Leadership in a pandemic: Sprott student Emily Buchkowsky reflects on her time as SBSS president

At the end of the winter semester, fourth-year Bachelor of Commerce student Emily Buchkowsky completed her tenure as the president of the Sprott Business Students’ Society (SBSS). So, we sat down with her and discussed her leadership journey at Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business during a historic time of drastic change and uncertainty.

You had quite an interesting year as the president of SBSS. What was the experience like?

My experience as SBSS president was definitely different compared to most years. When I was elected in January 2020, I was planning on expanding our in-person events to make them bigger and better in order to help increase student engagement and brand awareness amongst Sprott and Carleton University students at large. However, when I began my term on May 1, the pandemic had struck. So, my team and I really had to adapt in order to come up with ways to still accomplish this in a virtual format. We were able to come up with new and diverse events that engaged more students though. It was a lot of work starting from scratch on events and having no playbook to follow but, in the end, I think everything worked out.

What led to you seeking this position?

I have been a part of SBSS since my first year at Sprott. I served as the first-year representative that year, then became the vice-president of internal relations in my second year. Through those years, I was able to see the amazing work that the student leaders continuously did. I am extremely passionate for helping others through leadership and ensuring that students enjoy their experience at Sprott as much as I do. So, I essentially wanted to make sure that the energy within SBSS stayed high and positive for years to come.

What did you learn about Sprott and the community through your tenure?

This opportunity taught me so many things. But I think the biggest lesson I learned is how strong the Sprott community is. This year was a year like no other for students, club executives, faculty and everyone at Carleton University. Despite the challenging times we continue to face, everyone within the Sprott community always looks for ways to help one another – I think that best sums up what being a part of the Sprott family is all about and what ‘Sprott Love’ is all about.

Looking back at your time as president, what are some of the things you would say you’re proudest of?

I think I am proud to say that my team and I were able to provide various unique opportunities for students to build relationships and expand their network despite having to stay home. We consistently came up with creative ideas that would engage different student groups. I think this year also brought many changes to the organization for the better – such as the creation of our equity and inclusion director position, which led to three fantastic events during the academic year.

With everything that has happened around the country and the world this past year, how were your priorities for SBSS affected?

When my team and I first found out about the pandemic, the biggest thing constantly running through my mind was what this would mean for students. Sprott is such a tight-knit community, and so the biggest priority became ensuring that Sprott students had a way to stay connected. This is why we started the virtual Sprott Lounge so that students had a way to chat and hangout whenever, wherever, 24/7. Thankfully, as my team and I continued to brainstorm new events and ideas, with a lot of late nights and hard work, everything fell into place.

What are your hopes for SBSS’ future?

My hope is that SBSS continues to provide students countless opportunities to better their experience at Sprott. And, that student leaders continue to advocate for things that are important for the Sprott student body.

Is there a message you would like to send to your fellow students?

As students, I feel that we don’t always give ourselves the credit we deserve. So, I want to say congratulations. No matter what you accomplished this year, big or small, give yourself a pat on the back. This year was one like no other. Whether you graduated, passed all your courses, found a job, got involved or anything else, this was a tough year and you deserve to celebrate. Stay safe and have a great summer Sprotties.