Every convocation, we ask some of our graduating students to participate in our Meet the Class stories, where they generously share what brought them to MacEwan and their plans for the future. 

Some of them also talk about overcoming challenges, what made their experience amazing, and what kept them on their path or completely changed its trajectory. Here, we’ve compiled their best advice for new and returning students.

“Build connections with other students and professors. Networking is your best friend. Also, enjoy your time, because school doesn’t last forever (as much as we all wish it would).” 
Brooke Hope Mayer, Bachelor of Communication Studies ’25 

“You can plan every detail and try to organize your days to perfection, but life still has a way of surprising you. The university experience is about expanding your knowledge, but also about learning who you are and stepping outside of your comfort zone. Let go of the timeline you think you need to follow, embrace the fear and follow what excites you. The most beautiful parts of your journey may be the ones you didn’t expect.”
Britni Gorman, Bachelor of Arts ’25

“Find your people – those friends, classmates or mentors who truly support you – and stick with them.”
Reyna Pranav Parikh, Bachelor of Science in Nursing ’25

“Your journey will have ups and downs, but don’t be afraid to ask for help. Trust your strength, lean on your community and remember – there is no ‘perfect’ way to get through school. Just your way.”
Senait Tekie, Bachelor of Science in Nursing ’25

“If you don’t succeed at first, don’t give up. There’s a good chance you just haven’t found what you’re meant to do yet. Let discouragement be motivation to continue.” 
Santanna Marie Cuddy, Bachelor of Commerce ’25

“I had a professor in the Correctional Services program who always said the same thing before an exam: ‘You know more than you think you know.’ I didn’t realize it at the time, but those words stuck with me long after I graduated from that program. Sometimes, we get so caught up in what we don’t know that we forget everything we have already accomplished.” 
Abigale Deon Chase, Human Resources Management Diploma ’25

“Be open to change. When I first graduated from high school, I wanted to be a pharmacist, but I found out I didn’t like university chemistry. It is never too late to pivot. The most important thing is that you are doing something you enjoy.”
Alia Marie Hogan, Accounting and Strategic Measurement Diploma ’25

“Put your mental and physical health first, and don’t work yourself to the bone throughout your degree. Spend time with loved ones and take care of yourself while committing to your studies, as this puts you in the best position to succeed.”
Viktoriya Kotsyuba, Bachelor of Commerce ’25

“Get involved in student groups, whether they’re related to your program or just something you're interested in. That’s how I met Shine and Rashida – two people who became a huge part of my support system. Building community makes the journey so much richer. And most importantly, give yourself grace. Growth can be messy, but it’s still growth.”
Ronique Renae Holgate, Child and Youth Care Diploma ’25

“Believe in yourself as you can accomplish great things!” 
Sehzpreet kaur Padda - SRD, Bachelor of Science in Nursing ’25

“Enjoy this next phase of your life as much as you can. I often wish I had focused less on the stressors and more on the things that made my experience great. Embrace the chaos and enjoy your time here!” 
Sophia Dorothy Konrad, Bachelor of Communication Studies ’25

“Be kind to yourself. The program – and university in general – is intense. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Ask for help when you need it and take breaks when you can. You don’t have to be perfect to make a difference – you just have to care and be willing to keep learning.”
Camryn Deane Kazemir, Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing ’25

“Say yes and get involved. Don’t wait until you feel completely ready, just take that first step. MacEwan has a way of turning small experiences into major personal growth. And find a mentor. Having someone to guide you, share their experience and help you navigate challenges can make a big difference in your journey.”
Abdullah Al Muktadir, Bachelor of Commerce ’25

“Take the time to research all the career opportunities available for your major. It gives a sense of purpose, especially on the tougher study days. I had no idea I could do so much with a nursing degree until I actually sat down and researched the endless possibilities.”
Andrea Alcaraz, Bachelor of Science in Nursing ’25

“For students in the music program: Don’t shy away from jazz. I went into the program not interested in it at all. But even if it’s not what you want to do after MacEwan, it is a framework to approach all music. Don’t be afraid of taking your degree in five years but also don’t be afraid of a two-year year diploma exit.” 
Sawyer Begg, Bachelor of Music ’25

“University is not rigid like high school. All the professors encouraged creative expression and thinking outside of the box. There is no ‘right’ answer to a question, just the answer that only you can find. You’re paying for your degree. Get what you want out of it. For me, that was creative expression, lots of networking and some good grades along the way.”
Ashe Stolte, Bachelor of Music ’25

“Communicate with your professors the gaps you find in your understanding. I can say with 100 per cent confidence that instructors and professors are rooting for you to succeed!”
Sarah Barthel, Bachelor of Fine Arts ’25

“It’s going to be scary, you’re going to feel out of your depth and you’re going to doubt yourself. Don’t worry about messing up. It’s going to happen. Don’t beat yourself up too much about it. Make good friends, enjoy the good days and mourn the bad, get involved in student groups, go to fall and winter fest, and talk to your advisors – they want to help.” 
Uchechukwu Osineme, Bachelor of Communication Studies ’25

“It is so easy to get overwhelmed with overthinking about the next steps in your academic journey. Sometimes it’s best to take a step back and breathe, refocus on the “now” and not overwhelm yourself. You’re only at your best when you are both physically healthy and have mental clarity. So make sure to take the time to take care of yourself for both now and in the future.”
Maher Al Rayess, Bachelor of Science ’25

“Take advantage of the strong community of students and professors.” 
Paige Madison Levasseur, Bachelor of Commerce ’25

“Looking back now, I remember the little moments of frustration, sadness and feeling like I didn’t belong. At the time, those thoughts were heavy – but they were what drove me. So if you ever feel like you’re not good enough, like you don’t belong or like you're falling behind, know that you’re not alone. Keep going. You’re more capable than you think.” 
Brynn O'Connell, Bachelor of Science ’25

“Speak up in class, raise your hand, ask questions and get your hands dirty, so to speak! I found I was able to learn best by, ironically, giving the wrong answer in class.” 
Matthew Brenden Kraus, Bachelor of Commerce ’25

“Everyone says this – get involved! Get to know your professors and actively search for opportunities. We pay a lot of money to be here. Get the ‘full’ experience.”
Elena Mercuri, Bachelor of Fine Arts ’25

“Explore a wide range of classes. You might discover a passion where you least expect it. Also, time management is everything. Stay organized and don’t leave assignments to the last minute. Future you will thank you!”
Brian Young, Bachelor of Arts ’25