Meet VIU's valedictorians for #VIUGrad2020

On Thursday and Friday (January 30 and 31, 2020), almost 400 VIU students will be crossing the stage at the Port Theatre to receive their degrees, diplomas and certificates. Here are the valedictorians who will be standing up to address their peers this week:

Alvin Anthony Meledath , Master of Business Administration (Thursday, January 30, 2:30 pm, ceremony)

Being in a classroom with students from more than 13 different nationalities has taught Meledath, from Mumbai, India, how important it is for us to embrace our differences. Highlights of his time here include having one of his papers make the top five in a national competition then presenting it to a panel of deputy ministers; representing VIU at the national MBA Games; and supporting students through the Peer Helper and Student Ambassador programs.

Alvin’s advice for  VIU students: “Be open and push yourself to be the best version of yourself. Vancouver Island University offers you a lot of opportunities to learn and grow. They provide you with good support systems to assist you through the journey. Never be afraid to ask for help, learn something new or stand up for what you believe in. University life is what you make of it, so make it count.”

Mahima Gupta, Bachelor of Business Administration (Friday, January 31, 10 am ceremony)

From India, Gupta is the first child in her family to study abroad. From earning a sales marketing competition trophy for selling donuts on campus, to supportive professors, to the many stairs at the Nanaimo campus, which she says either made life easier or harder depending on the day, Gupta has enjoyed her time at VIU. She plans to find a job in Canada and pursue her Chartered Financial Analyst designation.

Mahima’s advice for VIU students: “I know it’s sometimes hard to communicate, but there’s a universal gesture that needs no language - ‘smile.’ Every person here has their own story to share and so do you, so open yourself and cherish the experiences. The more you share, the more you grow.”

Manraj Manhas, Bachelor of Arts, Major in Sociology (Friday, January 31, 2:30 pm ceremony)

Manraj Manhas is proud to receive a degree from a university that genuinely cares about its students. Born and raised in Nanaimo, she was excited to continue to live in her hometown during her studies. While at VIU, Manhas cultivated strong relationships with her peers and professors, and achieved a true sense of belonging here. Her long-term goal is to become a lawyer.

Manraj’s advice for VIU students: “Appreciate the small class sizes, take advantage of every opportunity that comes to you, go to class AND DO YOUR READINGS! The professors care about you, so never forget to show them respect. Have fun and never stop learning!”