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Jake Pollack

Where are you from? What high school did you attend?

I am from Toronto, ON. I attended Riverdale Collegiate Institute, go Raiders!

What was your Program of Student for Years 1 and 2?

BMOS.

List your Extra-curricular involvement in the first two years of university.

First Year:

  • Western Sports Analytics Club
  • Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity
  • Helped organize a food drive raising over 15,000 lbs of food for the London Food Bank
  • Intramural Basketball, Spikeball, Residence Flag Football

Second Year:

  • VP Outreach, Western Sports Analytics Club
  • Events Commissioner, Social Science Student Council
  • Secretary, Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity
  • Western Investment Club
  • Intramural Basketball and Spikeball

Why did you choose Ivey’s HBA program?

Coming out of high school, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in sales and business, but I wasn’t sure which path would allow me to maximize my potential. In my first two years of studies, I realized that success in sales isn’t just about having strong communication skills—it’s about understanding how businesses operate, identifying opportunities, and building meaningful relationships. I chose Ivey’s HBA program to develop the business acumen needed to excel in sales and to gain a deeper understanding of the strategies that drive growth. I was also drawn to the case-based learning method because, as an extrovert, I thrive in dynamic, collaborative environments where I can engage with talented peers, exchange ideas, and challenge myself to think critically in real-world scenarios.

Describe one highlight of your Ivey Experience thus far.

The highlight of my Ivey experience has been the incredible people in my section. Seeing my friends in the classroom every day makes learning so much more enjoyable, and it's inspiring to witness the talent and brilliance of my peers firsthand.

What advice do you have for incoming HBA students?

My biggest advice for incoming HBA students is to step out of your comfort zone and take full advantage of the countless opportunities Ivey has to offer. Attend as many events as possible—whether it's networking sessions, speaker panels, club meetings, or social gatherings. These experiences not only help you build valuable connections but also expose you to different industries, career paths, and perspectives. The more you put yourself out there, the more you'll grow both personally and professionally. Some of the best learning at Ivey happens outside the classroom, so embrace every opportunity to engage with your peers, faculty, and industry professionals.

How has Ivey’s Career Management team set you up for success?

Ivey’s Career Management team has been important to my success by providing personalized career guidance, refining my resume and interview skills, and connecting me with industry professionals. Their support has given me the confidence and tools to navigate recruitment effectively and secure valuable opportunities.

What kind of support did you find the most helpful with the intense curriculum in HBA1?

The most helpful support during HBA1 came from my professors and peers. Professors were always approachable for guidance while collaborating with classmates provided fresh perspectives and valuable support through the program’s challenges.

What has been the most challenging part of the program for you and how did you overcome it?

Contributing to class every day was hard to adjust to at first. I was initially nervous about speaking up, worried that I might say the wrong thing or that my ideas wouldn’t be well-received. However, I gradually overcame this challenge by setting small goals, such as making at least one comment or asking one question each class. I also started preparing in advance by reviewing the material and jotting down key points I wanted to bring up. Over time, I became more comfortable sharing my thoughts and realized that participation helped me engage more deeply with the material and made class discussions more rewarding.

How has Ivey helped you become a leader and make an impact on the world around you?

Ivey has helped me become a leader by challenging me to think critically, communicate effectively, and make decisions with confidence. Through case-based learning, I have developed the ability to analyze complex problems, collaborate with diverse teams, and present solutions persuasively. The emphasis on real-world application has also pushed me to take initiative and lead discussions, strengthening my ability to make an impact. Beyond the classroom, Ivey’s focus on community engagement has encouraged me to apply my skills in meaningful ways, whether through mentorship, volunteering, or contributing to group projects that drive positive change. These experiences have shaped me into a more adaptable and proactive leader, ready to make a difference in the world around me.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I am working in Strategy at Manulife this summer and hope to continue my career in the insurance industry after I graduate.

HBA '26

Ivey Business School

Jake Pollack

Jake Pollack

Toronto, Canada

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