Amelia Vu: CIC Gives Me Opportunity to Discover Who I Am & What I Want

February 23, 2024  |  Development, Learning
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Huge congratulations to Diem Quynh Vu (Amelia), CIC ’24, on her exceptional acceptance offers from:

  • University of Toronto St. George – Rotman Commerce (Commerce)
  • University of Toronto Scarborough (Management & International Business)
  • University of Toronto Mississauga (Management & Business)
  • Brock University (International Dual Degree)
  • Toronto Metropolitan University (Business Management)
  • Western University (Management & Organizational Studies)
  • York University (Commerce)

Total Scholarship: CAD 159,100

CIC Is A Life-Changing Experience

Amelia reflects on how CIC has changed her future path in a significant way.

“When I left home at age sixteen, all I carried were some soft skills that my parents equipped me with, curiosity about this world and a fear deep down inside my soul.

Being a part of the Columbia International College community is a life-changing experience.

Before I came here, when I was in Vietnam, I had to learn thirteen subjects simultaneously, and my grades were low. It was a source of embarrassment for me and my parents. I was confused about my future, unsure which career to pursue, and felt lost in the darkness of peer pressure. My stress and anxiety grew day by day.

Everything changed when I had the opportunity to attend CIC and try something new: business courses. I’m grateful that I stepped out of my comfort zone and broadened my limits. The more I learned about the business world, the more fascinated I became. Finally, I found my dream career, which I thought had eluded me for so long.

The Impact of A Supportive Community

Amelia extends her heartfelt thanks to the people who have been pillars of support throughout her journey.

“CIC gives me the opportunity to discover who I am and what I want. At first, the prospect of moving across the world to a new environment was scary, but I was fortunate to have the support of my teachers, the CIC staff, and my friends to help me adapt to this new life.

I am grateful for my hardworking parents, who have brought my wildest dreams to life, and my sister, who is also a CIC student and has always been there for me. I am also thankful for my friends who have been with me every step of the way, creating cherished memories that I will always treasure.”

Tips and Tricks for Future Students

Amelia advises students to set short-term and long-term goals and stay on top of assignment deadlines. To ensure a good work-life balance, she strongly advises using their class time effectively, which, in turn, allows them to have more free time to relax.

“To all future students of CIC, I want to remind you never to let your mind deceive you into thinking that you are not capable of achieving your goals. Your thoughts are the ones that set boundaries between you and your success. However, if you eliminate these negative thoughts, nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and you will be able to accomplish anything you set your mind to and reach any destination you desire in life.”

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