Coralia Palacios Merino graduated from FDU Vancouver with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) and a minor in Business Administration in 2019. During her time at FDU, she developed strong technical and professional skills through hands-on coursework and active participation in campus life. Today, Coralia continues her journey with FDU Vancouver as a Product Strategy & Development Manager, reflecting her successful transition from student to professional within the university community.

Coralia’s academic experience was marked by a smooth transition as a transfer student and a strong engagement with her program. She credits FDU Vancouver for equipping her with industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills that prepared her for real-world opportunities in the fast-evolving IT field.

Read more about her journey, experiences, and career insights in the interview below. This interview was conducted by Dhruv Sharma, Student Ambassador, on December 18, 2020.

1. In which program did you enroll? What are you doing after graduation?

I enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) program with a minor in Business Administration. Right now, I am a full-time employee at FDU as an IT assistant.

2. How was your transition to FDU as a transfer student? Why did you choose FDU Vancouver?

I came from an Engineering program, and my transition to FDU was really easy and with no problems. I chose FDU because a friend of mine from home, who was already in the BSIT program, highly recommended it. I took a chance, and now it is one of the best decisions I’ve made.

3. Can you tell us the best attributes you noticed during the coursework for your BSIT program?

If I had to highlight the best attributes of my coursework, I would say they were my Networking and programming courses. The instructors always gave us updated information, and they taught us skills that are currently being used in the market. This was really helpful while trying to apply to internships, and to get my current my job.

4. What were your favourite classes?

My favourite classes were Programming for the Internet with Professor Sourav, and my Network classes with Professor Jonn Martel.

5. What advice do you have for current and future FDU students to succeed in their BSIT program?

My advice to them is to work on their personal skills, and not only stay with the instructors who give us in class. Try to get involved in extracurricular activities and learn new technologies on your own while using the knowledge the BSIT program provides.

6. What is your favourite memory of studying in FDU?

My favourite memory of studying in FDU was all the ones where I got to meet my friends. Student events like the BBQs we have at the beginning of the semester, Global Scholar events, where we would help with hosting the event and meet global leaders.

7. Did you feel prepared for life after graduation, for your career?

The university gave me the tools to keep building my skills and prepare for my future jobs. Now, due to the nature of my field, I keep learning and getting more knowledge to stay current with information.

8. Any other advice for our current students?

For students, I would tell them to enjoy their university years, take these years to meet new people who will become their future colleagues and friends, and build new lasting relationships.