Transitioning into a new academic and cultural environment is never easy, but for Larissa Nseyep, BCom’15, the journey was one of transformation, resilience, and achievement. Originally from Cameroon, Larissa chose McGill Desautels not just for its academic excellence but for its vibrant, international community that fosters an entrepreneurial spirit. From co-founding a student initiative to refining her leadership and communication skills, her time at McGill shaped her into a confident and adaptable professional. In this Q&A, she shares her experiences, lessons learned, and advice for future African students looking to follow a similar path.
Why did you choose to study at McGill Desautels?
I was eager to transition from a French- to an English-speaking academic system, and to join a university with a diverse, global student body. McGill Desautels offered the perfect environment to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and learn from their experiences. Additionally, the entrepreneurial mindset prevalent among McGill students was inspiring, and I’m grateful to have developed that mindset over my time there.
What was one of the highlights of your time with us?
My journey at McGill was marked by significant personal and professional growth. The highlight was undoubtedly co-founding the McGill Desautels African Business Initiative (McGill DABI), a project that allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the university’s community. Beyond that, my personal development stood out—improving my English, which was my third language, and stepping out of my comfort zone. Presenting at least twice in every course each semester helped me build confidence and resilience. McGill truly laid the foundation for both my technical and interpersonal skills.
How has your McGill Desautels education transformed you as a person?
McGill Desautels transformed me into a more confident and well-rounded individual. It equipped me with the ability to thrive in diverse environments, work effectively in teams, and adapt to new challenges. My time at McGill taught me the value of perseverance and constant self-improvement.
What is your current role, and how have the skills you gained at McGill Desautels helped you in your current work?
I currently work in consulting, and the skills I gained at McGill Desautels are integral to my career. The program encouraged collaboration with peers from various cultural backgrounds and age groups, often under tight deadlines. This experience helped me develop emotional intelligence and communication skills, which are essential in my daily interactions with clients and teams. The ability to navigate and succeed in diverse, team-based projects continues to be one of my greatest professional assets.
What advice would you give to other African students looking to study at McGill Desautels?
Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back—take the leap. When I first started, I was hesitant to participate in extracurricular activities, worrying about how they might affect my academic performance. However, I soon realized that the experiences outside the classroom are what truly shape you as an individual and prepare you for future opportunities. McGill Desautels offers a supportive environment for growth, independence, and endless possibilities.
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
The BCom program prepares students for professional and managerial careers by fostering critical thinking, interdisciplinary integration, and practical business problem-solving. Students develop risk-taking, teamwork, and leadership skills, gaining essential management competencies to thrive in the global marketplace.
