Heidy Sosa
Bogota, Colombia
Full-time with Co-op
Universidad Santo Tomas (Bachelor of Science, International Business)
Class of 2023
DeGroote made me feel welcome from day zero. From the virtual information sessions and in-person assistance at MBA fairs to becoming a student, I have always felt welcome, and that's thanks to its rooted sense of community. Also, the fact that it was part of Canada's top-ranked Business Schools and that it included three co-op terms reinforced my decision to select this program and school.
Why DeGroote?
DeGroote made me feel welcome from day zero. From the virtual information sessions and in-person assistance at MBA fairs to becoming a student, I have always felt welcome, and that’s thanks to its rooted sense of community. Also, the fact that it was part of Canada’s top-ranked Business Schools and that it included three co-op terms reinforced my decision to select this program and school.
Why an MBA?
I was for over eight years in the International Business sector; during my early working years, I also worked hard to complete my bachelor’s degree with a Cum Laude recognition, something that brought me joy and a promotion at my workplace. After three years, I realized it was time to leverage and build my business acumen by pursuing an MBA. Funny enough, I always wanted to study in Canada again (high-school exchange program during 10th grade), and DeGroote’s MBA checked all the boxes, a cohort of diverse professional and cultural backgrounds, co-op, etc.
What surprised you about DeGroote?
Do you know how our minds tend to go in circles about what-ifs when something new is in front of us? Well, I was clearly not the exception. When I started my MBA journey, I was nervous because of my English, accent, knowledge, competitiveness (in the wrong sense of the word) between students, etc. Fears were constantly invading me, but DeGroote’s MBA community has always surprised me by being always there, from students to professors and faculty staff; they have continuously listened and supported me in any possible way. That’s simply DeGroote’s distinctive culture!
What piece of advice would you give to anyone considering doing their MBA at DeGroote?
Doing an MBA can be intimidating, from doing the GMAT to completing each course, but let me tell you, if you set your mind on it, believe me, you can do it! You will undoubtedly face some hardships along the way, but any process/situation in life has them, so just take a leap of faith in yourself and be sure to enjoy the process!
What has been the highlight of your DeGroote experience so far?
Apart from getting to know really amazing people, winning the DataDockets Digital Marketing Challenge was a big highlight! My team and I had to make good use of our analytical skills and Power BI/Tableau software training thus far in the program. It was an incredible and rewarding experience for all of us.
Aside from being an MBA Student Ambassador, what other extra-curricular activities have you been involved with while at DeGroote?
- International Grad Navigator
- DeGroote MBA Ambassador Program
- Volunteered with McMaster’s Community Volunteer Circles
Tell us one fun fact about you!
I love Latin dancing, traveling and getting to know new cultures and cuisines.
