Arora’s transformative experience in Edwards goes beyond the classroom

From the very beginning of Arora’s university journey, she recognized the importance of getting involved beyond academics. Hailing from Ahmedabad, India, Arora was raised in a Sikh-Punjabi family. In 2018, she moved to Saskatoon as an international student to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce degree, majoring in Human Resources, in the Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). She will officially graduate at USask Fall Convocation on Nov. 13.

For Arora, volunteering is a core principle. She embraces the motto of “service before self,” prioritizing the needs of her community over her own.

“I believe volunteering is a selfless act that keeps me grounded,” Arora said. “Exploring Indigenous culture has helped me reconnect with my foundational teachings and values.”

Her engagement at the USSU Women’s Centre became a pivotal point in her experience at USask. Here, Arora forged lasting friendships and developed a strong, outspoken personality, all while immersing herself in a community passionate about social change.

“There was so much space to get involved and be around like-minded people who were also driven toward social change,” Arora reflected.

This environment provided many opportunities for involvement and connection, creating a solid foundation for her future endeavours. Along the way, she received invaluable guidance from professors and mentors who shaped her academic and personal growth.

As Arora progressed through her studies, she expanded her involvement by joining the Indigenous Business Students Society (IBSS) and the Edwards Business Students’ Society (EBSS). In these roles, she focused particularly on diversity and inclusion initiatives, reflecting her commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all students.

Arora’s co-operative education placement at Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) further enhanced this experience, allowing her to work on Indigenous engagement projects that deepened her dedication to these important causes.

“I had incredible mentors during my co-op placement,” Arora said. “They had a significant impact on my personal development and showed me what a good work environment should be. They trusted me with big responsibilities and allowed me to work on projects that impacted the entire co-operative retailing system. When I returned to school, I felt much more confident, equipped with new skills and knowledge.”

This newfound confidence enriched her academic journey, especially in COMM 498: Natural Resource Management. The lessons she learned there deepened her passion for community engagement, particularly during the immersive five-day travel component that provided hands-on, land-based education.

“Engaging in experiential and land-based education was incredibly valuable for me,” Arora said. “It deepened my understanding of the industry and familiarized me with Indigenous economic practices.”

Beyond the classroom, a significant milestone in Arora’s extracurricular journey was the founding of the Edwards Queer Students’ Society (EQSS). This initiative emerged from a collective desire among queer students and allies at the Edwards School of Business to create a supportive community and a safe space for those who felt isolated. Arora and her friends established the EQSS, focusing on building a strong foundation to ensure its ongoing success and support for future students.

Arora’s commitment to community engagement has not gone unnoticed. She was honoured with the USSU Student Excellence Award for Equity and the RBC BreakOut Award, accolades that recognize her contributions and leadership within the university.

“I was happy, of course, but it felt strange to be recognized for achievements that are rooted in community. It was not just me; it was about the 100 people who supported me and collaborated with me,” she said. “It was an honour to be recognized alongside such talented individuals.”

As Arora begins her career, she is exploring opportunities while consulting for the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and Peter Ballantyne Group of Companies.

“My aim is to leverage my business education in roles focused on organizational strategy or economic development, ensuring that my work aligns with my personal values,” she said.

Reflecting on her journey at the Edwards School of Business, Arora emphasizes the importance of staying true to yourself.

“Staying true to yourself is so important, and it is crucial not to get too caught up in the system. As graduates, we should connect with each other and focus on shared goals,” Arora said. “It is our responsibility to change business practices to reflect our true values and honesty, even when that’s tough.”