Great Grads 2019: Alexandra Lam, BIB/19

On June 10, we will celebrate the class of 2019 as our newest graduates cross the Carleton University Convocation stage to receive their degrees. To make this special occasion, we’ve asked some of our grads to reflect on their time in the Sprott School of Business.

Alexandra Lam is graduating from the Bachelor of International Business program with a concentration in International Strategy and Human Resources, and a Minor in Spanish.

If you could choose one word to sum up your time at Sprott, what is it and why? 

To sum up my time at Sprott I would use adventure. My whole undergrad was full of exciting surprises that helped me grow as a person and change my perspectives. At some points, plans did not go as expected but all worked out well in the end. My four years at Sprott were a memorable adventure that gave me amazing opportunities that not only opened the doors for other opportunities, but also challenged me in personal ways as well.  

What were your goals when you started at Sprott? Did you achieve them? 

Going into my first year of university, I had not set very many goals as I was not sure what to expect. Over the years, various short and long term goals were created. For example, I set goals before going on exchange to become fluent in Spanish and work abroad during my exchange, which were both achieved. As for post grad, I hoped to have a job in a field that I am passionate about, and I am extremely excited to join a global firm in a field that I have recently found my passion in and am interested in!  

What is your favourite Sprott memory? 

My favourite Sprott memories were my year abroad in Chile and volunteering for Fall Orientation Week!  

What was your favourite course or professor? 

Hands down my favourite course was Ethics and Cross Cultural Interaction with professor Richard Clayman. When I took the course it was at during the dreadful 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. time slot, but his engaging and interesting classes gave me incentive to never skip class and the various experiences and stories he told were truly inspiring! I would also like to mention Yolanda Botero-Biton, my Spanish professor who was extremely helpful and encouraging during my Spanish courses.  

What was the most important lesson you learned during your time at Sprott? 

During my time at Sprott, the most important and valuable lesson I learned was to stay driven and keep your options open. When I first started the Bachelor of International Business (BIB) program, I was set on going to Spain for exchange and studying marketing. But over time, my interest changed to human resources and then to technology and sustainable business. I completed my year abroad in Chile and had an amazing year filled with exciting memories, immersing myself in a new culture and an internship. Sprott has taught me to weigh all the options – attainable and unattainable, and to never stop believing.  

What will you miss the most?  

I will miss roaming the halls on the seventh floor of Dunton Tower for sure! Whether it was visiting friends in the lounge, meeting for a group meeting or stopping by for a chat with Alanna from Business Career Management Centre (BCMC), my love for the Sprott community has grown immensely over the past four years! 

What’s next for you? 

Starting at the end of July, I will be working for Accenture as a Technology Analyst in Toronto!  

Is there anything else you would like to share with the Sprott community? 

I think people underestimate the value of not only a university degree but the experience that comes with it. Four years in a city that soon became home, are filled with so many memories, friends and connections that I never thought I would have when I first started. Thank you Sprott for your support and encouragement, I would not be where I am without you! 

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