Joey Bacauanu

Thornhill, Ontario, Canada
Full-time with Co-op
McMaster University (Kinesiology and Exercise Science)
Associate, Capital Markets, BMO
Class of 2022

I was surprised by how many students come from so many different backgrounds. You have a mix of arts, sciences, commerce, national, international students in your classes that you would never have a chance to meet anywhere else.

Why DeGroote?

DeGroote gave me, as a student, the opportunity to complete 3 co-op terms throughout the MBA program. These co-op terms provide students, like me with real work experiences where business fundamentals taught in the classroom can be applied in the real world.

Why an MBA?

An MBA provided me with fundamental business knowledge to be successful in today’s ever-changing work environment. Coming from a STEM background, I did not have much experience in finance, marketing, or accounting and wanted to build these skills to better apply myself in leadership positions. I knew an MBA was the next logical step in my educational journey to be able to apply my knowledge in the real world.

What surprised you about DeGroote?

I was surprised by how many like-minded people I would meet and ultimately become really good friends with. I was also surprised by how many students come from so many different backgrounds. You have a mix of arts, sciences, commerce, national, international students in your classes that you would never have a chance to meet anywhere else.

What piece of advice would you give to anyone considering doing their MBA at DeGroote?

Think about where you are and where you want to be and how the MBA can get you there.

What has been the highlight of your DeGroote experience so far?

MBA Games was one of my highlights of the DeGroote experience so far. Being able to meet students from all over Canada and compete in athletic and academic competitions was so much fun. I also really loved learning the dance DeGroote we put together last year. We killed it!

Aside from being an MBA Student Ambassador, what other extra-curricular activities have you been involved with while at DeGroote?

  • President, Human Capital Club
  • Cohort Representative
  • Competitor, MBA Games 2020

Tell us one fun fact about you!

I am a spin instructor!