We’re so proud of the more than 800 people who earned the privilege of walking across the stage at the university’s Fall Convocation ceremonies on November 18 at the Winspear Centre.

Here, members of the Class of 2025 reflect on how they found their program, their favourite projects and the people who helped them get to the finish line. 

ESHA ALI
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science

I arrived at MacEwan in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Being a pandemic student showed me how amazing MacEwan’s community is. Whether it was classmates stepping up to help each other or professors providing advice to help prepare students for life beyond MacEwan, I was impressed. The university has shown me what it means to be part of a community.

My first work-integrated learning (WIL) project was eye-opening. It showed me how what I was learning during my degree could be applied in the real world and had the potential to actually help others. I was able to make a real-life impact while working with the Arts and Culture Council of Strathcona County, the Library Association of Alberta, and the City of Edmonton's Community Recreation and Culture Community Services. Although there were challenges, I loved every second of it.

My parents have been an absolute inspiration to me during my time at MacEwan. Being a first-generation university student has its challenges; there were definitely times when I felt overwhelmed, but knowing that I have supportive parents who are constantly rooting for me and who have sacrificed a lot to ensure that I have the opportunity for a successful future kept me motivated. I am extremely grateful that MacEwan has given me the opportunity to make my parents proud.

After graduation, my goal is to attend law school. I have always been interested in the ability to make a difference, even if it's small, and am very excited about the opportunity to be part of creating change. 

MOHAMMAD ASAD
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Seeing a human birth for the first time was such a memorable moment. In my obstetrics rotation, we had many opportunities that I never imagined, like working with labouring patients and newborns. I realized that this is a very unique and privileged position, and as nurses, we get to support people in their most vulnerable (and exciting) moments. 

I remember an instructor describing patients as “someone’s someone,” and that really hit home for me. As someone with aging parents, I worry about them and what their future brings, so it is really important for me to deliver the most excellent care to other people’s parents and family members. 

I surprised myself by getting involved with the Muslim Student Organization at MacEwan. I am naturally quite an introverted person, but I reached out to the group and made some of my best friends. I gained a lot of confidence and carried it with me everywhere I went – making new friends and even striking up conversations with complete strangers. 

I want to get additional training to keep growing my nursing skills and qualifications so I can work at the highest levels of health care. I also plan to work in remote communities to help fill the severe health-care shortages they are experiencing. 

LEXA BRAUCHT
Travel and Tourism Diploma

I was so scared to enter university. I had a couple discouraging teachers at the end of high school that made me believe I wouldn’t be “smart” enough. One month in, when I started completing exams and assignments, it was the most amazing feeling to see the results I was getting from the work I was putting in. I began to rebuild my confidence and realize I am capable of these things. 

I always wanted to travel but I did not know how to go about it on my own. I took the leap and did a small trip to Vancouver with my sister. I remember how free I felt, exploring a city and figuring out things on my own. Then began a love that has gripped me since. 

Travelling offers personal growth and a different way to connect to those around you. I felt like I could tap into what I was capable of when I travelled. This is something that I want to connect others with – seeing what you’re capable of and exploring the world with curiosity. 

I am not yet sure where this career path will lead me, but I am excited to start my journey. I am currently travelling in Asia but will be heading back to school in January to work on my Bachelor of Commerce degree.  

EIDRIAN NEIL ENRIQUEZ
Bachelor of Commerce, Accounting
Dean’s Medal – Degree

I chose accounting because I’ve always been strong with numbers and logical thinking. Growing up, my family expected me to be an engineer or a lawyer – my nickname was even “Attorney.” But I excelled at analyzing numbers and processes, and accounting became the clear path for me.

I didn’t have a strong preference when I first applied to university, but if I could choose again, I would still choose MacEwan. The smaller classes and hands-on learning made courses more engaging and helped me grasp the material more effectively, and they also helped me build real connections with other students – and in business, those relationships matter.

One moment that defined my time at MacEwan was being chosen for the Dean’s Medal. I didn’t expect it, but it made me reflect on my journey and recognize how much sacrifice and hard work went into my degree. It reminded me that it all truly pays off.

During my studies, I completed co-op experiences with the Government of Alberta. Working in a professional environment early on helped me develop strong communication and collaboration skills – and I met amazing people along the way.

Today, I’m working as a staff accountant in Canadian and U.S. tax. Next fall, I’ll be starting in assurance at PwC while beginning the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) program. 

GENIA GOLDSTEIN
Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing

I began my post-secondary journey in nursing but soon discovered that my true passion lay in business. I transferred to MacEwan University for its smaller class sizes and hands-on learning opportunities – and it delivered. The supportive community and interactive academic environment played an integral role in helping me grow both personally and professionally. 

I am especially grateful to two professors who made a lasting impact on my education. Dr. Sergey Sukhankin challenged us to think critically, posing tough, thought-provoking questions that reshaped how I understand both the world and the marketing field. Barry Williams, my very first instructor at MacEwan, encouraged me to get involved, attend events and build meaningful connections – guidance that proved invaluable. 

I have a genuine passion for marketing. The blend of creativity, strategy, analytics and psychology makes the field engaging and exciting. I am currently working in automotive marketing and enjoy the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the industry. I also freelance in social media marketing, which allows me to explore diverse industries and continue challenging myself. Looking ahead, I hope to continue growing within dealership marketing while expanding my work in social media and digital strategy. I’m excited to see where this journey leads and how much more there is to learn. 

SHION HERANO
Bachelor of Design

As an international student, meeting people was hard at first. MacEwan’s design program taught me that we can use graphics as language. I became more talkative as I learned how to talk about shapes and colours. Sometimes, I still cried – in hallways, teachers’ offices, classrooms and on the staircases. I just want to say thanks to everyone who lent me a shoulder during those times. Thinking back, I miss the everyday scenes in classrooms and hallways far more than the big milestones. My favourite memories are of sitting in a classroom, listening to lectures and having conversations with my friends. 

I remember randomly stopping by and gathering in a circle around the fire in kihêw waciston during my first year. I didn’t know anyone, but the people there welcomed me, shared stories and gave me a hug that really saved me when I was lonely. I wish I remembered the name of the Elder who gave me that hug. I hope to meet them again someday. 

I am currently working as a contract graphic designer for the Language Revitalization Team at the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. I design event collateral, booklets, and digital materials that promote language learning and community connection. It has been an inspiring experience, and I continue to learn every day about Métis languages and culture. 

ROBERT SEAN HOLDER
Library and Information Technology Diploma

In the summer before my final year of school, my wife and I discovered that we were going to be parents. The last semester was particularly challenging, balancing all the preparations for a new baby, supporting my wife through the last months of her pregnancy, keeping up with my coursework and still working part time. 

The hard work was worth it. I maintained straight A's and landed a dream practicum placement that has now become an incredible full-time job in a law library, which is constantly enthralling. I serve a smaller client base, but my work with professional organizations allows me to still play a role in preserving social equity by providing and championing free and equal access to legal information.

My lovely wife Erin – her patience, support and love as we pushed through two incredibly hectic years – was absolutely inseparable from my success.  

Now I’m balancing the demands of fatherhood with my new career, growing into both roles. I'm also finishing up a certificate in public administration, laddering into my undergraduate degree in governance, law and management. And, assuming I finish that before my son starts his own post-secondary journey, there are a few masters programs I have my eye on.  

JUN LI
Bachelor of Social Work 

I will say that attending MacEwan was my internal calling. Ten years ago, I was thinking about social work but I put it aside. I began a small cleaning business where I cleaned at community centres and got to see social work happening in real time. And then I thought, “I think it's my fate. I need to go.”

During my final practicum, I decided to try to be brave – not to be so careful. And by the end of the first month, I was asked to coordinate the intake team for an annual tax clinic for newcomers. That's an achievement I never expected. It was fabulous!

I had so many impressive professors who were like role models. And over four years of study, every class gave me something. English is not my strength and a communication conflict that came up in one class helped me realize I wanted to focus more on the Chinese community – be a bridge for people who might have the same challenges with communication.

If I can, I want to go further and take a Masters of Social Work. I want to be a clinical social worker, and I think mental health is even more important than physical health. Right now, I'm a community educator, providing mental health workshops to members of the Chinese community. 

ROCHELLE MARTIN
Hearing Aid Practitioner Diploma
Dean’s Medal - Diploma

Receiving the Dean’s Medal has defined my time at MacEwan. Seeing all my hard work over the last two years recognized in this way, I am incredibly honoured and grateful – it still doesn’t feel quite real!

As a mature student I was nervous about returning to post-secondary after many years. But I look back on this time of living the “student life” – staying up late, studying with friends, coffee runs and pranks – with extreme fondness!

Being part of helping improve a client’s quality of life is at the core of why I am passionate about hearing health and chose this path. I look forward to working alongside my mentor, Carlee Johnson, for the foreseeable future. She made my path at MacEwan a reality and, in every way, supported me, encouraged me and believed in me – often, more than I believed in myself. 

I would tell any student starting their journey at MacEwan: you are so much more capable than you think. You are also truly not alone, so never be afraid to reach out for help.

I will be spending the next seven months working in my clinic as a registered hearing instrument practitioner (conditional), accumulating hours before completing my final licensing exam next spring. I am excited to continue my career in a clinic I love, with clients and co-workers that I adore.  

LIAM NEWBIGGING
Bachelor of Communication Studies – Journalism

I remember walking into SAMU for my first in-person meeting with The Griff, MacEwan's student publication. That's where I met Thai Sirikoone, the student publication’s editor-in-chief, whose enthusiasm felt infectious. That was also the start of a two-year adventure that helped me to engage with MacEwan in a deeper way. I learned about the different communities and people from all walks of life who attend across all the different faculties. I also saw how people experience university in vastly different ways, face different struggles and are opposed by forces I wouldn't have even considered. Working at The Griff helped make me a much more well-rounded person and reporter.

I contributed a piece on food safety that was published in the Edmonton Journal. The collaborative aspect of that class allowed us to cover so much ground. It's an example of what I think a lot of people want journalism to be – something that reveals things and can make these strong claims and push for big changes in the world. It's not realistic for reporters to always be working on a massive investigation, and it's especially rare to get that exposure as an undergrad.

I was really lucky to land internships at The Globe and Mail and CBC Edmonton. Both have been awesome learning experiences. Since finishing my coursework I've been working as a casual reporter and associate producer with CBC Edmonton.

PARAMDEEP NIJJER
Bachelor of Science, Applied Statistics

Statistics gave me a new way to look at the world, and one grounded in curiosity, logic, and evidence. I’ve always been fascinated by patterns and decision-making, and studying statistics allowed me to turn that curiosity into a real skill set. 

My consulting project in Applied Statistics was the first time I brought together everything I’d learned about coding, analytics and problem-solving to work with a real-world dataset. It pushed me to think independently and trust my instincts as a data analyst. That project reminded me why I love data: it’s not just numbers, it’s a story waiting to be discovered.

Dr. Rui was one of the professors who truly left an impact on me. She had a way of explaining complex topics in a simple, intuitive way that made me want to learn more. Her guidance after graduation and writing recommendation letters for graduate studies was a huge support. Right now, I’m pursuing my Master’s in Data Science at Boston University, while continuing to gain professional experience in analytics and research. My goal is to transition into a data or machine learning engineer role in the next few years, where I can build meaningful solutions that bridge data and decision-making.

BENTI FUFA OFGEHA
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Caring for others has always been at the heart of who I am. My Christian faith deeply influences my values of compassion, service and empathy. I was also inspired by my mother – watching the way she cared for us when we were ill showed me the power of kindness in healing. Nursing stood out as the perfect match between my compassion and my desire to make a difference in people’s lives.

I came to Canada in 2018, and starting nursing school in 2022 was a huge transition – a new environment, culture and language challenges. I had to learn to balance being a father, husband and full-time nursing student. But each semester, as I gained confidence and built friendships, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be. The moment I completed my first clinical placement, I truly felt proud of how far I had come.

My classmates were incredibly supportive during group work and clinical placements. We encouraged each other through long study sessions and stressful exams. Their kindness and teamwork reminded me that nursing is truly about collaboration and community.

I’m focused on building my career and continuing to grow as a registered nurse. I want to keep learning, continue to develop my clinical skills and eventually give back to new nursing students the same way others supported me.

DONGMI PAEK
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Dean’s Medal – Degree

The pandemic made me realize that health care is one of the few fields that will always be essential, no matter the crisis. I wanted to do something meaningful and stable, something that directly helps others. That’s what drew me to nursing.

I’ve always had a strong fear of public speaking. In my first and second years, I would volunteer to take on the research or written parts of group projects just to avoid presenting in front of the class. Eventually, I realized that I couldn’t keep avoiding things I was afraid of. The only way to overcome fear is to face it. Even though I practiced my fourth-year presentations over a hundred times, my voice was still shaky and my face was flushed – but I did it. That moment made me incredibly proud of myself.

I don’t drive, and taking the bus in winter can be unpredictable and time-consuming. Some of my classmates gave me rides to clinicals, and it made a huge difference. Without their help, I wouldn’t have been able to get through clinicals as smoothly as I did.

I’m now working as a bedside nurse and really enjoying learning something new every day.

SAHIBA PAHWA
Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences
President’s Medal for Academic Excellence and Student Leadership

As a preschool educator, I witnessed the challenges that children and their families face in receiving timely medical diagnoses, often due to limited resources, access or awareness. That sparked my passion to advocate for vulnerable populations and led me to MacEwan. A Bachelor of Science was my first step in helping to bridge those gaps by pursuing a career in pediatric care.

My first semester was incredibly challenging. I was passionate about biology and its ability to reveal the inner workings of the human body, but it had been 11 years since I had studied science. The support at MacEwan, incredible professors who genuinely wanted to see me grow, and smaller class sizes enabled me to overcome those challenges and excel.

Beyond my interest in pediatric care, studying biological sciences provided me with opportunities to engage with global issues, including research on antibiotic resistance. My independent study project explored alternatives to antibiotics, and with guidance and support from Dr. Benjamin Bourrie, I continued my research with a Summer Research Studentship, supported by Alberta Innovates.

Completing my degree in just 2.5 years wasn’t easy. I had to find a balance between my work as a preschool educator, volunteering in a neonatal intensive care unit, supporting outreach programs for public schools, acting as a peer mentor, conducting my own research and taking care of my personal well-being. It was tiring at times, and there were moments when I questioned if I could keep up, but those challenges taught me resilience and discipline. On the most difficult days, the unwavering support of my partner, Vivek Chawla, kept me grounded and motivated. 

Ultimately, my time at MacEwan taught me that leadership is less about titles and more about supporting others, fostering collaboration and inspiring those around you to achieve their best.

I am currently applying to medical school with the goal of caring and advocating for children and families. In the meantime, I continue to support children as an educator and volunteer, gaining experience and insight that will guide me in my future career.

CASEY JAMES RIESS
Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences
Dean’s Medal for Academic Excellence

I started studying biology with the intention of pursuing veterinary medicine, but after getting more experience in labs and research courses, I found myself really starting to enjoy research – especially in courses involving genetics and molecular biology. 

Dr. Joshua Miller’s BIOL 323 course highlighted important research in population genetics and really sparked my interest in the field. I owe him a huge thank you for that and for taking me on as a research assistant near the end of my undergrad. We’ve been working on testing the accuracy of a new method for genetic clustering to determine how closely different groups of a species are related. The method could be used to inform conservation efforts, evolutionary theories and even agricultural practices. Now, I’m continuing the work – writing code and running simulations to create and sample genetic information and conducting analyses – as I prepare my graduate school application. 

I'm not exactly sure which direction my future education will take me or where I’ll end up, but I can see myself pursuing research full-time, focusing on bioinformatics and population genetics.

The conservation motive behind this type of work is extremely important to me, and I hope to one day focus my own research on identifying, protecting and hopefully repopulating endangered species.

ADRI STRYDHORST
Office Assistant Certificate
Dean’s Medal - Diploma

I feel grateful for the opportunity to return to school after more than 30 years. I dropped out of college at 19, so going back was a leap. But once I learned about the course content and work placement opportunities in this program, I knew it was the perfect fit. And I knew my family was fully supporting me while I learned to put my own goals first – a new experience for all of us.

Writing my first set of midterms, I felt overwhelmed and worried I wouldn’t do well. When my grades came back proving me wrong, I gained confidence that I could not only succeed but excel (even in business math!).

I’ve always been passionate about efficiency, organization and supporting others. This program strengthened my technical skills, refined my soft skills and prepared me for today’s workplace.

Education is a true privilege, and I was humbled by how hard my professors and fellow students worked every day. This experience showed me that it’s possible to grow, adapt and thrive at any stage of life, and that my life experience is an asset that helps me stay focused and connects my learning to real-world insight.

My field placement in the MacEwan HR Department was an incredible experience that brought everything I had learned together. Caitlin Goyeau and Jen Wilbur’s mentorship, openness and willingness to share their experience helped me grow so much and inspired me to think about my own path. I now work with a fantastic and collaborative team at the MacEwan University Health Centre.

ALDEN EMERSON ERN TAN
Business Management Diploma
Dean’s Medal – Diploma

I've always been passionate about business, specifically financial markets and the economy. What really solidified my decision to attend MacEwan to study business was the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on global economies and financial markets. The whole event captivated me as I watched how different countries reacted, as well as how people reacted in the markets. 

A highlight of my time at MacEwan was the 2025 Business Student Conference. The quality of the event was just beyond my expectations – from the keynote speaker to the different panels and the many connections I made. 

The numerous speakers and industry leaders who came to give talks had the most inspiring effect on me and were truly a highlight of my academic journey with MacEwan. 

I am naturally a big nerd, especially about anything finance, so the biggest surprise in my journey to MacEwan was how big and fun student life could be. Large events like Fall Fest and Winter Fest blew my expectations. The many professional student events were also impressive. Beyond that, I've mastered taking naps on MacEwan's campus in some very uncomfortable-looking positions.

Next, I plan to pursue a full bachelor's degree in commerce in finance and start working towards a Chartered Financial Analyst designation. I hope to work closely within the realm of investing and ultimately have my own wealth-management firm.

ALEXIS RAE THORDARSON
Bachelor of Communication Studies
Dean’s Medal – Degree

Someone once told me they thought I’d be good at communications, and I thought, “why not?” And boy, did I discover how much I loved it. You get to be so creative, which I didn’t even know I was. This degree helped me find myself.

My kokum pushed me to work hard at everything I do. She’s been through so much – Day School, the Indian Boarding Home system – yet she pushed me to work hard at everything I do. When I was struggling or thought, “I can’t do this,” she would lift me up and carry me through. She’s my biggest supporter and inspiration. 

My time at MacEwan wasn’t actually that long – I transferred from the University of Calgary when I relocated to Edmonton. My professor Jaelyn Birch gave me a chance – and that chance led to other opportunities, including my current job. It all started with one reel as an assignment, and boom, I was working in sports content creation. Now, I work at ATS Traffic as a communications and marketing associate, contributing to the world of traffic control and helping people get home safely every day.

I really want to make a difference – it’s a cliché, but it’s true. To me, that doesn’t mean winning an award or creating a viral piece of content; it means showing up at every job, working hard and connecting with the people around me. You can learn so much just by being open to those connections with the people sitting next to you.

SHIBI VARGHESE
Bridge to Canadian Nursing Certificate
Dean’s Medal – Diploma

When I came to MacEwan, I was returning to university in my 40s after a long academic break and relocating to Canada. Entering a new education system and culture was both thrilling and challenging. What truly surprised me was how welcoming and inclusive the environment turned out to be. I felt supported and encouraged, and realized that learning has no age limit.

Despite the challenges, my fellow students’ energy and support made the experience enjoyable. I made some truly close friends I laughed with, learned from and leaned on. That sense of connection made my journey not just meaningful, but memorable.

My family, especially my spouse, was a huge source of support. I’m also grateful to my fellow students, who made learning fun and collaborative. That sense of community made a big difference.

I recently joined Alberta Health Services in a rural setting as a casual registered nurse, which has been a great first step. My goal is to secure a full-time position as soon as possible so I can continue growing my career, gain more hands-on experience and contribute meaningfully to the health-care system.

JOSHUA BRENT WASILEYKO
Bachelor of Commerce, Legal Studies in Business 

I always knew that my interest was in business. Starting small “businesses” as a kid and carrying that passion as I got older, the natural step after high school was a business degree. 

That interest was not focused until I took the introductory business law course with Associate Professor Brian Keller. Without question, being in his class was one of most significant things to ever happen to me, and shaped the direction I ended up taking during and after my time at MacEwan. 

I am currently in law school, a decision and path directly stemming from that business law course three years ago. Going forward, I hope to work in a field that combines my interests of business and law, potentially corporate law. 

My family has always been crucial to my success in school. Whether it was telling me things I may have not wanted to hear, financial support or even the little things like picking me up from school on a cold day, I cannot understate what that has meant to and for me.  

A lawyer gave me a piece of advice that I feel applies perfectly to starting university. Keep your eyes and mind open; the right opportunities are there for you. Engage, try new things, be involved, look for opportunities and be receptive to those that present themselves.

KAYLEIGH LOUISA WEBB
Public Relations Diploma

My journey to MacEwan was a rough one. After my 2020 graduation ceremonies were cancelled, I missed a trip to Disneyland and experienced a breakup – all within the span of six months. I was mentally exhausted and needed a break, so I took one. 

My mom – who is my number-one supporter – went to MacEwan back when it was a college, and I heard nothing but good things about it. I figured that meant I should give it a go, and I'm so glad I did. When I first arrived, I was nervous and felt quite alone. But during my third year, I started talking with a guy at the gym, and now we've been together for two-and-a-half years. I have my whole family to thank for never giving up on me through the thousands of changes I made (and, unfortunately, unnecessary tuition payments).

About three years into my university career, I had switched majors twice and felt overwhelmed, not knowing what to do. I was struggling in my studies, no matter what classes I took. When I joined the Public Relations program, I earned my highest GPA ever, was nominated for a scholarship and made the Dean’s List. 

Currently, I'm working with a business consultancy, acting as a strategic communications specialist. I really love the opportunity to meet so many different people with such diverse stories. I'm not sure what's next, but I know that I'm here now and it's perfect. 

KRISTIN WONG
Bachelor of Applied Human Service Administration
Dean’s Medal - Degree

I’ve always known I wanted a career focused on giving back and enriching the community. My journey with MacEwan actually started 20 years ago in 2005, when I first enrolled in the Arts and Cultural Management program. Over a 15-year career in the non-profit sector, I eventually found my way into health care.

When I discovered the Bachelor of Applied Human Services Administration program, it immediately felt like the right fit. It built on my existing education and experience, while giving me the flexibility to keep working full time and raise my family. Coming back to MacEwan felt like coming home.

While I was completing my studies, I worked at Ronald McDonald House Alberta in Edmonton as the family services manager, and later moved into my current role as team lead for Patient and Family Centred Care at the Stollery Children’s Hospital. I was able to bring real-world experiences into my coursework, so what I was learning wasn’t just theory. 

Receiving the Dean’s Medal is an incredibly emotional and meaningful experience. It has made all the long hours, late nights and effort feel worth it. I hope to take everything this program has taught me to help make the hospital experience just a little better for patients and families.