Faculty of Arts and Science undergrad student experiences a ‘life-changing’ summer internship in Jakarta
Charles-Étienne Sirois: “Anyone with an open mind and a willingness to grow should apply.”
When economics undergraduate student Charles-Étienne Sirois first heard about the Cansbridge Fellowship, he wasn't sure it was for him.
"I thought it was mainly for tech people or serial entrepreneurs," he shares. But after encouragement from his sister, a 2019 Cansbridge alumna, he decided to apply. And he says it ended up being one of the most transformative experiences of his life.
“We foster a culture of experimentation and innovation,” explains Pascale Sicotte, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science. “This takes various forms, and we encourage students to think creatively about how to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.”
The Cansbridge Fellowship offers Canadian students the chance to spend a summer in Asia, combining a startup mindset with leadership and cultural immersion. For Sirois, the program was an eye-opener, allowing him to push beyond his comfort zone and discover new perspectives.
‘I learned how to create a community for myself’
What inspired you to apply for the Cansbridge Fellowship?
Charles-Étienne Sirois: I’ve always been drawn to challenges that make me uncomfortable, and spending a summer across the ocean certainly gave me that feeling. Plus, my sister’s experience really shaped her career, so I figured I had nothing to lose by applying.
My passion for environmental economics didn’t seem like an obvious fit for the program at first, but it turned out that they look for passion, not just a specific career path.
How would you describe your experience?
CÉS: It was truly life-changing. I spent my summer in Jakarta, working at the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia. I contributed to research on digital innovation and sustainable economics. What stood out the most, though, was the community.
You meet so many brilliant people who are eager to support each other. It’s not about egos or showing off — it’s about building something together.
What did you gain from the program?
CÉS: One of the biggest things I learned was how to create a community for myself. Back home, I always had a strong network of friends and family. But in Jakarta, more than usual, I had to step out of my social silo and connect with people. That was hard but incredibly rewarding.
You also learn to navigate a wide range of emotions — everything from pure happiness to loneliness. It’s a powerful experience.
Who should apply to the Cansbridge Fellowship?
CÉS: Anyone with an open mind and a willingness to grow should apply. The program isn’t looking for perfection; they’re looking for authenticity. You don’t have to be a tech genius or an entrepreneur. You just need to be passionate about something and willing to take action. It's about who you are, not just what you do.
The Cansbridge Fellowship is a chance to broaden your horizons and join a global community of change-makers. Applications open October 1.
Find out more about Concordia’s Department of Economics.
