UBCSUO Student Leadership Awards
Brock McKillop
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Sounds cliché but this is how I learned my way around campus. A lot of things at university are what you make of it and if you don't know what is out there you will never be able to find out where you fit in it. Ask questions, try new things, and pursue your strengths.
What advice would you give to a first-year student on how to be more involved on campus?
Even when you are stressed to the max with multiple assignments and other commitments due there is always time for a chat with a friend. Your friends at university are your entire support network and without them, it becomes much harder to get through it all. Always set aside time to talk with your friends.
What lessons have you learned from your involvement on campus?
During my time at UBCO I tried to get involved with both the management faculty and student community as much as I could. To do this I joined the Management Student Association in the Innovation Council. Here I worked alongside other students in a small focus group designed to find ways to integrate 1st and 2nd year students with 3rd and above. We worked to form communication channels with other students. It was here that I met many upper year students who set me on my current path.
This year I was in-charge of running the Calgary Business Trip, an event where we bring 60 business students to Calgary over 4 days to visit various companies and partake in networking events. I was in-charge of all logistics, communication, applications, and finances for the trip. Through this, I mentored students and encourage them to step outside their comfort zones. This way, they gained clarity on potential career paths post grad and gain a greater understanding of how their degree can be applied.
As well, I competed on the JDC Finance team for 2 years. In this intense case study competition, we would be given 3 hours to analyze a business problem being faced by a company, craft a solution, formulate a PowerPoint, and present our findings in a 20-minute presentation.
Lastly, I volunteered my time with both organizations on campus helping with events and competitions, as well as charities in the Kelowna Community. One of them is HOPE outreach a centre dedicated to providing a safe space for homeless women. My time at UBCO has been incredibly busy but by staying involved in my community I have be come a better, more well-rounded individual.
Who is Brock McKillop?
Recognized for:
Outstanding role in Management Student Association (MSA), UBCO