Grads from UTM master’s programs appreciate ‘extra layer of reward and gratitude’ as they receive latest degrees

For master’s degree recipients graduating from Institute for Management and Innovation (IMI) programs, crossing the stage at convocation isn’t necessarily a new experience, given that these grads have at least one degree under their belt.  

But that doesn’t make it any less special.  

“It feels similar to graduating from undergrad, but with an extra layer of reward and gratitude,” says Breanna Vasko, who graduated this spring from the MBiotech program with a master’s degree in biotechnology from IMI.  

“This milestone is reflective of everything I have learned and achieved during my time at school.” This degree builds on Vasko’s undergraduate studies in biological sciences, specializing in neuroscience, at the University of Windsor. For Vasko, graduating with the smaller MBiotech cohort felt like a group effort — “a 'we did it' moment." 

A highlight for Vasko — and a big reason why she chose the MBiotech program — was a year-long co-op placement that allowed her to explore the biopharma/biotech industry more deeply. “My co-op experience only confirmed this is where I want to be.” 

For Karl Zhang, “my whole academic journey at UTM is worth remembering as I had never been in Canada before.” Zhang earned a bachelor's degree in Hong Kong and certifications from French institutions before graduating this spring from the master of urban innovation (MUI) program. 

“I didn't attend my ceremony back in Hong Kong in 2018, and this time I got to experience what it feels like,” Zhang says of his convocation day. But it was a tight schedule – right after the ceremony at Convocation Hall this month, Zhang rushed to the airport for a business trip to Calgary as part of his new role with the Canadian Tourism Commission.

His immediate plans are to dive into projects for his job organizing business-related events for the tourism commission. “Our team travels a lot, so endless adventures await.”  

“It feels a little bit bittersweet,” says Seniyah Khan, who earned a master of science degree in sustainability management. Before her MScSM degree, Khan completed a bachelor of science in economics degree in her home country of Pakistan.  

“On one hand it’s incredibly rewarding that I got to graduate again, especially with a degree that very much aligns with my passion for sustainability. It’s an even greater sense of accomplishment because I pursued a degree in a new country, which is both challenging and enriching. 

“On the other hand, it’s bittersweet because I’ve been studying constantly for the past 20 years of my life almost and I now have to jump into the professional world.”  

Now she finds there’s an almost overwhelming world of options open to her. Like Vasko, Khan is feeling more confident with her latest degree. Khan’s internship at the Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority of Ontario helped her narrow down her interests: working in the circular economy to recycle and reuse existing materials as long as possible.  

But she’s open to all opportunities that await her. 

“I’m ready to do good anywhere.”  

More convocation coverage:

• Looking ahead and reflecting back with IMI grads
• Four new UTM grads share their memories
• Watch: video highlights from #UofTGrad24
• Photo highlights from spring 2024 convocation