The only university to accept Yuserah Shahzeb’s non-traditional credentials became the place where she earned scholarships, maintained a 4.0 GPA and represented Memorial on the international stage.

Where are you from?

Originally from Pakistan, I lived in Malaysia and Singapore before moving to St. John’s, NL.

What do you like about St. John’s or Newfoundland and Labrador?

The simplicity, peace and slow rhythm of life. Here in Newfoundland and Labrador, joy is not just about the ‘hustle’ culture and making money, but about close connections with the friendliest people in Canada, the community spirit and the proximity to nature.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

Lots of time outdoors, exploring the breathtaking scenery Newfoundland has to offer and participating in community festivals and events.

Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?

I wanted to advance my career after a long gap, and an MBA degree seemed the best fit for me to enhance my managerial and leadership skills.

Why did you choose Memorial University for your graduate studies?

I chose Memorial, and Memorial chose me. It was the ONLY university I applied to that accepted my CA qualification, which the other universities refused because it wasn’t a standard undergrad 4-year degree with courses and credits. Memorial embraced the diversity in education that I had, and I knew I was attending Memorial the moment I got an acceptance.

How would you describe your experience as a graduate student at Memorial?

Fulfilling, rewarding and thriving. My experience at Memorial was nothing short of an illustrious, unforgettable journey. I met the most remarkable teachers, amazing peers like my classmates and volunteers and a systematic support system throughout the Faculty of Business Administration in the form of mentors, advisors and guest speakers.

What scholarships or awards have you received?

I have received:

The Dr. Alex Faseruk MBA Scholarship for Excellence in Service for the 2024-2025 scholarship year

The Imperial Tobacco Canada Limited Graduate Scholarship in Business Studies for the 2023/2024 scholarship year

The Atlantic Credit Unions Graduate Award in Business, for the 2023-2024 scholarship year.

Have you faced any challenges in life that you’ve overcome to pursue graduate studies?

Many. I was taking up studies after a gap of nearly eight years. I felt nervous doing so. I moved to St. John’s with my two kids in tow while my husband worked in another city. Managing kids, studies, learning my way around things, volunteering in the community and ensuring better grades was certainly difficult. I am grateful for being able to maintain a 4.0 CGPA throughout despite these challenges.

What industry or career path are you interested in pursuing after graduation?

I intend to pursue my CPA designation soon after and plan on working with one of the Big Four consulting firms in Canada after I graduate.

What advice would you give to current or future graduate students?

Never give up; nothing lasts forever, so the hard times too shall pass. Surround yourself with positive, like-minded people and stay away from those who instill fear and insecurities in your mind regarding acceptance, grades and jobs. Memorial has some excellent resources for mental health, student well-being and help with studies; make use of these resources. That’s what I did.

Anything else you would like to share?

I had the honour of representing Memorial’s Faculty of Business Administration this year at the John Molson MBA Case Competition 2025 held in Montreal by Concordia University. Team Memorial won 2nd Place among 30 participating universities from around the world. We beat universities like McGill, McMaster, the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary and many others. This win was particularly sweet because it came after some years (since 2017) and also because a lot of people did not know Memorial, St. John’s or even Newfoundland! The win taught us a lesson in humility and never underestimating oneself. Another milestone for me was a chance to emcee at this year’s “Partners” celebration held by the Faculty of Business. It was exhilarating to meet several social dignitaries and industry experts and the interaction I had with them will always stay with me.

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