Laura Wettstein
Laura Wettstein recalls walking through Mount Royal University's East Gate entrance four years ago, short on life experience and full of enthusiasm.
That's why the Bachelor of Business Administration graduate wasted no time inking her name to volunteer lists around campus. The long-time Calgarian helped out with the Rotaract club, numerous student committees and Mount Royal's Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) club, of which she ultimately became president.
"Students spend so much time at the university and never get involved or create a connection with fellow students, professors and administrators," says Wettstein, speaking from the Middle East where she is quenching her thirst for travel before beginning her job-search and, she hopes, studying for a Master of Business Administration.
Wettstein believes knowledge and experience work well together. That's why she was so eager to get on the volunteer track while at Mount Royal.
"I wanted to have more than just credits when I graduated."
Wettstein is hopeful she can build a career that involves both her passion for travel and business.
While travel has always intrigued her, Wettstein credits faculty with helping her realize the world of business is so compelling.
Wettstein's two favourite memories from her time at Mount Royal both reflect those interests.
During the final round of the 2009 SIFE national championship competition, she played a key role driving one of Mount Royal SIFE's best results ever at the national stage.
"We were the smallest team in the final five. To present in front of the audience in a large auditorium - it was surreal to be up there exhibiting our work and our school in that big a forum."
Her other favourite memory came during an Alberta Dean's Case Competition.
"Being locked in a room for eight hours and then presenting our ideas was exhilarating. I know that makes me sound like a business geek, but it was a great feeling."
Wettstein is looking forward to Convocation and to returning to campus, a place where she made so many great memories and friends.
"Once I was a student with no focus. I feel that now I am a job candidate who would be a benefit to a company."
- Steven Noble