VIU Students at Beach

Future Students

A story of perseverance and hard work

Submitted by Jenn McGarrigle on May 30, 2023 - 12:18pm

As a first-generation university student, Teagan Howden felt lost when she first started in VIU’s Digital Media Studies program in 2018. Fast forward to today and she is gearing up for the next step on her journey towards becoming a corporate lawyer – a master’s degree. She shares highlights of her time at VIU and her best advice for current students.

Creating accessible computer science courses

Submitted by Rachel Stern on May 24, 2023 - 12:49pm

Everyone deserves equal access to education, yet barriers remain for some learners.

Amber Thomas ran into challenges when she wanted to take a computer science course at her university in Alberta. The accessibility tools available there would not work for her computer science course because it needed specialized tools. Amber is blind and uses a screen reader to complete her courses. 

Tips to write a focused statement of purpose

Submitted by Jenn McGarrigle on May 20, 2023 - 5:39pm

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic career? The statement of purpose (also called a letter of introduction or letter of intent, amongst other names) is a crucial part of the graduate school application process. This blog shares tips to help you write a focused and compelling statement that showcases your unique qualities and increases your chances of securing a spot at the grad school of your choice.

Gaining skills through getting involved

Submitted by Jenn McGarrigle on May 16, 2023 - 2:36pm

Fernando Jesus Medina Moreno’s university experience was so much more than what he learned in the classroom. The Bachelor of Business Administration student from Mexico City got involved in many different aspects of university life. Throughout these experiences, he picked up many important soft skills as well as the knowledge he gained from his courses. He graduates this June and hopes to work for a marketing agency on Vancouver Island. 

A community-based approach to post-secondary education

Submitted by Eric Zimmer on April 24, 2023 - 4:35pm

Preparing for your first year of university can be stressful. Choosing the right courses, fitting them into a schedule that works – it’s a lot. And the thought of being alone in a crowd of strangers in an unfamiliar place can be overwhelming. A new approach to learning at VIU’s Cowichan campus in Duncan is ready to help you not only manage but thrive in your post-secondary career. Here’s what it’s all about. 

10 reasons to study at Vancouver Island University

Submitted by Jenn McGarrigle on April 10, 2023 - 10:28am

Vancouver Island, on the west coast of Canada, is a hidden gem for students seeking a unique study experience. With a wide range of programming, breathtaking natural beauty and a thriving cultural scene nearby, Vancouver Island University is a sought-after destination for students worldwide. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider studying here.

Harnessing her people skills to engage alumni

Submitted by Jenn McGarrigle on March 9, 2023 - 4:53pm

Taryn Walker graduated from Vancouver Island University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Hospitality Management. After working in various positions in the hospitality and tourism industries, she is now VIU’s Alumni Relations Coordinator.

This blog series shares the stories of VIU alumni to help inspire the next generation of learners. In this blog, Taryn tells me more about her career path and what skills she has acquired over the years that have come in handy in other positions.