When Safi Morisho completed her BCom at UVic’s Gustavson School of Business in 2025, she knew she wanted to jump right into the fast-paced world of international business by pursuing her Master of Global Business (MGB) – also delivered by Gustavson. Now 22, she hadn’t anticipated how profoundly the program would shape her beyond the classroom—affording her the opportunity to study business in Peru and Austria, immersing her in diverse cultures across three continents and transforming both her perspective and sense of self.
What moment stands out most from your time here?
Late night teamwork with friends! There were a few projects that kept us up until midnight, or 1:00 a.m., usually in the Clearihue Building. You’d have a presentation due the next day by 6:00 a.m. There were projects I needed help with and my friends supported me through that time.
Where did you spend most of your time studying, hanging out or unwinding on campus?
My friends and I spent a lot of time in the MGB lounge at Gustavson. It holds a special place in our hearts. Because we were in an international program, we ended up having the equivalent of that student lounge in different places around the world, including Austria and Peru. It was amazing.
Was there a course or instructor that had a positive impact on you?
Yes, but I can’t narrow it down to one! MGB: 519 International Logistics and Supply Chain Management was cool. Our professor, Adel Guitouni, opened our eyes to how things work; he challenged us. A class I took in negotiations, with Ignace Ng, also made an impact on me. We competed against friends for resources, so we were challenged with managing those relationships while also getting the job done.
What activity or experience outside of the classroom meant the most to you?
The friends I made while studying in Austria. Lena invited us out to her village in Ebensee. It was a magical place on a lake. She shared her family home with us, and we got to meet her parents and brother, which was amazing. We immersed ourselves in food and culture.
What would you tell someone who is considering choosing UVic for their degree?
I’d say be ready to grow in ways you didn’t expect. If you’re looking for the full post-secondary experience, not just academics, but friends, life-enriching experiences, great teachers and challenges that shape you—UVic is the place. You’ll be pushed outside your comfort zone, whether through your courses or new cultural experiences, and that’s where the learning happens. You’ll leave with a stronger sense of who you are.
What are your plans after graduation?
I was able to secure an internship at the end of my MGB with the federal government at Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt. My plans right now are to remain in public service. After that internship, I was able to secure another role and stay with National Defence. It’s a great environment and I’m learning a lot. One day, I’d love to continue my studies by pursuing a second master’s degree. During my time at UVic, I’ve been given opportunities to learn about myself and to continually improve myself.
How would you describe your time at UVIC in one word?
Kaizen.
It means continuous improvement in Japanese. It became so much of a central theme in BCom that it was incorporated into the curriculum.
