Governor General’s Academic Medal winners
Gold medal winner
RAGHAVKUMAR DEEPAKKUMAR THAKKAR
Graduate Raghavkumar Thakkar was honoured with the Governor General Academic Gold Medal. Raghav is a graduate from the Master of Science in Information Technology.
Raghav has worked in the software development industry for over eight years and, after earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, word-of-mouth about the excellent Master’s program at CUE enticed him to apply. Raghav is grateful that the MScIT program has given him the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in this field.
Despite the unexpected disruption caused by the pandemic, Raghav said he was impressed with the terrific learning environment for him while he studied machine learning from home in India.
“I appreciated the effort put into ensuring that the online classes were engaging and interactive, and that the professors were available and responsive to my questions and concerns,” – Raghav.
Raghav beams when speaking about Innovation Launchpad, a program that provides students with the resources, support, and mentorship they need to turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. Raghav thanks CUE faculty and staff for not only supporting his ideas, but also for connecting him with many industry experts.
Raghav says Innovation Launchpad provided handson, real-world experience to give him the confidence to pursue his entrepreneurial ambitions. His project “Intelligent Energy Calculator” was winner of the Most Interactive Presenter title at the Machine Learning Innovation Symposium last Fall.
Raghav says that his MScIT degree provided him with a competitive edge in the job market. Post-graduation Raghav is excited to say he has already found full-time employment as a software developer in Edmonton, and hopes to stay in the city where his family also resides.
In the future, Raghav said he hopes to work in the government sector as a solutions architect, designing and implementing technology solutions for government agencies.
His advice to students is to “apply for jobs and connect with industry from the day you first step foot in university. Industry is looking for graduates from CUE with specialized skills, so apply early so they can keep you in mind once you graduate.”
Silver medal winner
ALESHA JODY WORTHMANN
Graduate Alesha Worthmann was honoured with the Governor General Academic Silver Medal. Alesha is a graduate of the Bachelor of Arts program with a major in Psychology and a minor in Education.
Alesha felt that a background in psychology would be invaluable as she continues to pursue her career goal of becoming an elementary teacher. The knowledge she has gained allows her to cultivate the well-being of a diverse student body.
“I now feel better equipped to provide my students with the support they need to learn, grow, and ultimately realize their full potential,” – Alesha.
Alesha was drawn to the small class sizes at CUE, and having a personalized education experience. “Rather than sitting silently in a packed lecture hall, I was able to take part in class conversations that involved sharing ideas and life experiences,” Alesha explains.
She was able to form meaningful connections with peers and faculty at university and believes they will have a lasting impact on her life. “It was reassuring to know that if I needed support at any point, there was always someone I could turn to.” Alesha is excited to continue her academic journey here at CUE and will be returning in the Fall for a Bachelor of Education After Degree.
“I have always been passionate about working with children. Time spent volunteering within my community and working in recreation affirmed that this was the career path meant for me,” says Alesha.
Alesha’s advice for current students is to always have a goal in mind. “While the journey to graduation might feel long and difficult, setting goals throughout will motivate you to push through those stressful periods and help you keep things in perspective. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, you can achieve anything!”