For Queenie Zhang, business school has always been on the radar. Now in her first year, Beedie Luminary Queenie is settling into her Bachelor of Commerce program at UBC’s Sauder School of Business. Read more about Queenie below.
What program will you be taking in post-secondary and why does it interest you?
At UBC Sauder, I will be in the Bachelor of Commerce program. As of right now, I am unsure of what aspects of business I will be specializing in, although I am sure that with the variety of courses I am taking this year, I will get a sense of what my strengths and interests are in this field and be able to make a decision later on in my university years.
I chose this program because I have always loved personnel management and learning how organizations can work, or work even better. Having been in French Immersion throughout elementary and secondary school, I will also be working towards a minor in French to maintain and improve my language skills.
Tell us a little bit about your background (growing up, going to school, extra-curricular activities, etc.).
I grew up in Richmond, immigrated from China when I was four years old. My childhood was filled with music – starting with piano lessons, of course. Later on, I picked up the flute, and switched over to the trumpet. Through cadets and school band, I was able to develop my musicianship on the latter instrument and am now part of the 15th Field Military Reserves Band. With the Royal Canadian Air Cadet program, I was very fortunate to be awarded the Glider and Power Pilot Scholarships. With mentorship from senior members of the program, I successfully completed both the courses, and was able to develop other youth into pilots as well. It was very interesting to be able to fly a plane by myself before I even got my “N” driver’s licence!
I did a variety of sports growing up, but never focused on athletics as a priority. I was part of my high school’s volleyball, tennis, and swim teams, and trained in karate at a local dojo. Learning to swim as a child led me to a rewarding job as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Volunteerism and giving back are a huge part of my life. I look at all the programs and organizations that have shaped me into who I am today, and I see countless people who contributed selflessly and enthusiastically to the causes. I give service mostly to aquatics, day camps, soup kitchens, and choir accompaniment.
Who inspires you, and why?
It might be quite a common answer, but my mom inspires me every day with her drive, her intelligence, her kindness, and her selflessness.
What motivates you, and why?
The end goal of “being successful” does motivate me to work hard at school and in extracurriculars, but my main source of motivation is doing work that positively influences others. My friends and family also motivate and support me in all that I do, giving me an extra boost of motivation.
What are your goals for the upcoming school year?
This school year, my goals are to practice my trumpet every day, go to the gym three times a week, and sleep at least seven hours a night.
What is one thing you learned in high school that you will take with you to post-secondary?
I learned in high school that you need to surround yourself with people who will support you and work with you to reach your goals. It is 100% alright to cut people out of your life who may be overly negative or un-encouraging. Having genuine people in your life is crucial to lead a happy and fulfilling life.
What is one piece of advice you would give to future Luminaries?
Seize opportunities and you will not regret not having done so.
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