities while also allowing you to live a great work-life balance along the way.
Anonymous
Surround yourself with people you love. This is more important than what job you have and how much you make.
Akhil Rao
As you begin your careers, there will be moments of self doubt and fear as you face new challenges. In those moments, recognize and acknowledge your previous accomplishments and remind yourself of them. You can conquer anything you put your mind to!
HBA 2020
Anonymous
It takes effort from both sides to maintain friendships and if you put that effort in your Ivey friends truly do become your lifelong friends. Be humble, confident, kind and passionate about what you do because Ivey has taught you all the skills you need to be successful (or at least to fake it).
Anthony Mastromarini
Not everything goes according to plan. While difficult to predict major changes in your personal life, career, or macroeconomic environment, it is important to adapt and plan for contingencies. Leverage the things that you have control over and appreciate the things that are up to circumstance.
Omar Ezz
Do not underestimate the importance of interpersonal skills and relationship building. Your ability to influence without authority will be essential to creating immediate impact in the early stages of your career.
HBA 2021
Aurore Lyon
Leader character is what will come under the microscope - yours and others'. And under that microscope, it takes SO much courage to lead with kindness.
Cory
Never forget to prioritize your core values and goals. It's easy to lose sight of what's important with the stress of entering the workforce but if you set aside the time to reflect on your goals whether you're moving in that direction you'll be glad you did.
Anonymous
Your first big challenge post-graduation won’t be something you’ve done a practice case for. Trust yourself and your ability to push through. You’d be surprised with what you are capable of.
HBA 2022
Faizan
You get to dictate your own path in life, don't worry about what other people think of your job and stop chasing whatever will make you look the smartest or most prestigious. Just do you.
Matthew Olivan
Life in the corporate world won’t necessarily be like Ivey. Some workplaces will be good, but others won’t. You might find a good sense of community, but you might not. If a situation isn’t ideal, one option is to leave - but another is to stay and try to change it for the better. Don’t be afraid to be a changemaker and put in your best efforts in doing so.
Sarah van Waterschoot
Everyone’s career journey is going to look different. Focus on what you want yours to look like instead of comparing yourself to others. Your career is going to be long, so try to follow a path of passion instead of a course of conformity.
Ben Jones
Don't be afraid to speak up if a first job or role doesn't seem to be working out or you're worried you're performance isn't up to par. Speak up, be open and try to find ways to make things better, employers often appreciate the honesty and have enough invested in you that they also want things to work out. At the same time don't fear leaving a job quickly or having to move around - you never have to stay at a job if you don't want to and you're still young enough you have a million and one backup plans even if things don't work out.
Moe Faroukh
Live your life like it's your second chance.
Like many after graduating Ivey I got really into this hustling and grinding mentality focusing primarily on my career. But Imagine yourself in 50 years reflecting back on your life, you'll think of all the great moments with your family and friends. Then you'll look back on your regrets. You'll wish you laughed more, loved more, danced more, appreciated more.
One thing I learned at Ivey that has really stuck with me is the “work hard, play hard”, please don’t forget to play every now and then. Cheers Class of 2023!
Keerth Karunadeva
Cherish those in the room with you today, and make every effort to ensure you can spend as much time with them as you go on to the next chapters of your lives!
Iman Ahmed
No path is linear! Keep trying new things and exploring new opportunities - there are a million different jobs and companies out there - take each new career milestone as a personal self-reflection journey for the next! It’s all about figuring out what you like and what you don’t like and trying to find out what works best for you personally! As easy as it is to say - this takes a lot of time, patience and an open mindset! Good luck :)
Joe De Sousa
Stay curious and your greatest value comes from your authenticity. Respect yourself no matter the task ahead!
Anonymous
You are your own biggest champion - speak up for yourself, set your own boundaries, and push for your successes to be recognized. Congratulations!
More Wisdom from HBA Graduates
Anonymous
Prioritize your health, family and friends before any job. Do not chase money but passion and purpose.
Anonymous
Be kind, courteous and have manners - but don't forget to be yourself unapologetically.
Anonymous
Enjoy every moment of your undergraduate experience, from your classes to the extracurricular activities. The HBA program provides for some of the best college memories and you will make lifelong friends along the way.
Anonymous
Be grateful. You are amongst the smartest people you will ever meet (in your generation). AND The Ivey experience prepares you better than any other educational program to kick butt at life. Hard work is a skill, a highly respected skill.
Anonymous
I value most the people I met both at university and afterwards and kept as my lifelong support group...decent, honourable people. Secondly I learned the joy of learning and consulting with others.
Anonymous
No matter how prestigious the job, you'll be unhappy without a community whose values align with yours.
Richard E. Talbot, FCPA, FCA, CFA
Looking back, if there is something I’d say to my HBA grad-self it would be that hard work, problem solving, and intelligence are super important but personal relationships have even more value over the long-term. People may forget what you said but they typically remember the way you made them feel - So, a really good rule is to ‘Treat people the way you’d like to be treated’