Nicole Um

“Being part of an association, not only have I gained great leadership skills, time management skills and industry knowledge, I’ve also met amazing people and had so much fun!”

What led you to the John Molson School of Business?

I was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, and when I turned 14, I moved to British Columbia for high school, without my family, to a town called Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island.

After high school, I moved across Canada for a new challenge, to study chemical engineering at McGill University. I’ve always had a passion for chemistry, and I thought this program would reflect my interests. However, after a year and a half, I came to the realization that I was not enjoying the experience, and most importantly, I could not see myself pursuing chemical engineering as a career.

I began researching industry trends, well-known programs in Montreal-area schools and asked myself countless times, ‘where do my passions and interests lie’. I eventually stumbled on John Molson’s Business Technology Management (BTM) program, and after speaking with BTM alumni, I decided to give it a try, and here I am, grateful every single day that I decided to transfer.

How has the BTM program shaped your career path?

The BTM program prepares students to become well-rounded business professionals in an always-evolving world of technology. I am currently working as a Cyber Security Consultant at KPMG, which combines my interest in technology and cybersecurity. I feel that both the Business Technology Management Major and Computer Science Minor prepared me well for the career I want to pursue.

What was your case competition experience like?

Taking part in the digital strategy case competition was one of the best decisions I’ve made during my studies. As an international student who came to Canada at 14, it was a personal challenge for me to present the business solution in English, and what started out as a little challenge turned out to be so much more.

What are the advantages of joining a student association?

Being part of an association, not only have I gained great leadership skills, time management skills and industry knowledge, I’ve also met amazing people and had so much fun!

I joined the John Molson Business Technology and Supply Chain Association (JSBA) in my first year as a First-Year Representative to learn about the association and how it operates. The following year, I helped connect external industry partners to John Molson students as JSBA’s Vice-President of External Affairs.

This year, I’m the Co-President of the Association. My role is to guide the team in providing as many learning resources and career opportunities as possible to the student body.

Do you have any tips for new students?

Join the John Molson School of Business’ CASA Facebook page. It’s a great way to connect with other John Molson students and a good place to ask questions about courses or look for a group project team member. As a first-year student, the CASA Facebook page provided me with invaluable information and resources. Involvement opportunities are also announced there, so go ahead and join the community!