Meet your valedictorians: Tejas Sawant
When Tejas Sawant arrived in Nanaimo to begin VIU’s Master of Business Administration program, he was looking for the right combination of academic fit and lifestyle.
“I was drawn to the beauty of Nanaimo and the lifestyle on Vancouver Island,” he says.
“When I looked for a program that aligned with my academic background and goals, VIU stood out as the best choice. I am so happy with my decision to pursue my MBA here. The experience has exceeded all my expectations.”
Graduating this June, Tejas will serve as class valedictorian at convocation, something he is “deeply honoured” by.
A highlight of his VIU experience is the day-to-day experiences with classmates and on campus.
“I valued the academic side of the program, but the simple moments really defined my experience,” he says.
“I loved the morning ritual of having coffee and cereal with my classmates at the students’ union breakfast bar. I also found fulfillment in collaborating with my peers on case presentations where we turned our different perspectives into a unified vision.”
Tejas also made a point of being actively involved in student life and hopes that he’s remembered by his peers as a “constant presence” on campus, whether he was participating, volunteering or organizing.
Along the way, he pushed himself into new and unfamiliar territory, including emceeing the BC MBA Games.
“Taking the stage for something I had never done before was a huge milestone for my personal growth,” he says. “I am proud of stepping out of my comfort zone.”
That willingness to challenge himself also translated to his experiences outside the classroom and away from campus.
“After a near-drowning incident, I faced my fear head-on by learning to swim at age 24,” he says. “It taught me that it’s never too late to conquer a challenge.”
As he looks ahead, Tejas is excited to continue building his career in digital marketing.
“I am grateful to be bouncing back into the career I love,” he says. “Having worked in digital marketing back home in India, I am excited to continue that journey here in Canada as an e-commerce specialist with Omnicom Group.”
For current and future students, he offers some advice: “Growth happens just outside of your comfort zone. Do not be afraid to say yes to new opportunities because those are the moments that truly shape you. Be present on campus and lean into the university community for support.”
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