Graduate Spotlight: Anthony Rao

Why I chose Western

I chose Western because of my interest in the BMOS program, the strong student experience, and the many opportunities to engage with both Canadian and international cultures. There are so many activities and chances to meet people from different backgrounds.

My global learning experience

I went on exchange to the Netherlands during my third year through a study abroad program in my department. I spent two months in Nijmegen studying and taking part in different activities with students from all over the world. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I made close friends from places like the United States, Italy, Germany, Austria, Spain, Turkey, and Australia, and we spent a lot of time together travelling, biking, cooking, and learning about each other’s cultures.

My Western experience has been very international, both on campus and abroad. From volunteering at Western International to going on exchange, I have met people from many different cultural backgrounds and have learned a lot while sharing my own culture too. I would recommend going on an exchange to any student who has the opportunity because it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Highlights of my Western experience

One of my favourite experiences was volunteering with Western International. I met so many friendly people, made great friends and connected with students from many different countries — including some places I had never even heard of before. I really enjoyed exchanging stories and learning about different cultures, and every event left me with good memories.

An accomplishment I'm especially proud of

I’m proud that I came back to volunteering after returning from exchange. I wanted to continue helping new international students become more familiar with the Western community, so I picked up volunteer shifts again in my fourth year and continued supporting students.

A fun fact about me

I really enjoy film photography and shoot on 35mm film. I brought my film camera with me while travelling in Europe during exchange and loved taking landscape photos of places like the Swiss mountains and the canals in Amsterdam.

My plans for the future

Right now, I’m applying to graduate schools and also looking for jobs.

In the next three to five years, I hope I’ll have a clearer vision for my future career path. Right now, I’m still exploring what kind of work and field I want to pursue, but I hope I’ll have a stronger sense of direction and what I want my future to look like.

My advice for new students

If you have the chance, I would definitely recommend getting involved and trying programs like exchange or volunteering. Those experiences helped me meet people from different backgrounds, learn about new cultures and create memories that I’ll always remember.