Meet our graduate student ambassadors
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Alexander Wong - UBC FTMBA
Hi, I’m Alexander, a proud two-time UBC Sauder alumnus, having earned my Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) in Marketing here before returning for my MBA. Originally from Hong Kong, I moved to Vancouver in 2015 and have since cultivated a career in medical research consulting, working with some of the top pharmaceutical companies and medical guideline associations. As the MBA Society President, I’m passionate about fostering collaboration, building community, and creating meaningful connections. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me, I’m very excited to share why this program and Sauder feels like home to me.
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Andi Wang - UBC MBAN
Hi everyone! I'm Andi Wang. Since I earned my Master’s degree in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language from East China Normal University in 2021, I had the opportunity to work with organizations in China, the U.S., and France, which gave me valuable insights into diverse cultures and professional practices. Over the years, I've discovered a strong passion for data-driven decision-making in marketing, consumer insights, and ed-tech. This interest led me to pursue the MBAN program after three years of work experience to further chase my professional dreams. I’m excited to connect with friends from different parts of the world, and you’re welcome to reach out to me with any questions!
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Anna Polyvyana - UBC FTMBA
Hi, I’m Anna, an MBA student at UBC Sauder with a background in psychology and UX research. My professional journey began at a digital marketing agency in Vancouver, where I developed a strong interest in business fundamentals, strategy, and finance. This passion motivated me to pursue an MBA to broaden my expertise and expand my horizons. Originally from Ukraine, I’ve proudly called Canada home for over eight years, embracing its culture and stunning nature. Outside of class, I enjoy reading, practicing yoga, and exploring British Columbia’s scenic trails. I’m excited to connect and share insights about the MBA experience!
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Iqra Saeed - UBC MBAN
Hi everyone! I’m Iqra. I have 5 years of experience in brand management and digital marketing. Working on exciting campaigns sparked my passion for data analytics, which led me to Sauder’s Master of Business Analytics program. The journey so far has been incredible, largely thanks to the supportive community and Sauder’s core value of kindness, which I’ve truly experienced through the alumni network. As an ambassador, I’m excited to pay it forward by helping others in any way I can. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to chat or have any questions about my journey!
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Minjing Li - UBC MM
Hello! I’m Minjing (MJ). I hold a BSc in Kinesiology from the University of Calgary and have diverse experience in communications, social media strategy, and project management within the educational and non-profit sectors. My decision to pursue the MM is to develop the skills to transform scientific knowledge and abstract concepts into practical applications. I’m currently exploring the intersection between sport, business, fashion, and technology! Having lived, volunteered, studied, and traveled to 26 countries, I’m endlessly curious about different perspectives. South America is next on my list, so let me know if you have any tips! Looking forward to connecting!
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Natalia Gutierrez - UBC FTMBA
Hello! My name is Natalia, and I’m an MBA student specializing in Finance and Sustainability. Before joining Sauder, I worked as a technology consultant at a Big 4 firm, implementing cloud-based systems with clients across Canada. While that experience was rewarding, I wanted to deepen my passion for creating long-term solutions to global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) challenges. This journey brought me to Sauder, where I’m part of a vibrant community of individuals from diverse backgrounds, gaining the expertise to navigate tomorrow's challenges. I’m excited to share my overall program experience and what it’s like living in Vancouver. When I’m not studying, you can find me playing tennis, hiking, or learning to snowboard!
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Novar Qin - UBC MBAN
Hi, I’m Novar! I am a UBC Sauder alum and a current MBAN student. Since arriving in Vancouver as an international student in 2019, this city has become my second hometown— love the mix of rain and sunshine! Curiosity has always been my driving force. With a background in Finance and Business Analytics, I’m passionate about leveraging data analytics to tackle climate challenges. The MBAN program has equipped me with data skills, while Sauder’s incredible resources have empowered me to explore in sustainability. Outside of academics and work, I enjoy baking, writing blogs, and connecting with new people—like you!
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Sara Hassan Yazdi - UBC MM
Hi, my name is Sara. I grew up in a family where every conversation was about business, and I was always curious about it. I’ve always been passionate about three things: learning, numbers, and helping others. I chose to become a dentist and help people get rid of their pain, what a great feeling! But my curiosity for business never ended. That’s why I joined the Master of Management program at UBC Sauder. I’m exploring this new world and looking forward to bringing my healthcare experience to the world of business. In my free time, I hang out with family and friends, appreciate the beauty of Vancouver, and watch documentaries.
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Yao Lu - UBC FTMBA
Hi, I’m Yao, originally from China. With a background in both large corporation and SMEs, I’m equally passionate about creating connections, engaging with clients, and making people feel at home. Outside of my MBA journey, I love traveling and cooking, which means I’m always on the lookout for new cuisines to explore (and recreate in my kitchen!). I’ve traveled to over 20 countries/regions and lived in Maryland, California and Beijing before moving to Vancouver. Fluent in Mandarin and English, I’m excited to meet you, share my Sauder experiences, and help you embark on your own adventure here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Once you are enrolled in the program site on Canvas, it is really easy to start reaching out to other students in your cohort. Introduce yourself in the discussion forum to start making connections. The scheduled monthly coffee chats are another great way to meet your cohort members.
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You most certainly will! Each program has a dedicated careers team via the Hari B. Varshney Business Career Centre. Once you begin your studies, you will be able to book 1:1 coaching appointments as well as receive access to a wealth of career and professional development tools, platforms and training.
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Lucky for you, the business development team at the Hari B. Varshney Business Career Centre work every year to build industry relationships that encourage employers across Vancouver, Canada and internationally to create opportunities for students to work with them. Also, before the internship period, students will work with their assigned career coach to map out an effective plan for their internship job search based on the post-program goals as well as prior training and experience.
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Due to the intensive nature of our full-time programs, students are strongly advised not to work outside of the allocated internship periods. That said, if you absolutely need to work during the program, we recommend you wait until after you have completed Periods 1 & 2, this way you can get used to the school schedule and workload.
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Admitted students interested in on campus housing should apply as soon as possible and consider backup options. There are many wonderful neighborhoods near campus and around Vancouver where students can rent. All current students get a free transit pass which makes commuting free and easy.
On-Campus UBC Residence: https://vancouver.housing.ubc.ca/getting-started/graduate-students/
On-Campus non-UBC Housing: https://www.wesbrookproperties.com/
Off-Campus Housing: https://vancouver.housing.ubc.ca/other-housing/off-campus-housing/ -
Executive positions in the MBAN, FTMBA, or MM student society, student clubs such as sport clubs, mental health clubs, and women in business clubs, or even starting your own student club.
Chat with an ambassador
Choose the program you are interested in below to join an upcoming chat with one of our team.