'Why I came to Concordia … from New Delhi'
"Why I came to Concordia" is a new series profiling international students. Check out the stories of students from Belize, the United Arab Emirates, and France!
Anza Khan relishes the freedom and independence Concordia and Montreal offer.
The second-year MBA student returned to university in 2017 to further develop her career in technology staffing and development. Khan chose Concordia for its global reputation and alumni network.
After graduation, she wants to specialize in strategic sales management and business development — but isn’t set on a particular industry just yet.
“That’s the beauty of the MBA program — everything is fair game,” Khan says.
Outside of the classroom, she juggles representing the John Molson School of Business (JMSB) in the Graduate Students Association (GSA) and leading the John Molson Women in Business Club (JMWBC). When Khan is not working, she likes to wander around the Old Port and the Atwater Market, two of her favourite city haunts.
‘I learn from my professors and from my peers’
Why did you choose Concordia?
I grew up in New Delhi and completed a bachelor of information technology. Afterwards, I worked for more than four years in technology staffing and development.
Studying abroad was always on my bucket list, particularly in North America where many of my clients were from. I chose Canada over the United States because, in general, Canadians are more welcoming to immigrants.
I wanted to advance my career and felt that an MBA degree was essential for my professional development.
What are your favourite things about Montreal?
I have met some amazing and inspiring people at Concordia. The sheer diversity of the faculty and student body is incredible. My classmates are musicians, actuaries and real estate managers who come from various parts of the world. I don’t just learn from my professors, but from my peers as well.
The most important thing for me is that I feel safe in Montreal. Living in Montreal has made me much more confident and independent.
The MBA program has also helped me to believe in myself. I learn something new every day and am made aware of strengths I did not know I even had. This has encouraged me to explore my leadership skills and to reach my full potential.
What are you involved in outside of class, and why?
Currently, I lead the JMWBC, which was set up more than 10 years ago at JMSB. The aim of the JMWBC is to cultivate a supportive community that promotes gender diversity in business. I am fortunate to work with an inspiring group of women. Over the past year, we have organized and attended several events that promote our mandate.
I also represent the JMSB in the GSA and was involved in this year’s Van Berkom-JMSB Case Competition organizing committee.
My involvement in these organizations has provided me with tremendous opportunities to build a strong professional network.
What are your top three pieces of advice for other international students?
- Be your own person. Do not be tempted to follow anyone else’s path. What worked for them might not work for you!
- Take the time to understand the differences in the education system and to find your rhythm.
- Build successful relationships.
Find out more about Concordia admissions for international students.
