Magazine of the Waterloo Science and Business Program

2012 Graduate

and Alumni Edition

s c i b u s . u w a t e r l o o . c a

ScibuS.ca

Producing Leaders for the New EconomyI s s u e 1 3

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Visionary Academics

Business Leaders

Entrepreneurs

4 Leaderships Top 5 By: Payal Singh

5 Why Science and Business? By: Gowtham Satkunarajah

6 Life After Science and Business By: Diane Tsang

7 The Road I Took By: Pragna Chandrasekhar

8 The Story of Success By: Emily Irvine

9 Black Diamonds By: Al Lalani

10 An Unforgettable Undergraduate Experience By: Elizabeth Tang

11 Serendipity and Planning By: Shazeen Bandukwala

12 ReflectingonUniversity By: Jessica Konzelmann

13 Why Get Involved? By: Harry Gandhi

14 A Windy Road Towards a Worthwhile Goal By: Saba Rehmani

15 Life is a Constant Cycle of Lost and Found By: Stephanie Bell

Inside...

32012 Graduate and Alumni Edition

Dear Readers,

It is a pleasure to welcome you to the 2012 Graduate and Alumni edition of Scibus.ca.

Year after year it has now become an ingrained tradition for our students to be called as “unique”. This is because our students go out in the professional world and challenge the norm. They take risks and accomplish what they had imagined during university life and beyond. They aspire to “change” and come backtousasalumnitosharetheirworkinthefield.Theytellusthatchangeis always possible and follow it through with the appropriate actions. This tradition is handed down to newer cohorts in our programs who then begin the journey of realizing their own “customized” dreams. We in Science and Business foster the environment of excellence and salute our alumni for their outstanding all round achievements in all spheres of life.

I am grateful to the entire editorial team for their hard work in writing and producing this magazine. I am particularly thankful to Sultanali Ladhani for leading this effort.

Happy Reading!

Kashif MemonA Message from the Program Advisor and Coordinator

Contact Kashif at:519-888-4567 ext 35114kmemon@uwaterloo.ca

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Sultanali LadhaniProject Manager

Looking back at past graduates of the program, every student has taken a unique path to success. The Science and Business program allows each student to explore, grow and develop their skillsets en route to becoming polished professionalsinamultitudeoffields.

The2012editionofthemagazinecontinuestodisplaythemagnificentachievements of our alumni and graduating students who have settled into variouscareersfrommedicineinthefieldofsciencetomarketingandentrepreneurship on the business side.

To this years graduating class, this is only the beginning of a wonderful journey in your lives. Take every opportunity to explore and create new endeavours and develop your capabilities. Regardless of the journey you take after graduation, remain ambitious, humble and happy.

Toourcurrentstudents,Universityisauniquetimeinyourlifetofindyouridentity and build lasting connections. Relish the moment to become involved and develop relationships whether on campus or in the workplace. This is your journey, so make the most of every opportunity and enjoy the ride!

Yours Sincerely, Sultanali

Contact Sultanali at:519-888-4567 ext 36684sladhani@uwaterloo.ca

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Payal SinghLeaderships Top 5 BSc Biotechnology & Economics, University of WaterlooMasters of Business Administration, Marketing Specialization, Wilfrid Laurier University

CURRENT EMPLOYMENT:Team Leader, Customer Network, Suncor Energy

FUTURE ENDEAVOURS:“The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time.” - Abraham Lincoln

In the simplest term, leadership means “the process of social influenceinwhichonepersoncanenlisttheaidandsupportof others in the accomplishment of a common task”. i

Everyonehastheirowndefinitionofleadershipandwhatitmeanstothem.ThedefinitionofleadershipIhadwhenIgraduated from the University of Waterloo was to manage a group of people to deliver value for an organization. Through my 7 years of experience with Suncor Energy in progressive roles in Marketing, Sales and Operations, I have had the opportunity to observe a number of great leaders and to lead my own teams. Based on these experiences, I have changedmydefinitionofwhatleadershipmeansandpresentthenewdefinitiontoyouthrough5keyattributesthatIbelieve every great leader should have.

1. Setting a Compelling ViSion

Setting a business goal is the easy part; creating a compelling vision that motivates people is what makes a great leader. John F. Kennedy’s vision of “landing a man to the Moon and returning him safely to Earth” within the decade was a compelling vision that motivated the American people to think they could accomplish anything. He didn’t know how they were going to do it but he motivated people to want to achieve this vision.

2. proVide Clarity

If I was to tell you to go North and then West in about 5-6 km and then to go over the bridge would you end up at the Student Life Centre? Probably not because I haven’t told you why you should be at the Student Life Centre or where to start from. In order to gain alignment and execute on your vision, you need to be able to communicate that vision clearly. As put by Kennedy: “send a man to the moon, get him home safely and do it in 10 years.” That’s as crystal clear as it gets.

3. StriVe for Change

Doyourememberthetypewriter,floppydiskorICQ?That’s probably because they are extinct now. The world is not going to stand still so you need to be able to keep pace by accepting changes in the business environment and consumer preferences. Also, in order to manage change,

leaders need to be able to make decisions even when they don’t have full information.

4. Keep your ego in CheCK

Accept ideas from everyone and everywhere, they make your ideas stronger. As the saying goes two heads are better than one.

5. don’t Be afraid to fail

Take calculated risks - It’s the only way to achieve greatness. Dont believe me? Just ask Christopher Columbus.

If you take only one thing away from this article, I hope it would be that leadership is not simple. It requires years to develop and there is always room for improvement. I challenge you to take every opportunity you have to learn fromothersanddevelopyourdefinitionofleadership.

Below are some additional comments on leadership from leaders within Suncor:

“Leadership is about articulating a vision of where we want to go and it’s about telling the story of why we want to get there. Great leaders can clear away barriers from their team, and then step out of the way and let them map their own course.

My practical leadership tip - It’s critical to build the trust and relationship with your team members. Go out for coffee or lunch together - no better way to get to know someone than ‘breaking’ the bread with them. Learn as much as you can: when is their birthday? What is the name of their significantother?Andsharesomethingaboutyourselftoo.The foundation of trust you build will deliver great success to you, your team, and your organization.”

- Emma Southwood, Manager: Merchandising and Optimization

“Personally, I have found that as you advance in your career, what you focus on changes but you always need to be purposeful of how you spend your time.

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52012 Graduate and Alumni Edition

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson. The Science and Business Program gives students a unique identity, and once they embrace it, the sky is the limit!

Many of my co-op interviews featured one prominent question: “Why did you choose Science and Business?” Honestly, my answers have progressively changed over the years. In hindsight, all my responses were unique and in a way accurately described Science and Business. When Iwasinfirstyear,myresponsewasthat“theScienceand Business Program gave me a challenge in university. My whole life I have been an enthusiast for learning and this program fascinated me with various learning opportunities.”

By second year, I had joined various clubs across campus and had one co-op term completed. With these experiences, it led me to a fresh perspective which then altered my response: “I realize Science and Business gives me the tools to speak and comprehend two different disciplines. Also, the program has an identity, and part of that identity is moulding their students into leaders of tomorrow. Science and Business had created a vast network of leaders and I wanted to be a leader.”

When I entered third year, I realized the program offered me something unique, a competitive advantage of sorts against other students. Hence my response changed once again: “The Science and Business Program gives me a unique skill set. I have gained many quality characteristics through this program such as problem solving and

analytical skills from my science courses and teamwork and communication skills from my business courses. Most importantly, this program has taught me to think outside of the box. The program has given me the tools to address any problem with an open mind and in a constantly changing business world it is very important to have that mentality.”

Myfourthandfinalco-optermwasfastapproachingandIthoughtIfinallyknewhowtoanswerthatquestion:“Theprogram allowed me to grow as a person. The program offers many specializations giving the students freedom to choose their own path. Furthermore, I was chosen to be a teaching assistant for the First Year Science and Business workshops where I helped nurture and hone the future of Science and Business. It made me realize that I had come full circle. It was a realization that I had become a true leader in my community.”

Looking at my responses now in fourth year, it seems that there was one answer that eluded me all this time, yet this was an answer that had stared me in the face these past four years. Now, if anyone asks me why I chose the Science and Business Program, I answer it in one word..... “Opportunities!” •

Gowtham SatkunarajahWhy Science and Business?BSc Honours Co-op Science and Business - No Specialization, University of Waterloo, 2012

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:Banking Specialist, CIBCSubmission Coordinator, Health Canada Business Development Specialist, One Voice One Team Data Analyst, RIM

As a senior leader you should focus on the following:

1. Be able to manage change.

2. Manage talent within your organization and focus a significantportionoftimeonattracting,retainingandgrowing talent.

3. Leaders need to provide clear direction “ambiguity creates wiggle room... It makes it easy to rationalize failure.” ii

4. Lastly, leaders need to be able to prioritize and allocate resources. The focus should be on doing a few things really well. ”

- Deborah Gullaher, Vice President of Marketing

ihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeadershipiiSwitch-How to change things when change is hard, Chip and Dan Heath, pp 86 •

leaderS of tomorrow

opportunitieS

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I decided to pursue a legal career after I graduated from the Science and Business program at the University of Waterloo. I attended law school at the University of Ottawa. During that time, I had the opportunity to work with a variety of organizations including the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic, and the Public Interest Advocacy Centre. Currently, I am completing my articling term with the Ministry of Consumer Services where I assist lawyers on a wide array of consumer protection issues,whichisworkthatIfindtobeinteresting,challengingand rewarding.

The Science and Business program provided me with a solid foundation on which to build my legal career. It has provided me with the ability to approach an issue from many angles. It has taught me to think from the client’s perspective, allowing me to provide better client service. It has also given me invaluable professional development tools that I still put into practice today.

approaChing an iSSue from many angleS

The diversity of the Science and Business program gave me the ability to approach an issue from many angles. I remember on any given day as a Science and Business student,myschoolbagcouldcontain:mycost-benefitanalysis textbook for morning lecture, a lab coat and goggles for my afternoon molecular biology lab, my business plan and presentation notes for my evening technology development workshop – and a pair of high heels for my co-opinterviewoverthelunchhour.Ilearnedtobeflexibleandto combine knowledge and approach issues from different perspectives. These skills have been helpful to me in my legal career. For example, through my articles, summer jobs and internships, I have worked on a wide variety of issues ranging from: corporate law, real estate, privacy, technology law, administrative law and health law. My background was helpful in providing me with the ability to access, analyze and apply the law across many disciplines.

thinKing from the Client’S perSpeCtiVe

The Science and Business Technology Development Workshop showed me how important it is to think from the

client’s perspective. I remember working with my teammates in the Workshop to develop a business plan to bring a scientificinnovationfromthelaboratorytothemarket.Wewererequiredtodefendthescientificvalidityoftheproductand pitch our proposal to our classmates, who played the role of potential investors. We quickly realized that we had to interpret and translate the technical jargon and explain it in plain language to our “investors”. This experience taught me how to put myself in the client’s shoes which has enabled me to provide better client service.

profeSSional deVelopment toolS and praCtiCal experienCe

My experience with the Waterloo Co-op Program has beeninvaluabletome.Igraduatedwiththebenefitofnearly 2 years of practical experience in both the private andpublicsector,inalaboratoryandinanoffice,inalargenational corporation and a small organization with less than a dozen employees. I still put into practice the professional development tools that I learned as a co-op student. For example, how to craft a concise and professional resume and prepare for an interview. Most importantly, I learned how to design a career plan setting career goals and priorities while balancing work and personal life.

adViCe to the SCienCe and BuSineSS graduating ClaSS

I encourage the graduating class to reach out to others in the Science and Business community. Connect with students and alumni through the Science and Business Ambassadors and the Science and Business Students Association to learn more about the career path that you are interested in pursuing. Speak to the staff at the Science and Business Resource Centre and Career Services for advice on resumes and the application process for graduate and professional schools. I also wish you all the best in your future endeavours. •

Li fe After Sc ience and Bus inessBSc Honours Co-op Science and Business - Biology Specialization, Minor in Economics, University of Waterloo, 2007Juris Doctor, Common Law, University of Ottawa, 2011

CURRENT EMPLOYMENT:Student-at-Law, Ministry of the Attorney General, Ministry of Consumer Services - Legal Services Branch

Diane Tsang

72012 Graduate and Alumni Edition

“two roadS diVerged in a yellow wood, and Sorry i Could not traVel Both” (roBert froSt)

It was a sunny afternoon in March 2007… I was preparing formyfinalGrade12examsinChennai,India.ButIhadtomake another very important decision at the time – what am I going to do after high school? It wasn’t just about what program I was going to do, but where I was going. As soon as I got a conditional acceptance letter from the University of Waterloo, I knew that would be top on my list, but what was I going to pick – was it going to be Nanotechnology Engineering? After all, the Faculty of Engineering at UW was among the best in North America. Then, there was Science and Business. This was the more practical option for me, as I wasstillonthefenceaboutwhichfieldIwouldwanttobein.

I am extremely happy that I chose the Science and Business path. It has given me that bird’s eye view of both the biotechnologyandbusinessfields.Notonlyisitflexibleinthevariety of courses that it offers during the academic term, but also in the types of co-op jobs that one gets to do.

enter the BuSineSS world

I for one, have been everywhere for my co-op terms – geographicallyaswellasfield-wise.Istartedoffasahesitant,young Marketing intern at Britannia Industries Limited, Bangalore, India (one of the leading FMCG companies in India). I worked closely with the Innovations Manager as a New Product Development Intern; I conducted a thorough market research on toddler-foods and eventually suggested six different new product types that Britannia could potentiallyintroducetothemarket.Myfirstworktermtaught me a lot about questioning things and being proactive.

I went back to Chennai, India for my next co-op term to work as an HR intern at Nokia India Pvt Ltd., where I worked at the production facility in the outskirts of the city. Here, as an HR intern, I got to witness employee-related issues (unions, strikes, how these strikes were handled diplomaticallybytheHRhead),firsthand!

My third co-op term was with Novartis Pharmaceuticals in New Jersey. I was gradually getting a feel of the science world.

I worked as an Oncology Business intern and got to work with Novartis’ processes of clinical trials and allocation of drugs and resources in various parts of the world.

These co-op terms helped give me a global perspective of the business work culture in completely different industries (Fast Moving Consumer Goods, Telecom, Pharmaceuticals) and entirely different departments.

that “eureKa!” moment

Formyfinalco-opterm,Iwantedtoworkinanentirelydifferent setting. I wanted to enter the world of science/academia and work in a lab as a research assistant – I was still unsure as to whether I wanted to become a scientist or remain in the business world. I got a wonderful opportunity to work with Dr. Robert Le Roy of Theoretical Chemistry at the University of Waterloo for my 8-month co-op term. I definitelymadeuseofwhatI’dlearntfrommypreviousco-opterms at the lab. Dr. Le Roy is an inspirational supervisor, and a mentor, who is ever so ready to answer any question you might have for him! I was given the opportunity to represent him at Ohio State University’s 66th International Symposium onMolecularSpectroscopy.Presentingascientificpaper,I realized, is nothing like presenting a business project/deliverables. I learned new skills and this increased my confidencemany-fold!

“two roadS diVerged….”

I am truly lucky to have had such wonderful learning experiences during my co-op terms. These four-and-something years have been a constant learning experience – I have learned from my supervisors, my program advisor, my professors, and most importantly my peers.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I –” I took the one that has given me the most satisfaction. Unlike Robert Frost, I took a road that diverged yet again into two very different paths of Science and Business; I was able to take these roads and learn and grow as an individual. I look forward tograduatingandenteringthat“real”world,aconfident,experienced Science and Business graduate, looking to learn and grow much more… •

Pragna Chandrasekhar The Road I Took

BSc Honours Co-op Science and Business - Biotechnology Specialization, University of Waterloo, 2012

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:New Product Development Intern, Britannia Industries Limited, India HR Intern, Nokia India Pvt. LimitedOncology Business Intern, Novartis PharmaceuticalsTheoretical Chemistry Research Assistant, University of Waterloo

FUTURE ENDEAVOURS:Graduate! Take over the world of science using my business experiences

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The Stor y o f Success

BSc Honours Co-op Science and Business - Biotechnology Specialization, University of Waterloo, 2012

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:Fourth Year Thesis Student, Dr. J. David Spafford, University of WaterlooResearch Assistant, Electrophysiology, Xenon Pharmaceuticals,Laboratory Technician, Dynamic Microbial Species in Recreational Water, Lab for Foodbourne Zoonoses Microbiology, Public Health Agency of CanadaLaboratory Assistant, CIPARS and C-EnterNet, Lab for Foodbourne Zoonoses Microbiology, Public Healthy Agency of CanadaAssistant Regulatory Officer, Pest Management Regulatory Affairs, Health Canada

Emily Irvine

The journey to success is not linear, and often times it is the diversions that best shape who we become and where we end up. The Science and Business program has made such a huge impact in helping to shape my story of success. I strongly believe thatitisthepeoplewhosurroundusthatmostinfluenceourjourneys, and my peers and colleagues in the Science and Business program have helped put me in an ideal position for success. These individuals will be decision-makers, advisors, and leaders intheirchosenfieldsand IstronglybelievethatI am a better person for having had the opportunity to work with them and learn from them.

Successcannotbeclearlydefinedanditcannotbedeterminedexternally; it has to come from within. For me, success is closely linked with happiness and my true happiness comes from being surrounded by supportive people while I am met withdifficultchallenges,andwhereIamgiventheresponsibilityand freedom to make mistakes.

mentorShip

I have always had an idea of what my personal success entails but it is through the mentors that I have encountered who have helped me better define that notion of success andhave been ever supportive in helping me achieve my goals along the way. I know that I will be forever grateful for these mentors who have come from all walks of life in the form of supervisors, colleagues, professors, and peers. They have provided me with encouragement and advice to help me know how to best move forward and achieve my goals. These are the individuals that are in your life who are able to tell you about your strengths and weaknesses, where your areas to improve lie and how to overcome setbacks in order to be successful.

The Science and Business program has been an exciting undergraduatedegreeinthatitisbothflexibleandrigid.Thisstructure, in its own way, was a form of mentorship. It has provided me with the opportunity to explore my interests andexpandmyknowledgeinmyfield,whilealsoensuringthatI remained open-minded and well-rounded. By forcing me to step outside of my area of expertise to take in new knowledge

and learn new techniques, I have been able to maintain a more global perspective of situations and decisions. This includes learningaboutfinancingandpatents,marketingandconsumerbehaviour, and human resource management.

paSSion

The co-op program has provided me with valuable hands-on experiences where I have been given responsibility to conduct my own experiments, develop protocols, and take on a leadership role in the lab. I have become comfortable in the laboratory setting and proficient with techniques inelectrophysiology, molecular biology, and microbiology. It has been through these experiences that have made me feel confidentthatIwillbenefitacademicallyaswellaspersonallyfrom pursuing graduate studies in biology to explore answers to the unknowns. It is the excitement of these discoveries that drives my passion for research.

Ilovetacklingdifficultproblemswhileprovidingleadershipingroups, which has not been limited to the lab bench. A huge advantage that Science and Business students have over our peers from other programs is our experience with group work and presentations. We conduct case studies that provide real-life examples with a chance to apply our knowledge. These analyses have provided me with an opportunity to tackle different aspects of a problem, ranging from technological difficultiestolegalissuestofinancialchallenges.Oftenduringmy undergrad, I took on a leadership role in these projects where I was able to then apply the new knowledge gained to my work and research experiences.

perSiStenCe

Success does not come easily and it is often the difficultiesthat most shape our ideals and our ultimate definition ofsuccess. Persistence enables us to move forward through these challenges and toward success. I have taken difficultcourses in my undergrad and have sometimes received less than desirable grades, and yet I have no regrets because the learning experiences from these mistakes have been so valuable and make me more motivated to persevere towards achieving my goals.

92012 Graduate and Alumni Edition

The journey of success is not travelled alone and I hope that every mentor has some realization of how much of a positive influencetheyhaveontheirmentees.Theknowledgegainedin the course of my undergrad, both inside and outside of the classroom will continue to impact me as I move forward, and my professors are largely to thank for these invaluable experiences. Most importantly, the friendships that were

developed in the Science and Business program will last forever, and I very much look forward to hearing about everyone’s future successes. •

Black DiamondsBSc Honours Science - Biotechnology & Economics, University of Waterloo, 2006Master of Business, Entrepreneurship & Technology, University of Waterloo, 2007

EMPLOYMENTCurrent - Principal Apprentice (Associate) at The Lalani Group (Real Estate Finance, Development & Acquisitions) Past - Founder at: Altisymento (Technology Start-up), Nanovate Inc. (Nanotech Medical Devices), Off the Hook Entertainment (Special Events & Promotions)

Al Lalani

Did you know that black diamonds are thought to have originated in space? They are the most rare of gems, found only in two geographically constrained areas in the world, and they are the most unique in structure and composition. I wear two; one on each of my ears. To the general public most wouldn’t recognize these qualities unless I tell them. I use the same screening criteria as a core philosophy in all aspects of life; always looking for and acquiring those “hidden gems”andopportunities.Ifindlifetobelike….wellIguessyou can say a stem cell using this philosophy. Allowing for a dynamicflowofdiversecontinuityandthusmitigatingthepossibility of boredom - I really hate being bored.

Even my educational degrees follow suit. Biotech/Econ (or Sci/Bus) is a black diamond in its simplest sense; providing students with a well embodied and systematic skill set that can be deployed in a multitude of careers and yet not widely recognized by the general public. However, with a little explanation and some icing on top people are curiously wowed about the program. I combined my undergrad with the Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) program at the University of Waterloo to enhance my genetically embedded, entrepreneurial pragmatism and the journey that followed was incredible, but that’s for an entirely different article.

Take a look at my resume and you should be confused. I ran an entertainment company, co-founded a nanotechnology medical devices company , co-authored a book and now workinrealestatefinanceanddevelopment……tonameafew. Oddly enough I doubt that my adventurous career path is far from over and don’t feel it to be random at all. This is where I was led by jumping on those opportunities which

extrapolate on my interests and skill sets.

Today I work in the family business focused on real estate finance,developmentandacquisitions.Whileitmayseemlike a logical conclusion to have followed suit it was really never my intent, at least not until one Mr. Kashif Memon (unknowingly, might I add) made me realize the opportunity from within. Using some analytical thinking and creativity, I continue to unlock unforeseen opportunities and intend to grow this business in a multitude of directions. Don’t get mewrong,itisafighttomakemyfamilyrealizeandacceptmyviewsbutitisafightworthbattlingforandonewhichI won’t stop. Currently the family has provided me with the privilege and responsibility to lead a new development of a signature property in the downtown Toronto core as well as discretionary autonomy on a number of other key properties around the world. While real estate is pretty standard for most, it is really a matter of perspective and opportunities lie in territories not yet completely explored.

It is only with my experiences along with the diverse and critical skill sets developed, in part, throughout my educational marathon that I was, and still am, able to quickly learn, adjust and expand on those opportunities that become prevalent in whatever setting I fall into. And it is thisabilitythathasallowedmetoovercomedifficultiesandexcel in all the different ventures I have explored.

I hardly consider myself an incredible person, yet with the skills I have acquired and my core philosophies, I have been and continue to be taken on an incredible journey. •

a well emBodied SKillSet

unloCK unforeSeen opportunitieS

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Elizabeth TangAn Unforgettable Undergraduate Exper ienceBSc Honours Co-op Science and Business - Biology Specialization, University of Waterloo, 2012

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:Product Management Analyst, SymcorBusiness Analyst, Cancer Care OntarioProject Delivery Officer, CGIProject Coordinator, Manulife Financial

FUTURE ENDEAVOURS:Travelling before entering the workforce!

IremembermyfirstdayatWaterlooasifitwereyesterday;I drove up to Ron Eydt Village, eager-eyed and nervous, unsure of the path I had just chosen to pursue. We had been told to work hard in elementary school to excel in high school, and work harder in high school to attend a great post-secondary school, and I knew all of my work had led me here. What I could never have imagined was how valuable and worthwhile my journey would be.

I, like many, had the predicament of choosing between science and business. I knew that I had a love for learning science, though my extroverted, organized personality was drawn towards business. I attended the Ontario University Fair in the fall of my senior year at high school, and a lady at the University of Waterloo booth told me ‘We have a program called Science and Business!’- Bingo! She had hit my soft spot, and I immediately knew that this program was the one I wanted to attend.

The transition from high school to University can be overwhelming at times, especially when we are separated from the familiarity of our lives at home. It was a steep learning curve, but with each passing academic term, I found that I was able to balance my lifestyle in ways that I never knewIcould.Iwasabletoapproachadifficultassignmentwith less hesitation, learn how to study for midterms, and livedthemeaningof‘ifatfirstyoudon’tsucceed,try,tryagain’.

The Science and Business program is truly one of a kind. Its interdisciplinary approach to learning allows students to experience a wide range of courses and develop their analytical, time management, and communication skills. Oneofthemostbeneficialaspectstotheprogramaretheinteractive workshops. It is through these workshops that we are able to apply our creative thinking and develop our self-confidence.WhatIenjoymostisthatweareabletoworkclosely with our peers in the program. As a future graduate of 2012, I must say that I could NOT have asked for a better graduating class. We have grown to know each individual’s personality, quirks, and have certainly built lasting friendships,

relationships, and future colleagues. I know that each personinmyfourthandfinalSCBUSworkshopwillsucceedin whatever endeavour he or she chooses to embark on.

I began my co-op career as a Product Management Analyst, and moved on to a Business Analyst, Project Delivery Officer,andspentmy 8 month co-op as a Project Coordinator. I took each co-op term as an opportunity to discover my likes and dislikes, and what I could see myself pursuing as a full-time career. I knew immediatelyaftermyfirstco-opthatIwasmeanttoworkinsomebusiness-relatedfieldwhereIwouldbeabletoapply my communication and coordination skills. Although I continue to love studying science, especially biology, I take pleasure in working with others and being able to contribute in a team environment. After considering my choices upon graduation, I have made the decision to enter the workforce. I feel that the Science and Business program has given me the necessary skills, attitudes, and mindset to explore employment opportunities with poise and enthusiasm.

As a true advocate of this program, I value what Science and Business has provided me; self-acceptance, development of my skills, and most importantly, life-long memories. The sleeplessnightswerealwaysfollowedbybrightdaysfilledwith compassionate peers and professors.

The day is quickly approaching, the day we have all been anxiously anticipating upon our arrival years ago – our graduation. That being said, I wish the graduating class of 2012 well wishes on their future accomplishments and I look forward to crossing paths in the coming years! •

an interdiSCiplinary approaCh

112012 Graduate and Alumni Edition

The most common question asked as graduation looms closer is “what are you doing after undergrad?” Upon graduation from Science and Business the only thing I knew for certain about my future was that it would be oneofscientificpursuit,andthatIwasgoingtotravelthatsummer. For at that time I had no idea what my future career would look like -- it felt great to say ‘travel,’ which wouldgenerallyfieldanyfurthertalkabout‘reallife.’Itwas only two years later, after my acceptance into medical school, that I felt ready to answer that looming question.

I can best characterize my pathway after undergrad as various acts of serendipity mixed with some planning. The day after writing my last undergrad exam ever I boarded myflighttoSouthAmerica,whereIspentthesummertraveling. Through connections established during co-op, I then worked at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto in palliative care clinical research. After a trip to South East Asia I came home to start a Masters of Science in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Guelph. Upon its completion I began medical school at McMaster’s Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine at the Waterloo Regional Campus.

Science and Business has changed the way I think. I continuously balance the need to provide excellent patient-centered care with my knowledge of health as a scarce resource in a service driven economy. It is well known that Canada has an excellent standard of care, yet another understood fact is that our system is cash strapped. My

Science and Business background helps me think about healthinaneconomicandefficientmanner--whichisimportant, as health care professionals must be smart and efficientinhowweallocateourscarceresources.Iamalsomore receptive and aware of the technological revolution medicine is constantly undergoing. With my undergraduate knowledge as a platform, I am in a better position to assess new technologies and the companies behind them.

Doctors are not really taught the ‘business’ of medicine. We must learn on our own how to set up and manage a practice and its resources. Science and Business gave me a jumpstart in knowing how to handle and run my own practice and manage my resources. My mind is also more opentodiverseoptionsandIhaveawidefieldofviewwhen problem solving.

One of the many things I loved about Science and Business was the diversity of learning lessons. I really enjoyed being surrounded by peers who had such varied interests from the arts to environmental science to biology to technology. Itdefinitelymakesmeetingformerclassmatesnowmuchmore interesting. By virtue of the dynamic program with co-op, I have also come to really enjoy change and continually seek ways to avoid feeling stagnant in life.

Every opportunity I did or did not seize has taught me something that I can carry forward. My advice to anyone at any stage of life is to continually keep yours interesting and meaningful! •

Serendip i ty and PlanningBSc Honours Co-op Science and Business - Biochemistry Specialization, Minor in Economics, University of Waterloo, 2008MSc, Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, 2010MD Candidate, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, 2013

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:Product Development Technician, Colgate Palmolive Canada Inc.Proposal Coordinator, Ericsson CanadaHealth and Medical Volunteer, Volunteer Abroad (Volunteered in Nepal) Research Analyst, Princess Margaret Hospital Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care

FUTURE ENDEAVOURS:To be a well-balanced family physician and volunteer in medically underserviced places around the world

Shazeen Bandukwala

giVing you a jumpStart

Keep it meaningful

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BSc Honours Co-op Science and Business, Non-Specialization,University of Waterloo, 2011

CURRENT EMPLOYMENT:Business Analyst, Strategy and Operations Consulting Practice, Deloitte

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:Customer Service & Sales Intern, Petro-CanadaSales Process and Training Intern, Petro-CanadaEDGE Consultant, Scottish Enterprise Product Manager, Redwood Strategic

Jessica Konzelmann

Five years, 4 co-op jobs, 41 courses and 6 lab sessions later, it all came to an end in June 2011. It’s amazing how fast university passed by. One day I was a student living the dream – late starts, Friday’s off and 6 best friends piled into one house. Now, “real life” has started, responsibilities have set in and I’m working to build my career. Although this transition seemed (and often is) quite scary, it is one I have been working towards since I made the decision to go to University. I admit, when I came to Waterloo in September 2006, I was torn between what potential career paths I wanted to pursue, but one thing I knew for certain was that I needed an education from a respectable school.

I have always felt that you don’t truly know what you want to do until you try it. So in high school when I was deciding what university to attend, I knew I wanted a program that wasflexibleandhelpedmebuildthefoundationIneededtosucceed. The Science and Business program at the University ofWaterlooseemedliketherightfitforme.Ihadapassionfor the physical sciences but had a natural aptitude for business, and this program was a harmonious mixture of the two. The tipping point for me however, was the co-op option Waterloo offers. The combination of the academic and work opportunitiesseemedliketheidealfit–notonlywasIbeingexposedtotwofieldsofstudythatIwastrulyinterestedin,but I would get real work experience with real pay.

the deep diVe

Thefirstfewdaysoncampuscanbedauntingforanyone.Compared to my high school, the University of Waterloo campus appeared to be the size of a small city. There was always something going on, whether it was a fundraising or club event, job recruiting or study groups burning the midnight oil – there was someone or something to see or do. To get past the intimidation of it all, the best piece of advice I was ever given was “just get involved”. Those three simple, but powerful words started a perpetual series of activities, events, and initiatives that I found myself involved with. It waswhenIfinallydoveinandsawtheopportunitiesthatthe university and the Science and Business program offered students that my university career really began. Throughout myfiveyearsoncampusIwasinvolvedwiththeScienceand Business Ambassadors, our annual Fusion Conference,

volunteer and recruiting initiatives and many others. It was these experiences that helped shape my character and enhance my overall university experience.

figuring it all out

After two work terms at Petro-Canada in Customer Service and Sales, in my third year I decided to jet set off to Glasgow Scotland to work as a consultant. By this time I knew business was the direction I was heading towards, but I wanted to learn what it meant to be a “consultant”, and test the waters to decide if this profession was right for me. Working internationally not only guided me towards my current profession but taught me invaluable life skills. Ilearnedfirsthandtheimportanceofcommunicationandeffective leadership. I learned how to work with a diverse group of individuals to deliver exceptional results, and most importantly I learned what it took to be a great consultant. What I learned in Scotland fed into my last co-op job as a Product Manager at Redwood Strategic. I can say with 100% confidencethatitwastheskillsandlifelessonsIlearnedthrough co-op that helped me transition from a confused high schoolstudentin2006toaconfidentManagementConsultantin 2011.

the final pieCe

September 2010 was a big year – it was graduation year, and time to make major decisions. By then I knew my heart was set on Management Consulting, but the next challenge was making this dream a reality. Fortunately, the University of Waterloo has an exceptional network of alumni, career advisors and faculty who are supportive and willing to provide advice and guidance. After attending employer information sessions, talking to alumni and career counselors, I was confidentwhenrecruitingseasonbeganthatWaterloohelpedmebuildthereputationIneededtofindmydreamjob.Now,7monthspost-graduationandreflectingonmytimeatWaterloo, I see how I sculpted my academic and career path and how Waterloo and the Science and Business program helped me do this. My advice for prospective students: university is what you make of it. Look at every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Waterloo will provide you with the tools you need, but it is how you choose to implement these tools that will make all the difference. •

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132012 Graduate and Alumni Edition

Why Get Involved?Candidate for BSc - Biotechnology & Economics Co-op, University of Waterloo, 2015

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:Business Analyst, eHealth Ontario

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:Business Coordinator, University of Waterloo Space Robotics TeamScience and Business Teaching Assistant, University of WaterlooYouth Development Committee, Ministry of Children and Youth ServicesYouth Advisory Council, Health CanadaExecutive Team, University of Waterloo Badminton Club

Harry Gandhi

FUTURE ENDEAVOURS:Currentlyworkingonawebsitestart-up,andplantofurthergodeeperinthefieldofentrepreneurship

As a second year student, I am excited to see what the future has to offer with the Science and Business Program. Justinthefirsttwoyears,Ihavelearntskillsthathavenotonly developed me as a student, but also as an individual. Thebiggesttakeawayfrommyfirstyearatuniversitywas learning to get involved and embracing my interests. This has opened up doors of opportunities, because such initiatives lead to strong transferable skills that can be applied almost anywhere.

Currently I am the Business Lead for the Space Robotics Team, where myself and two other Leads (also Science & Business Students) manage the business team. This includes co-ordinating the tasks of the marketing team, sponsorship team,andthefinance/administration team. This has proven to be a truly valuable experience as it has led to me to a strong understanding of leadership and management.

Another great experience I have had this semester was of becoming a teaching assistant. This was a great way to teach and to learn. This was really a two-way learning curve. There was a lot that the students picked-up from me, but there was even more that I picked up from the students. Each student has a different learning style, and I learned to cater my communication based on who I was talking to. This was a big boost to my communication and interpersonal skills as I learned to do it not only at a formal level, but also at an informal level.

An interest of mine that has developed as a result of the various experiences is my passion for entrepreneurship. I am currently working on a website start-up with a couple offriendstogettrafficontothewebsiteandflexsomeof

the marketing skills that we have picked up. I am using this as a stepping stone to enter the entrepreneurial world, and wish to further develop more ideas that can be used to solve real-life problems. In my opinion, my program is a great breeding ground for entrepreneurs, as it lies on the intersection between science and business. This is because Science and Business students have a great aptitude for learning the technical and scientificskillsofascientist, and also the critical thinking and soft skills of a businessperson.Through these experiences, I have met people from vast walks of life- from astrobiology professors to students who have created their own start-ups. This is the fruit of getting involved. In my opinion, it’s about learning and appreciating a variety of experiences, while doing something you enjoy. I would like to conclude with a quote from one of my intellectual heroes, Steve Jobs, “a lot of people in our industry haven’t had very diverse experiences. So they don’t have enough dots to connect, and they end up with very linear solutions without a broad perspective on the problem. The broader one’s understanding of the human experience, the better design we will have,” and that is what getting involved is all about.•

2011 SBSA Exec Team

getting inVolVed iS aBoutlearning and appreCiating aVariety of experienCeS whiledoing Something you enjoy

scibus.ca

By the time this magazine is published, it will have been a decadesinceIfirststeppedfootontheUWcampusasahighschool senior for the March Break Open House in 2002. It has been (and continues to be) an amazing journey! As I share my story, I will include a few words of wisdom from leaders I admire.

new BeginningS within the eye of the Storm:

Upon graduation, I moved to New York to join Oliver Wyman’s Financial Services practice. Management Consulting was an attractive career choice for me because it offered challenge,variety,andtheopportunityforsignificantimpact.Over the years, I worked on projects that varied in scope, industry(financialservices,aviation,telecom)andgeography(North America, Africa, Australia). In each assignment, our team was brought on by senior executives of large organizations to help them address their most pressing strategic challenges.

Of all the opportunities consulting provided me, I especially enjoyed living in different cities and travelling. Some of my fondest memories include living in New York during the 2008 election—whenAmericaelecteditsfirstAfricanAmericanPresident, whitewater rafting with my team members in the Zambezi River, watching a live India-Pakistan cricket match during the ICC trophy games in Johannesburg, and taking part in festivals and footy games like a true Melbournite.

But life as a consultant wasn’t entirely rosy. 2008, was, after all,alsowhentheworldwasseeingaglobalfinancialcrisisand the beginnings of perhaps the deepest recessions since theGreatDepression.WorkinginfinancialservicesandbeingbasedinNewYork—theworld’sfinancialcapital—meant that I was in the midst of the worst of it. Our clients, andthefinancialindustryatlarge,wereunderimmenseandunprecedentedstress.Withinmyfirstyearin‘thereal world,’ I saw large banks get acquired (Merrill Lynch, Washington Mutual, Wachovia), bailed out (AIG, Citigroup, Bank of America) and virtually collapse (Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers). Needless to say, it was scary! The crisis also felt ‘personal’ – several of my friends in banking and consulting lost their jobs, so early into their careers. The experience made me realize that nothing in life is certain, that we must

be grateful for what we have, and that we shouldn’t take anything for granted. The experience also gave me a lot of perspective, and instilled in me the spirit to embrace each obstacle in life as a learning experience.

“The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word ‘crisis.’ One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger—but recognize the opportunity.” (John F. Kennedy)

SCratChing the entrepreneurial itCh, then emBraCing the unexpeCted:

Overall, I really enjoyed my consulting experience, and would not trade it for anything. I could have very well built a long-term career in the corporate world, as I was no ‘square peg in a round hole.’ But ultimately, I felt a calling to explore my creative side and thus resigned from consulting to venture down the entrepreneurial path. Looking back, I was strangelyunscared.Instead,Iwasbright-eyedandfilledwithexcitement—somemightsaynaïveandoverconfident—butasthey say, sometimes ignorance really can be bliss.

“Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.” (Bill Gates)

Since leaving the comforts of a ‘day job,’ I have worked on several projects, failed a lot, learned a lot, and started over. I have created the best-laid plans and then had to pivot countless times. Like a mouse in a maze, I continue to do this, faithfulthatIwillultimatelyfindmyway.AndeachtimeIfallflatonmyfacewithmyegoshot,Ifeelthepressuretoshowthe world at least some metric of success, if by nothing else than by picking myself back up and refusing to give up.

My long-term goal is to build a social enterprise that addresses issues that I am deeply passionate about, including healthcare and food, education, and international development. The short-term path is fuzzy, but I know that each opportunity I pursue today is merely a building block towardsfulfillingthisvision.Assuch,Iamfinallyembracingthe chaos and uncertainty, with a belief that the ‘dots’ will ultimately connect in the future.

“…you can’t connect the dots looking forward. You can only connect them looking backwards, so you have to trust that the dots

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A Windy Road Towards a Worthwhile GoalBSc Honours Co-op Science and Business, Biochemistry Specialization, University of Waterloo, 2007

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:S.C. Johnson, Eli Lilly, Microsoft, Research In Motion

FUTURE ENDEAVOURS:Working on building a business, while living in Buenos Aires (yes, “4-Hour workweek style”i)

Saba Rehmani

152012 Graduate and Alumni Edition

Life is a Constant Cycle of Lost and FoundBSc Honours Science and Business, Biology Specialization, University of Waterloo, 2009Masters of Business Administration, Strategic Management Specialization, Wilfrid Laurier University, 2011

CURRENT EMPLOYMENT:Assistant Brand Manager, Kellogg Canada

CO-OP EXPERIENCE:Business Analyst in Global Strategy, McCain FoodsProject Management, Sun Life Financial

Stephanie Bell

In 2005 I entered the Science and Business program at the University of Waterloo, not certain as to which discipline I preferred: science or business. Four years later I graduated knowing that business was my passion. Having the tools that Science and Business had provided me I began my Co-op MBA at Wilfrid Laurier University. In 2009 I entered the MBA program not certain as to which discipline I preferred: finance,marketing,strategy,organizationalbehaviorandetc.Aftermyfirstco-opjobatMcCainFoodsasabusinessanalyst in global strategy, I became certain that strategy was my passion. It required problem solving and taking action; science and business. I continued into a second co-op at Sun Life Financial where I held a role in project management. This required organization and team work; science and business. Graduating in June of 2011 with my MBA in Strategic Management I was looking for the “perfect job”. Putting all the pieces of my past together I was certain that my career should be in marketing for a consumer packaged goods company. Why? It combines decision making and strategic planning with a product developed through science; science and business. Currently

I am an Assistant Brand Manager at Kellogg Canada.

Often we don’t know what the future holds but we are forced to make decisions that do change the course of our path. For me it was a matter of making a decision for what Iwantedatthetimeandlearningalongthewaytofindwhat I truly wanted for my career. Ultimately Science and Business proved to be invaluable in the MBA program due to the exposure it provides at the undergraduate level to business concepts. As well, Science and Business challenges its students to balance the demands of multiple disciplines, group projects, in-depth analysis and cases studies early on. These were the fundamental skills that allowed me success in an MBA program rooted in case work, analysis and group projects. The MBA provided me exposure to differentindustriesandrolesthatallowedmetofindmystrengths, develop my weaknesses into strengths, and to beconfidentinmydecisionmaking.Itopenedthedoorto opportunities complementing my previous studies and personal preferences. It allowed me to network with like minds which has proven invaluable from a career and personal perspective. If you asked me today would I recommend an MBA to any Science and Business graduate my answer is absolutely. Together the degrees are powerfulandopendoorsthatafirstyearsciencestudentwould have never thought of exploring. •

will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something—your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever—because believing that the dots will connect down the road will give you the confidence to follow your heart, even when it leads you off the well-worn path, and that will make all the difference.” (Steve Jobs)

linKing it BaCK to SCienCe and BuSineSS:

The Science and Business co-op program helped me evolve and grow as a university student, and certainly helped shapemycareer.IlovedlearningScience,asitsatisfiedmy intellectual curiosity and equipped me with tangible analytical and problem-solving skills. But over the course of my program, I realized that my desire for breadth over

depth would be best served in the business world. Now, as an aspiring entrepreneur, I am once again employing scientificprinciples,suchastestingbusiness hypotheses, making observations that may inspire new discoveries, and building from ‘failed experiments’.

IamconfidentthattheScience and Business path will serve you well too. I only challenge you to follow your heart, take risks, and make a difference! And of course, don’t forget to have fun!

“You don’t learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over.” (Richard Branson) •iFerriss, Timothy. The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live

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COVER: Peter Chen, Sharon Ng, Marice Yu, Jennifer Chang, Henry Hsu, Stacey Goldman, Ashley Linkletter, Jonathan Cluett

PUBLISHER: Science and Business Program, University of Waterloo. January 2012

CO-EDITOR: Kashif Memon, Science and Business Program Advisor and Coordinator, kmemon@uwaterloo.ca

CO-EDITOR AND LAYOUT PRODUCER: Sultanali Ladhani, Science and Business Project Manager, sladhani@uwaterloo.ca

PHOTOGRAPHY: New School Photography; Light Imaging

SPECIAL THANKS TO THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED THEIR STORIES AND IDEAS TO THIS YEAR’S PUBLICATION

scibus.ca, Issue 13