Find a Mentor - Your Future View - Royal Roads University

Andrés Balseca

Student
Royal Roads University
Bachelor of Business Administration in Sustainability and International Business

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Alisha MacGregor

Account Executive
Bananatag
Bachelor of Business Administration in Sustainability and International Business

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My Royal Roads Story

Royal Roads University will make you stand out. They taught me more than anywhere else I have ever studied, because of the nature of the courses, culturally diverse student backgrounds, and small classroom sizes. My professors are now my mentors who gave me the confidence to succeed.

I just completed an internship at a multinational company, which was only possible through my RRU studies. Because of my learnings, I was able to apply it, plus gain experience as an international business and sustainability student in finance, sustainability, sales, and distribution relations. If you are willing to work hard, Royal Roads will take you out of your comfort zone. But, you will grow and leave feeling like you can take hold of the entire world.

Melody Warman

National Account Manager
CBS Outdoor Canada
Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management

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Tyson Knauf

Private Banker
Scotia Wealth Management
Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management

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Kelly Nicolson

Children's Education School Coordinator
Military Family Services / DND – Europe
Master of Business Administration in Executive Management

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Lloyd Loveday

Director
Thompson Rivers University
Master of Business Administration in Executive Management

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My Royal Roads Story

With a fantastic career path already, I knew there was more in me but something was holding me back. More education was key and I researched extensively discovering the most highly respected MBA in Canada. I began full of insecurities and discovered my (very impressive) fellow learners were too! But, they showed me I had the right stuff to be a leader in my own right. I found more in me than I ever realized. Now, I understand business, how to ask the right questions, and how to communicate effectively. Immediately, my RRU experience began to change my life. I was soon entrusted with even greater challenges. Now as Director at Thompson Rivers University, I foster future leaders across Canada every day.

Michael Morrison

Chief of Staff
Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt
Master of Business Administration in Executive Management

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Scott Ackerman

Director
Western Management Consultants
Master of Business Administration in Executive Management

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My Royal Roads Story

Now, I’m truly living the dream.

In 2005, I decided to reboot my career, converting my experience into a successful management consulting practice. I needed a school with a good reputation for brass tacks applied learning, a mature network, and my plan’s focus. Royal Roads was the answer.

Having a family and doing heavy business travel, I had valid time commitment concerns. You learn a lot about yourself in a program like this, how creative you are, and about listening to and learning from others. When there’s nothing left in the tank, you’ll surprise yourself the most. I finished with a renewed confidence and excitement about our future. Fast forward: I’m the Managing Director at Western Management Consultants, one of Canada’s oldest and most respected firms.

Gail Johnson Morris

President & CEO
LeaderLink
Master of Business Administration in Executive Management, Leadership Specialization

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My Royal Roads Story

I arrived at the first residency with trepidation. Was I good enough to succeed at RRU’s rigorous MBA program? Could I successfully balance conflicting priorities? I quickly discovered that RRU’s entire team was welcoming and supportive. New peer teams helped me navigate and scholar-practitioner lecturers drew from my business acumen. I enjoyed a personal transformation while completing my RRU MBA! I developed a deep well of unshakable confidence in my abilities to perform under pressure, to critically think, to analyze, and to synthesize. The capstone project resulted in a development and engagement plan for high-potential leaders, published in T+D magazine, February 2013. The exceptional RRU MBA experience seeded the aspiration for my doctorate in business administration. Can it get any better?

Malini Sengupta

Recruiter / HR Manager
Thinkingbox
Master of Global Management

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My Royal Roads Story

I began my professional career in the year 2000 after graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Calcutta University. After working as an HR professional for two years I realized that I needed a degree in HR Management to further my career aspirations. I decided to opt for an international educational exposure for which I chose to pursue a “Masters in Human Resource Management? from the University of Hertfordshire, UK. Upon completion of my degree in 2003, I worked for a couple of years in the UK, after which I returned to India in 2005. Over the next few years, I not only focused on various HR operations, but also managed projects for companies that operate globally. This entailed that I master strong communication and negotiation skills, client and account handling skills, and preparation of legal agreements in discussion with lawyers.

After 10 years of international work experience, I wanted to understand business from a macro and strategic view-point in order to move to the next level. I saw Royal Roads University’s Master of Global Management program as my closest ally. The Master of Global Management program helped me build upon my strong exposure to human resource management, superior analytical skills and technological know how, plus enhance my understanding of various specialized subfields, such as international business strategy, comparative management, and international business law. Most importantly, it helped me to get a job in the utility sector and equipped me with the skill to function effectively with individuals from different cultures, regions and ideologies. In doing so, Royal Roads University’s prestigious degree has taken a place of pride on my résumé forever.

Shirley Li

Marketing and Recruitment Officer
VGC Language School
Master of Global Management

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Sylwia Knapczyk

Property Administrator
Bonnefield Inc.
Master of Global Management

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My Royal Roads Story

This program was perfect for the knowledge and skills I needed. I focused on East Africa and developed a business plan. I traveled to East Africa to conduct R&D and collaborate with Mwika Mushroom Farmers on a Feasibility Analysis for a Mushroom Farming Cooperative in the Kilimanjaro Region. This was the cornerstone of a new career. I traveled to Dar es Salaam as a Local Economic Development Advisor to implement the Municipal Partners for Economic Development throughout Tanzania. What I endured in my program and East Africa helped me develop personally and professionally. The program prepared me for East Africa and a career in International Development. I habitually practice what I learned and feel I am one step closer to achieving my goals.

Julie Hood

Principle -Sustainability/Business Consulting and
JEH Consulting
Master of Arts in Environmental Practice and Graduate Certificate in Project Management

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Deb Kinvig

Senior Manager Forensic Psychiatric Hospital
BC Mental Health & Addictions Services
MA Leadership, Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching

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Sue Drinnan

Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness Consultant
The Wisdom Collective
Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching

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Danielle Towne

Recruitment Administrator
Studon Electric & Controls Inc.
Graduate Certificate in Strategic Human Resources Management

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My Royal Roads Story

I had several concerns as I submitted my Royal Roads application, including my capabilities, what other students would think of my level of work experience, and whether or not I would be able to manage the workload. Enrolling at RRU turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made in my career. Not only was I learning alongside incredibly intelligent, skilled, and genuinely kind people, I was being submerged in real-life learning, rich with experience and valuable lessons. I had everything to succeed, and it came from within myself. Royal Roads paved the way for a beautiful learning journey I am so thankful for. Since completion, I found my strengths as an HR professional, and I seize every opportunity to learn something new.

Janet Gilmore

Vice President, Corporate Services
Quinn Contracting Ltd.
Graduate Certificate in Strategic Human Resources Management

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Jason Finnerty

Owner/Director
Brandscaping Marketing Services
Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

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Max MacDonald

Freelance Contributing Editor
TOM Magazine
Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

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My Royal Roads Story

I started Royal Roads University knowing I was smart, I loved menswear, and I could write. I was working as a menswear editor but wanted to see how much farther I could go. From the get-go the support from all my professors was outstanding. The assignments weren’t easy but they allowed me to carve my own path, within the program. After two years traveling between Toronto to Victoria, “I don’t get this assignment at all”, Skype calls, Facebook wall posts to professors, and a couple A’s later I had my BA. I am now Founder of my own digital media publishing company. Thanks to three particular professors who did not stop believing I had “the stuff”. That is how Royal Roads has been life changing.

Sonia Lowe

Media Relations Officer
BC Provincial Government
Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

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Victor Hayes

PR Faculty
Humber and Seneca Colleges
Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communication

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My Royal Roads Story

Six Things NOT to Believe About You and Royal Roads University:

• You are NOT too old to go back to school. I was 61 when I applied and 63 when I was awarded my Masters.

• I simply don’t have the $30K. Banks have a special program for grad students enrolled in full time grad school (RRU programs meet the test), and my loan paid for itself in the first 18 months. Just being enrolled makes you more hire-able and promotable.

• You can’t take the time away from work for all the reading and writing. It is do-able. While working full time I gave 24 hours a week to the program – weekend days and two evenings a week. Do-able!

• You can’t write well enough to do post-grad projects. One of the first courses you will take in residence is a writing course that will show you how to write for grad school. Also I leaned on the Library which has amazing staff for help writing and researching.

• You don’t have your BA so why bother applying. In my class of 50 students at least a half dozen had no undergrad degree. Their letter of application was compelling and RRU made space for them because they brought something different to the table — professional and life experience — that no undergrad program can teach.

Fiona Burrows

Assistant Director of Community Relations
Simon Fraser University
Master of Arts in Professional Communication

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Tara Dong

Spryberry Creative Strategy
MA in Professional Communication

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My Royal Roads Story

RRU was life changing. Academically, but also professionally, personally, even spiritually. Shortly before graduation, I took the leap from a great corporate job to move into consulting and teaching in post secondary. My only regret is not having done it sooner. RRU gave me both the courage and the confidence to do so. RRU has transformed the caliber and quality of the work I tackle. In part because of the relationships forged with the MAPC 2013 cohort and professors. Isaac Newton once said: “If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants”. These men and women are my giants: friends, associates, champions, encouragers, confidants and advisors. RRU was the hardest thing I’ve ever done…and the best thing.

Heather Fontaine

Teacher
School District 35
Master of Arts in Learning and Technology

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Diane Janzen

President and CEO
Janzen & Associates Management Consulting
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership & Management

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My Royal Roads Story

I became a better person and leader. My unusual pathway involved moving from management consulting to the education field fairly late in my career. As Director of Education for Seabird Island Band I had a large portfolio and wanted to expand my practice in curriculum and instruction, research, assessment and community relations plus improve the result of higher educational outcomes. I worried: “Can you really teach an old dog new tricks?”. I discovered: “YES!” Through the surprising impact of reflective learning I discovered my great strengths and built critical skills in areas of community building, mentoring, and growing others. I gained expertise to mentor and support teachers much more effectively and, most surprisingly, developed a better ability to change my own practice for positive impacts others. I gained expertise to mentor and support teachers much more effectively and, most surprisingly, developed a better ability to change my own practice for positive impacts.

Jamie Lougheed

Executive Director of Advancement
Greenwood College
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership & Management

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Jeremy MacIver

Vice Principal, & Inclusion Education Coach
TA Norris Middle School
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership & Management

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My Royal Roads Story

As a teacher who quickly moved into a school leadership position, I knew I needed a sound professional learning base in order to move forward. I chose RRU to provide some of the answers to the larger educational questions I had been pondering and the RRU model (blended learning) was a perfect fit for my needs. RRU went above all of my expectations; however, this was due to taking an active part in my own education. I was able to reach out to other cohort members and to RRU staff to discuss ideas, theories, and my own personal learning journey. RRU helped shape my entire outlook on the educational system, from building school culture, data based decision making, stakeholder partnerships, and mostly, supporting student learning.

Steven Parfeniuk

Vice President of Finance and Administration
Sheridan College
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership & Management

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Steve Malins

Cultural Resource Management Advisor
Parks Canada
Master of Arts in Environment and Management

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My Royal Roads Story

It was powerful sharing my experience with fellow students who brought their own incredible backgrounds to discussions. It was extremely rewarding learning the value in mastering skills in collaboration, reflection, challenging my own thinking and being victorious over graduate studies mid-career. Unlike undergrad years when my only focus was school, clearly there was more going on now. The instructors were inspiring and very supportive-to the point that I surprised myself. I found I *could* balance my studies with marriage, work (including a new $13M project), and even handle life (cancer surgery). During the program I was able to immediately apply what I was learning, and new friendships still remain (we just went camping with fellow alumni). I would highly recommend an RRU journey to others.

Volker Seidel

VP and Director
Earthsave Canada
Master of Arts in Environment and Management

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Adam Norris

Watershed Coordinator
Mighty Peace Watershed Alliance
Master of Science in Environment and Management

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Troy Clarke

Child Protection/Social Worker
Government of Nunavut
Bachelor of Justice Studies

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Will Koltai

Complaints Analyst
National Defence and Canadian Forces Ombudsman
Bachelor of Justice Studies

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My Royal Roads Story

Dear future learner,

In fall 2006, I enrolled at RRU with the intent of testing the waters for legal study, with the hopes of pursuing a career in entertainment law.

During an intense year, a fantastic cohort, helped me discover that Justice is about how society weighs in its values; how we live, conflict and seek resolution together.

I moved to Ottawa in early 2008, to work as the Jazz Festival Artist Liaison and Contract administrator. I am currently employed as complaints analyst in early resolution with the National Defence and Canadian Forces Ombudsman since October 2011.

The BJus program allowed me to explore the legal field and enabled my discovery of other possibilities. I took the opportunity and ran with it!

Mark Hyslop

Senior Advisor
University of Calgary
Master of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Management

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Sam Jaroudi

Officer in Charge
Government of Canada
Master of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Management

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My Royal Roads Story

I had major questions going into MACAM: How would I balance school with work and family? How would I fare in comparison to others? And what are the benefits of this degree? I soon realized that the answers lie in how I’d define my own expectations and approach. Every interaction is a learning opportunity and you need to see the forest for the trees. I also realized that MACAM is a collective experience as much as it is individual. You establish lifelong friendships that enhance your learning experience, and together create a support system to move the cohort forward. Yet simultaneously, MACAM presents you with unlimited space for self-reflection and the development of critical thinking, self-awareness and the recognition/appreciation of different perspectives. Just “Go Red”!

Stephen Sandiford-Hinds

Senior Human Resources Leadership Professional
McMillan LLP, BCIT
Master of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Management

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My Royal Roads Story

I completed an MA and I hadn’t been in school for 20 years so was slightly apprehensive about the experience. The experience was both challenging and rewarding. The work was difficult at times and the MRP process was hard as you are left alone with the assistance of an advisor that is not in your city so email and the occasional phone call had to suffice. That experience was a test to the resilience of myself as a learner….luckily, I proved that I had some resilience and successfully made it through! :-). The decision to do this program should not be taken lightly because the amount of work that is predicted (20-30 hours per week) is not an over estimation. You really feel that time pressure when you have a full time job. The affect the experience had on my life is that it has increased my critical thinking skills and gave me more confidence to execute on things I put my mind to.

Cathy Munford

Infection Prevention and Control Practitioner
Vancouver Island Health Authority
Master of Arts in Disaster and Emergency Management

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My Royal Roads Story

As a nurse, I worked as an Infection Prevention and Control Practitioner (IPCP) for more than 20 years. It covered a number of small and large outbreaks, assisting with the writing of the hand hygiene and routine practices and additional precautions for health care settings for the Public Health Agency of Canada, and was President of the National Association (IPAC- Canada) during the H1N1 pandemic. With the changes in my role at the facility, clearly I needed a new challenge. After attending a Royal Roads information session with a friend, I discovered my background fit perfectly with my RRU program. I’m glad I pursued this degree and plan to couple it with my IPCP background to work with government on preparation for biological disasters.

Kenneth Gisborne

Trusted Advisor & Senior Consultant
3Si Risk Strategies Inc.
Master of Arts in Disaster and Emergency Management

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My Royal Roads Story

I enrolled in the MA DEM program when I was in my mid-50’s. I had already achieved most of my life goals related to career activities, but my academic goals had been put aside to deal with life’s other priorities. It was finally time to attend to the experience of being involved in an effort of higher academic learning and critical thinking. The experience at Royal Roads completely met and exceeded my expectations. Not only did it fulfill my goals, it gave me so much more. The enriching experience of working closely with a cohort and faculty over several years will always remain with me. The additional side effect at my stage in life is that it also provided a more rounded perspective in my work life and helped me to apply new research rigor in my other project activities.

Amanda Barros

Business Continuity Program Lead
Government of Alberta
Master of Arts in Disaster and Emergency Management

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My Royal Roads Story

Working with vulnerable populations, I realized they are unconnected to the emergency response world. I started asking: What do we do to help ESL evacuees? What supports does someone with Alzheimers have in an evacuation center? Would a first responder recognize an autistic child? Two years later (and two babies later!) I knew I made the right decision. The course work was challenging, but my cohort was comprised of amazing individuals, adding depth to our learning lens. After graduating, I started my first emergency management position, now in planning, applying my education and skills. In the Alberta flooding, I worked with evacuees both in reception centers and in returning to rebuild ‘home’. I couldn’t have done it without Royal Roads.

Marsha Lake

Consultant
Eyre & Associates
Human Security and Peacebuilding

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Russ Pierozinski

Associate Chair
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
Master of Arts in Leadership

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My Royal Roads Story

After countless visits to RRU’s website, I applied. Although certain about working full time and handling 25 to 30 weekly study hours, I still had concerns about the rigor. In the first residency (week 1), my concerns dissolved through great support and encouragement from faculty. I brought substantial business experience in strategic planning and execution. RRU broadened and deepened my view of organizational life: “organizations are collections of human beings, not collections of human resources that you hire and fire” (1). Leading is an affair of the head and the heart. This journey made me a better professional leader, a more informed citizen, and most importantly, a better father. My regret? I did not do it sooner. Truly: life changing.
(1) Dr. Henry Mintzber

Donna Biddell

Improvement Facilitator
Alberta Health Services
Master of Arts in Leadership- Health

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My Royal Roads Story

Returning to the conventional workforce, RRU provided the perfect platform to work full time while earning another degree. Focused on raising my family, I was concerned about adjusting to online learning and being a fully-contributing member of the learning community. The first residency wiped that away. I discovered I truly belonged and had just as much to contribute. The program reignited my passion for human processes and inspired me to look beyond. I re-entered with confidence, enthusiasm, curiosity, and a renewed interest in working on the system of healthcare. I approach the world much differently: more insight about how my leadership can influence others. My decisions and actions are based in “trusting the process” and RRU helped prepare me for that!

Jake Lynch

Front Desk Manager
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
BA International Hotel Management

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My Royal Roads Story

Through Royal Roads, I was hoping to obtain an advanced Hotel Management Degree that would enable me to move into the next phase of my career, as well as an exceptional education in a stimulating environment. I didn’t have too many concerns, although the move was definitely a risk. I learned that I had a strong work ethic and focus, was able to effectively manage my time through a dynamic schedule, and was able to meet both deadlines and expectations as well as maintain relationships under these conditions. The program also showed me that I was strong as an academic writer, and significantly improved my existing writing skills. Lastly, I learned that I was very intellectually curious and thrived with the guidance of several Professors. The program definitely enabled me to move into the next phase of my career and has helped me to thrive in an environment that is equally (if not more) dynamic, fast paced, results based, and demanding, that of the academic environment at RRU. It has also helped my ability as a Leader of a team of Leaders. The program also taught me to think more deeply and critically about the world around me.

Victoria Port CMP

Contract & Booking Adminstrator
Exhibition Place
BA International Hotel Management

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My Royal Roads Story

Making the choice to attend Royal Roads University will be the best decision you will ever make. The smaller classroom sizes, diversity of the student’s backgrounds along with the industry experienced Professors guarantees the best learning environment possible for fast tracking your career. Royal Roads University provided me with the knowledge and expertise required for success. Allowing me to identify my weaknesses and further expand up on my strengths with the hands on design of all their courses. Immediately after completing my internship in the Yukon, I was able to fast-track my career to where I am today. In a few short years I have managed to obtain my Certified Meeting Professional designation along with being a part of team responsible for securing a few major City of Toronto Events: g20 Leaders Summit, 2015 Pan Am Games and NBA 2016 Jam Session.
If you are willing to put in the hard work, Royal Roads will provide you with the tools to achieve the professional career you want along with lasting memories and friendships.

Frank Creasey

CEO
Fort McMurray Tourism Ltd.
MA Tourism Management

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My Royal Roads Story

After working for hotels, a RRU – B.Comm, awesome positions with South Korea at the NTO level and locally for a Northern Alberta RTO, it was time to get a degree in my field – tourism! Being in the industry for well over two decades, I wanted to make sure that the Masters level education would stand up to the ever changing global industry and strongly compliment my current career trajectory. After researching every tourism related degree around the world I settled on the RRU-MATM. It was a combination of the caliber of core/key faculty to keep me engaged, the convenience in both geographical location combined with language, the modular format, outcomes base, which would serve to attract a really diverse and wide-ranging learning body. It is remarkable what the end result turned out to be – not only a degree which is gaining is status every year. A strengthening of my critical thinking skills, the mutual respect to be able to tap into very high level thinkers across a range of experience levels and cultural backgrounds. Finally, the knowledge that we as graduates will be leaders in some capacity that will impact regions, destinations and as tourism is apt to do…impact lives around the world….who wouldn’t want to be part of this….

Willy Aroca

Adjunct Professor - International School of Hospitality and Tourism
Fairleigh Dickinson University
MA Tourism Management

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My Royal Roads Story

I decided to pursue a Masters degree to increase my knowledge in strategic models of implementation and enhance my career in the hospitality and tourism industries. At first, I had reservations about the Royal Roads curriculum because I had been outside of the academic world for some time. However, I hoped that my work experience and industry knowledge would contribute to the content of the program. Understanding that MA students with similar backgrounds would need assistance during this new transition; Royal Roads and its faculty understood the challenges and were prepared to assist me and others with the requirements needed at the Masters level.

Through the process, I discovered a renewed passion for learning from faculty and industry leaders and my Masters degree has led me on a new personal path in the field of education. In addition, I have stayed in touch with my Royal Roads colleagues and these relationships have enriched the academic experience.

Heather Knowles

Promotion & Non-Personal Media Officer
Parks Canada
MA Tourism Management

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Lara Rooke

Senior Program Advisor, International Visits and Protocol
Government of Canada, Health Portfolio
MA Interdisciplinary Studies

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Alison Harle

Director/Instructor
RockyPoint Outdoor Education
MA Interdisciplinary Studies

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Deb Linehan

Regional Vice President
RBC
Doctor of Social Sciences

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Jon Jaekel

Clinical Educator - Emergency Medical Services
Alberta Health Services
MA Interdisciplinary Studies

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My Royal Roads Story

As I look back and reflect on my experience studying Interdisciplinary Studies at Royal Roads University, let me share some thoughts and feelings. While there, I hoped to challenge myself to become a better writer, and for a career advancing parchment. I feared writing academically, time commitments, criticism, and failure. I found that there was support, a sense of community, confidence, and a connection to a beautiful, vibrant campus with a gorgeous castle. I had a life changing experience as I now see and interact with the world differently today than I had before. This is difficult to define, however the essence is I am more thoughtful, and I think in larger systems rather than individual issues. Royal Roads University is now a part of my story and I am proud to be a part of theirs.

Jessica Hadjis

Founding & Managing Partner
PATHFINDER
MA Interdisciplinary Studies

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Kristin Williams

President & CEO
Junior Achievement Nova Scotia
MA Interdisciplinary Studies

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Tracy Steere

Coordinator
Fraser Health, Aboriginal Healthy Living
MA Interdisciplinary Studies, Project Management & Sustainable Community Development

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My Royal Roads Story

When I started my first course through RRU I was very nervous. I had limited university experience and the prospect of going to class with a group of well educated people was overwhelming. I was pleasantly surprised with the mark on my first assignment and as the course progressed I learned that as long as I dug in and did the work, a successful outcome was inevitable. Professionally, the program has provided me with tools to apply more efficient project management skills and include activities that not only showcase health services in the community but also foster social connections among community members. Personally, some of the courses in community development have left me with a stronger sense of the essential need for each and every one of us to create daily habits that protect our environment.

Andrew Young

Teacher
Georges P. Vanier Secondary School
Master of Arts in Environmental Education and Communication

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My Royal Roads Story

At mid-career, I pushed myself forward in a search for environmental research to help my classes. I wanted a credible university that was flexible with its delivery while I kept working. My work at Vanier Secondary and UBC is profoundly impacted by my RRU Masters degree; I am better prepared for a 21st century classroom. Personally, RRU challenged me, and I gained enormous confidence, accomplishing: a chapter in a social studies methods textbook and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society’s Innovation in Teaching Geography Award. The biggest impacts were self-reflection and identity development. I am a better learner, teacher, and person. I tapped into deep core values and made decisions about the person I wanted to be, making changes that stick with me to this day.

Michael Lickers

Sr. Advisor Aboriginal Community Development
Suncor Energy
Doctor of Social Sciences

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My Royal Roads Story

I am a teacher of Aboriginal issues, and work in Indigenous communities around the globe sharing our program and key philosophies. My current work involves the education of Indigenous youth leaders. The Doctorate program at Royal Roads University allows students to actively employ what they are learning in their workplace. My studies will allow Indigenous youth to have a dynamic voice in what leadership is to them, how they recognize leadership from an Indigenous perspective and what characteristics construct a prodigious Indigenous youth leader. Faculty here are generously supportive and extremely knowledgeable of contemporary global requirements in today’s world and to the nature of Interdisciplinary programming. They are willing and competent to guide, and challenge you to contemplate outside of what you muse. This university is like no other and offers the opportunity to “live your learning”, actively put into practice what you are learning and that simple fact has continued to engage me on a path of lifelong learning and being a part of Royal Roads University Alumni and as a continuing student.

Tina Brillantes

Community Developer
The City of Calgary, Community & Neighbourhood Services
Master of Arts in Leadership

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My Royal Roads Story

I was tired, confused and scared, filled with self doubt and fear of rejection. With senior management background, how could this be? I soon learned title and status isn’t leadership, but actually a way of ‘being’. On a daily basis, I use the wise words of my RRU mentors and coaches. After incredible grad celebrations, I traveled extensively for 18 months. Solo. My RRU school mates and mentors gave me the courage to endure. Now? Trusting the process, I walk through the door with confidence and calm excitement. I value close relationships more than ever, I am a listener and teacher, and a connector. I have a true sense of community and respect for people. I AM a leader, without a title. I am CHANGED.

Cathy Thicke

Councillor
District of Tofino
MA Tourism Management

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Nicol Suhr

Principal
Lucerne Elementary Secondary School & Arrow Lakes Distributed Learning School
Master of Arts in Environmental Education and Communication

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Kathryn Thompson

Director of Communications and Outreach
Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation
Master of Arts in Professional Communication

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My Royal Roads Story

My RRU experience has far exceeded any of my expectations. It has unleashed my innovative and creative side by giving me the confidence to pursue documentary photography. The MAPC program has provided me with the foundation necessary to become a great facilitator, storyteller and visual communicator. Since completing my thesis, I have been accepted to exhibit my photography in a local art gallery in Saskatoon, and I was recently published in Dodho Magazine, a free independent magazine and publishing house based in Barcelona. I am also extremely honoured to be the recipient of the Chancellor’s Award and one of the recipients of the Public Ethnography Award. The MAPC program and the Royal Roads experience is truly life changing.

Lindsay McPherson

Fire Communications Officer
Parks Canada
BA, Professional Communication

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My Royal Roads Story

RRU gave me the skills needed to find employment in my degree field, and the online learning delivery model gave me an advantage in the workplace. I currently work in a field unit spread over three national parks. The skills I acquired while in RRU’s online degree program have complemented this through: enabling me to time manage for independent work, contribute to group projects, use social media and various online communications platforms (synchroNous, asynchroNous & hybrid), apply critical thinking and creative problem solving to solutions, and foster respect and understanding for my coworkers. I was able to start my career with Parks Canada while still in school, a huge bonus and testament to the flexibility of the online delivery model.

Chirag Khasia

Managing Director & Business Consultant
Taktik Consulting
Master of Global Management

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Trevor Heryet

Principle -Sustainability/Business Consulting and
JEH Consulting
Master of Arts in Leadership

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Tanya Laing

Communications & Grants Coordinator
City of Vernon
MA in Professional Communication

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Peter Radke

Entrepreneur
Construction Management and Options Trader
Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management

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David Veres

Associate Vice President, Academic & Learner Services
Niagara College Canada
MA in Leadership

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Yenny Mosquera

Outreach Director
PMI Vancouver Island Chapter
Master of Global Management

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My Royal Roads Story

One of the most rewarding experiences for me as a woman and as a professional! I was challenged to push the boundaries of my knowledge and test my perceptions of leadership, diversity and team work. I was exposed to brilliant individuals who offered a wealth of experience and different ethnic and educational backgrounds. Staff and faculty were incredible, many of whom have become part of my network and close friends. Now working in project managing for a world-leading technology organization, I feel more confident when engaging with partners and teams from all over the world. Looking at an increasingly diverse workforce and the globalization of business, I improved my technical expertise, and strengthened my cultural competencies – one of the biggest takeaways.

Susie Myers

Administrator
Early Childhood Education
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Management

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My Royal Roads Story

My journey at Royal Roads University has been life changing! As a seasoned early childhood educator I had many hopes as I embarked upon my masters studies: academic growth, curiosity, and personal development. I came away with so much more. The courses expanded my learning, created new connections, and it kept my cup full. My experiences were empowering, enlightening, and magical. I found a renewed sense of energy and passion. Best of all was a wonderful cohort of people and RRU instructors to draw upon. The blended learning model was a good fit, so much so, that I am furthering my studies in the Doctor of Social Sciences program. I wish you all the best in pursuing your studies and following your passion.

Michaela Davies

Communications
St. Paul's Hospital Foundation
Master of Arts in Professional Communications

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My Royal Roads Story

Studying at Royal Roads was the perfect fit for me. With professors who are encouraging for innovative and creative ways to create projects and present data, I found that my education at RRU fostered a new sense of fearlessness when approaching academic and professional work. The MAPC program has provided me with the skills necessary to become an effective communications strategist, a confident storyteller, and an asset to any organization. Since completing my final research project, I have started a non-profit creative writing school for underprivileged youth as well as created a mentorship organization for young women seeking career guidance. I am very thankful for my time at RRU and for the lifelong friends I met in my cohort.

Debra Kasowski, BScN CEC

Manager
Health Industry and Certified Executive Coach and Leadership Development
Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching

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My Royal Roads Story

Life-changing is an understatement – it was amazing! I had been coaching prior to entering the certification program. I came to RRU to gain the certificate and credibility I felt the public was looking for. I received my certificate and so much more. I thought I asked powerful questions before but now I am able to zero in on asking questions that challenge assumptions and shift perspectives on a whole new level. I have deepened my systems thinking and expanded my network of colleagues. I learned how to “Trust the Process” that I felt I had so much control over and “Detached from the Outcomes”. I have pursued further training into Emotional Intelligence and Appreciative Inquiry that have also complemented my coaching practice.

James Grieve

Mentor to Entrepreneurs
Futurpreneur Canada
MBA in Executive Management

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My Royal Roads Story

Pursuing higher learning at Royal Roads was one of my best life decisions, and the results have been transformational. The practical and robust curriculum, coupled with the personal and professional networks that I have developed have given me the confidence and competence to see the world differently, take calculated risks, and challenge myself and others to experiment with new ideas. Royal Roads invigorated my passion for lifelong learning and has enabled me to pursue my dream of being a successful management consultant and owner of a strategic marketing firm.

Best of all, my Royal Roads experience has given me the knowledge, tools and expertise to mentor and teach others to in my community to start new businesses and become better leaders. Sharing what I have learned, inspiring others, and knowing that I can create a meaningful legacy of leaving each day better than I found it is both gratifying and rewarding.

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