Shifting mindsets: A business school inspiring students to think differently 

Already a successful entrepreneur, Nidhi, who is Co-founder and CEO of NidSun Wellness, has over a decade of experience merging health, wellness and business innovation.  One of the areas she found the most compelling about the program was the school’s diverse faculty. 

“Coming from an entrepreneurial background, courses like Entrepreneurial Finance, by Professor Richard Mackeller which featured guest lectures from lawyers and VCs, were invaluable,” she says. “The Creative Destruction Lab with Professor Darrell Kopke, was also particularly transformative, as it sharpened my ability to assess every aspect of a business and investment decision while actively engaging with real companies and their strategies. This hands-on exposure has been priceless.” 

UBC Sauder brings together some of the brightest minds to form its network of faculty — fostering an environment where ideas are constantly being turned into new ventures. It’s this combination of motivated, like-minded individuals, world-class resources, and a supportive academic structure that helps shape students — to challenge their thinking and try something new. 

“The faculty and their teaching methods are outstanding, bringing a dynamic and practical approach to learning,” adds Nidhi. “There are countless opportunities to connect with the local industry and UBC’s ecosystem, making it easy to integrate into a new environment and feel a strong sense of community.”  

Nidhi Mohan Kamal, MBA student at UBC Sauder

UBC Sauder offers a range of international learning and immersion opportunities which help to develop a global business mindset. 

Many of these global opportunities, which include projects, internships and mentorship opportunities, allow students to gain experience in real-world situations or simulations of a global workplace. 

“During the program, I completed a Global Immersion Experience Project with a client in Singapore, collaborating closely over two months and benefiting from the expertise of professors at Singapore Management University,” explains Nidhi. “Through the GNAM network — where UBC Sauder stands as the only Canadian member — I was privileged to be invited to Said Business School at the University of Oxford for a course in October.”   

Nidhi was  also enrolled in a  course at Yale School of Management, where she learned from renowned professors Edward A. Snyder and Logan Bender.   

“These experiences have broadened my perspective significantly and enhanced my skill set, both of which will be invaluable as I transition to supporting and investing in emerging startups.”  

Darren Dahl, Dean of UBC Sauder, is globally recognized for his work in strategic marketing, entrepreneurship, creativity and social influence.  

He believes that for meaningful change in business and in the world, universities need to shape leaders who are not only profit-driven but focused on societal impact too.  

The school’s vision is to inspire a generation of leaders who both think creatively and act responsibly, achieving positive impact in their workplaces and communities.  

“When we look at the major problems the world faces today — whether it's climate change, geopolitical issues, or the consequences of overconsumption - many of these challenges have been driven by businesses,” he says. “If businesses have played a role in creating these problems, they must also be central to solving them. Business schools are uniquely positioned to educate and inspire future leaders who will drive this change.”  

UBC Sauder is at the forefront of preparing students to adapt to the new realities of a globalized economy and to think ‘ahead of the curve’ so they have the resilience and agility to adapt to future change.  

“We aim to recruit the best and brightest individuals who genuinely care about making a positive difference in the world. Our approach is clear: we want students who are passionate about learning and committed to being a force for good,”  adds Dahl. 

Darren Dahl, Dean of UBC Sauder

In Nidhi’s experience, it was the warmth and proactive nature of UBC Sauder alumni —ranked the number one Canadian business program by Maclean’s — which stood out from the other schools she was researching.  

“They not only responded enthusiastically but went out of their way, even during my travels abroad, to connect with me and offer guidance and insights. This sense of community made me feel like I belonged, even before I arrived,” she says. 

Consistently voted among the most livable cities in the world, Vancouver offers stunning natural landscapes — from its incredible mountains to its stunning coastal scenery —  it’s a vibrant hub of world-class cuisine, culture and sport with a reputation for embracing diversity.  

Living in a world class city and innovation hub

“Canada offers a high quality of life and student experience, known for its peace, safety, and stunning natural beauty, especially in Vancouver,” says Nidhi.  “UBC Sauder delivers North American teaching standards, combining academic rigor with a practical approach that’s ideal for future entrepreneurs and problem-solvers. 

In addition to its location, UBC Sauder offers hands-on experience, where students learn how to connect the dots across business functions and build a strong toolkit for tackling real-world challenges.   

“The program’s focus on societal impact and sustainability also prepares you to make a positive difference in your future career,” adds Nidhi. “Studying here is truly a transformative experience, setting you up for both professional success and personal growth.”  

UBC Sauder looks beyond academic excellence to inspire a community which embraces innovation, social responsibility and responsible leadership. Studying at UBC Sauder prepares students to gain the skills and experience they need to think differently and, ultimately create a better world through positive impact on society and the broader community.