JANE ANGELOU'S PORTFOLIO

About Me

My name is Jane Angelou and I am a first year Bachelor of Business Administration Marketing Management student. Prior to starting my academic career at Sheridan, I attended St. Marcellinius Secondary School where I was the president of the DECA club and debating team. I have always been interested in sustainable and innovative ideas that improve the quality of human life which informs a lot of my interest and hobbies. This is because I grew up in developing countries where poverty affected a lot of my loved ones and I have taken it personally to alleviate their misery through innovation. In my spare time, I volunteer at the Mississauga food bank because I vowed from young age to never forget those who are less fortunate and to always give back to the community. I also work as a freelance photographer for local organizations in the Greater Toronto Area.  A unique fact about me is that I speak four languages and have travelled to 15 countries. 

​

I grew up in three different continents - Africa, Asia and America - and travelled a lot in my childhood because of my parents’ occupations. There were many perks that came with our periodic moves and travel like learning new languages or immersing ourselves into a new culture. One of the places that really inspired me was Singapore because of its diverse cultures that live together in harmony and the way the country transformed from an underdeveloped to a developed nation.   

I used to resent the constant move because I never felt settled or had one place to call “home”. However, as I’m getting older I’m starting to value my diverse experiences that have given me an international perspective and an appreciation to that which is unique and different. It taught me the importance of being open and adaptable to change. Being a third culture kid ( a term used to describe children who grew up outside of their parents and grandparents culture) allows me to relate to and connect with people from different parts of the world and to have a growing network of young professionals globally. This is important for me because I envision an international career for myself and having that network will help me work with future leaders from around the world. 

​

Why Sheridan?

I chose Sheridan because of its commitment to creativity and innovation, smaller classrooms settings which would allow me to establish rapport with my professors and classmates, and for its mandatory internship program that set it apart from other universities.  The difficult decision for me was not which college or university to attend but whether or not to pursue a business program. The past few years I was either interested in chemistry or social sciences and humanities but I was not convinced to commit four years to a Bachelors of Arts/Science degree because such programs are too rigid for my interdisciplinary interests.

I struggled to find a program that will provide me with an enriching experience with practical skills and competencies that will help me transition into the workforce post-graduation. However, after talking to my mentor and conducting some research, I began to entertain the idea of a business program, particularly in marketing management. I feel that the marketing program is a good mixture of business and innovation where there is room to be a creative corporate comrade! I look forward to coming up with creative marketing strategies and creating materials that raise awareness about poverty or other social issues and to convert my fellow classmates into social innovators.  

I am excited to embark on my business journey and I believe that my international perspective, creative juices, ability to think critically and steadfast perseverance will help me be successful at Sheridan.

​

My Inspirations

The most inspiring teacher I ever had, Mr. Van Kesteren, taught me philosophy and world issues. He was a charismatic teacher who sought to push me beyond my limits, but most importantly, he always listened and valued my opinion. Mr. Van Kesteren is a fair teacher who created a safe space for all his students to feel welcomed and empowered to discuss issues, challenge preconceived ideas and dare to learn. As a high school student I often felt uninspired in classrooms because most of my teachers were not engaging. Mr. Van Kesteren’s approach inspired me because he believed in me and encouraged me to express my thoughts and feelings.  I enjoyed his dynamic character and his ability to eloquently explain abstract and complicated concepts without making us feel ignorant. Mr. Van Kestern taught me the importance of thinking for myself, patience and respect which are important to embody as a student because it will help me persevere throughout my Sheridan journey.  

​

​