From India to Canada: My MBA journey

Anisha Das is in her final year of the MBA programme at Vancouver Island University. Originally from India, she completed a bachelor’s degree in media science from West Bengal University of Technology in Kolkata, India and moved to Canada in 2021 to begin her programme at Vancouver Island University. 
 
The MBA programme at Vancouver Island University piqued Anisha’s interest because of its vision toward diversity, equality, and equity, making it easy to envision her future there.  

The degree is allowing Anisha to not only receive a global business perspective, but also build on her previous six years of communications and marketing experience and contribute her personal experience of studying abroad as VIU International Marketing Intern and member of the VIU Positive Alliance Space that spreads the message of equality and diversity on campus.  

Anisha’s journey to graduate school was a self-described smooth one, despite navigating logistics of studying in another country amidst the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Her mentor in her home country supported her through the entire process, from visa applications to communicating with universities.  

A high IELTS score and detailed statement of purpose landed her acceptance letters from three Canadian universities. Anisha ultimately selected Vancouver Island University because of its holistic model and staff support during COVID-19 restrictions.  

Anisha plans to continue her career in marketing and communications following graduation and feels industry-ready thanks to the customised training and development she received in her programme.  

She is excited to continue her career in business strategy, leading social media and marketing campaigns, and making people laugh in her workplace.  
 
Her advice to future MBA candidates is to have an open mind, always be ready to help your classmates, and keep yourself constantly updated on the industry you wish to advance into.  

As someone who has succeeded in her MBA journey while studying abroad, Anisha says to be ready to unlearn and relearn everything while also embracing, enjoying and loving the culture you explore.