It goes without saying that university students see the value of higher education, but more and more often graduates are looking at how to set themselves apart from the crowd; leadership skills and volunteering in the community are two ways to accomplish this and a group at Kwantlen Polytechnic University is doing just that.
AIESEC (pronounced I-sek) is the world's largest, entirely student-run, not-for-profit organization. It operates in over 110 countries and territories with over 60,000 members. The acronym originates from Association Internationale des Etudiants en Science Economiques et Commerciales, a name which no longer fits the scope of the organization that now encompasses more than just business students.
The group aims to empower young people by gaining leadership and experience through volunteering with a local chapter and the chance to participate in AIESEC exchange programs.
Partner countries include Brazil, China, India, Turkey and Ukraine. International exchange opportunities exist in teaching, and humanitarian projects, as well as information technology, micro-finance, and business. The program helps to diversify and expand students' world-views and create well-rounded individuals who will make a positive difference in society.
"I always thought that a leader was supposed to be the best at what ever the organization does. However, that's not the case; the leader's job is not to be the best, but to be the person who makes others the best they can be" says Steven Vu, Kwantlen business graduate. "This change in mindset has allowed me to not only reach my goals but have a positive impact on other people's lives".
Providing students the opportunity to develop skills and competencies that will differentiate them from others is a key benefit of AIESEC: leadership, management, strategic thinking and networking are all extremely valuable, but it is the tremendous personal growth that Steven Vu experienced that he feels has prepared him to face any challenge.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for more than 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts and science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 17,500 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.
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