HARDIKA NARAYANKAR

What motivated you to choose Confederation College, and what inspired your decision to pursue your program?

Coming from a media background in India, I was always curious to understand how marketing strategies and digital media practices worked outside my home country. Canada presented a dynamic landscape, and Confederation College stood out to me with its practical and industry-aligned Digital Marketing program. The two-year structure gave me not only a strong foundation but also room to explore and apply what I learned. It was important for me to study in a place that blended academic knowledge with real-world experiences, and Confederation offered exactly that.

What was the most impactful experience during your time at Confederation College, whether academic, extracurricular, or personal?

One of the most transformative parts of my journey was working as a Digital Media Assistant with the International Department. Alongside that, being selected as a Global Brand Ambassador for the college gave me a platform to represent Confederation on various forums and interact with students from around the world. These roles gave me hands-on experience in the field of marketing and communications. More importantly, I was able to apply classroom concepts directly to my work, something that deepened my understanding of how the education industry functions in Canada.

How has your time at Confederation College shaped your journey, both personally and professionally?

Confederation College was more than just an academic experience; it was a turning point in both my personal and professional life. Personally, it gave me the space and support to grow into a more confident, resilient individual. As an international student, moving to a new country was a huge step, but the college community made it feel less daunting. I was able to form meaningful friendships that became my support system. These connections helped me navigate life in a new country, and slowly, Canada started to feel like home.

Professionally, the college helped me build a strong foundation in digital marketing tailored to the Canadian industry. The hands-on learning, combined with opportunities like working with the International Department and representing the college as a Global Brand Ambassador, helped me bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Overall, Confederation college gave me the confidence to find my place in a new country, grow as a marketer, and build a future I’m proud of.

What are you up to now?

Currently, I’m working at Lakehead University as an International Social Media Officer. Getting a role in my field after graduation has been incredibly fulfilling. It feels rewarding to apply what I’ve learned and continue growing as a professional. Outside of work, I’m enjoying life in Thunder Bay, exploring the natural beauty, building a network, and embracing this new chapter.

Is there anything else you'd like to share? Whether it's personal or professional—have you recently bought a house, tied the knot, or received an award? We'd love to hear about it!

Receiving the Board of Governors Award for the School of Business, Hospitality and Media Arts, along with the Future Alumni Leader Award, were proud moments that recognized my contributions and reinforced my commitment to student leadership and initiative. These recognitions have not only encouraged me to continue contributing to student communities but have also strengthened my belief in the value of hard work and involvement beyond the classroom. Every step at Confederation has added depth to my journey, and I’m truly grateful for that.