What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

I’m originally from Arequipa, a beautiful and historically rich city in Peru, known for its stunning traditional architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. As an international student, several factors influenced my decision to come to UPEI. The smaller class sizes allow for stronger connections with both faculty and peers, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. Additionally, the safe and welcoming nature of Prince Edward Island made it an ideal place to study, grow, and feel at home while being far from my home country.

What do you find unique and interesting about your program?

I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in International Business. I’m also enrolled in the co-op education program and working towards that designation. My passion for international business comes from from my interest in how global markets operate, how businesses adapt across cultures, and the strategic decisions companies make to expand worldwide. One of the things I love most about my program is the well-rounded education it provides. I get exposure to all aspects of the business such as evidence-based management, marketing, accounting, finance, and human resources just to name a few. While my specialization allows me to apply these concepts on a global scale, diving deeper into international marketing, or intercultural management for example.
 

A highlight for me has been participating in McDougall Faculty of Business Case Competition Team. These experiences have given me the chance to represent UPEI internationally, applying what we learn in the classroom to real-world business challenges. I’ve had the opportunity to present business strategies to company executives and even CEOs. Competing in places like Hungary, Germany, the United States, and across Canada in Halifax and Montreal has been an incredible experience. We’ve placed multiple times, and it’s been rewarding to showcase all the knowledge UPEI has provided on such a large stage, having audiences of up to 800 people so far on different kinds of competitions such as family business, CFA ethics, risk management, and even interdisciplinary work with engineering students.

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and faculty?

UPEI has a strong support system for all students. Professors are always willing to provide feedback and guidance, which has been incredibly helpful. As someone who also works on campus, I’ve learned about various student support programs, from mental health resources to career services, which help students navigate both their academic and personal journeys.

What opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI or because of the Island location?

UPEI has provided me with countless opportunities. One of my first significant experiences was through the International Student Employment Program, where I secured my first Canadian professional work experience with a summer internship. Since then, I’ve taken on various roles, on and off-campus, thanks to UPEI, including:

• Student assistant with UPEI Experiential Education, helping students with resume and cover letter reviews, interview preparation, career resources, and so on.
• Student marker for the McDougall Faculty of Business, gaining insights into academic evaluations and business coursework.
• Social Media Manager for the McDougall Faculty of Business, managing online content and engagement.
• Yearbook Editor-in-Chief for the Student Union, overseeing the yearbook’s production and a team of contributors.

I also completed my first co-op work term with the provincial government, further expanding my professional experience. Beyond academics, I’ve been heavily involved in extracurriculars, holding leadership roles in multiple clubs and societies:

• Vice-President of Marketing and Operations with Enactus UPEI
• Vice-President of Marketing with the UPEI Business Society
• President of UPEI Relay for Life (formerly Vice-President of Marketing), helping raise over $13,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society.
• Founder and President of the UPEI Latin Society, creating a space to celebrate and share Latin American culture on campus.
• Organizer, Access for All Initiative with the Canadian Center of Diversity and Inclusion, advocating for a more accessible and inclusive campus.
   

These experiences have shaped my leadership skills and given me opportunities to work on meaningful projects.

"One of the things I love most about my program is the well-rounded education it provides. I get exposure to all aspects of the business such as evidence-based management, marketing, accounting, finance, and human resources just to name a few."

What's unique about UPEI and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

UPEI has a strong sense of community. It’s easy to build lasting connections, whether through friendships, academic collaborations, or professional networking. PEI itself is a welcoming and beautiful place, offering a close-knit environment that makes it easy to get involved and make an impact.

What would you tell a high school student considering UPEI and the McDougall Faculty of Business?

I’d highly recommend making the most of every opportunity, engage with professors, build relationships with peers, and get involved in extracurricular activities and volunteer work. Hands-on experience is invaluable, and UPEI provides so many ways to gain it. Also, consider specializing in an area of business that aligns with your interests, it can open doors to unique career paths.

How has UPEI prepared you for your future?

UPEI has given me the right mix of academic knowledge and practical experience to step confidently into the workforce. The connections I’ve made, the hands-on learning experiences, and the leadership opportunities I’ve had have all contributed to my growth. I feel prepared to navigate the global business landscape, apply what I’ve learned in real-world situations, and continue growing both professionally and personally.