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Madison Chow

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

I’m from Markham and I attended Bur Oak Secondary School for high school.

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

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences.

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

First Year:

  • HEAT Varsity Dance Team
  • Essex Hall Resident’s Council, Vice President of Promotions
  • Western Rehabilitation Sciences Club

Second Year:

  • HEAT Varsity Dance Team
  • HOSA Western Chapter
  • CAISA Fashion Show

Why did you choose Ivey’s HBA program?

Coming out of high school, I had many different interests and passions, but leadership was the common thread in all my experiences. Ivey stood out to me because it wasn’t just about business—it was about becoming a leader for life. The program's emphasis on real-world problem-solving and collaboration ensures that I can develop leadership skills that will be valuable in any industry I choose to enter. I knew that by choosing Ivey, I was choosing to grow, challenge myself, and position myself for a career where I can truly make an impact.

Describe one highlight of your Ivey Experience thus far.

One of the biggest highlights has been working on projects with diverse groups of people. The case-based learning method constantly pushes me to adapt my working style and learn from different perspectives. Beyond the academic growth, these collaborations have been a great way to build lasting friendships. The demanding nature of the program can be intense, but knowing I have a strong support system of peers going through the same experience makes all the difference.

What advice do you have for incoming HBA students?

Stay true to yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing, but remember why you chose Ivey in the first place. When I first entered the program, I was unfamiliar with business school norms, and because of the conversations around me, I felt pressure to pursue consulting or finance—paths I hadn’t seriously considered, especially coming from a science background. It’s important not to waste energy chasing something just because it’s what others are doing. Focus on what excites you, and trust that your unique path will lead to success.

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

Ivey’s Career Management team has been instrumental in preparing me for my professional journey. The career coaching integrated into the curriculum provides guidance on resumes, cover letters, and interviews. Additionally, the opportunity to connect with Ivey alumni has been incredibly helpful. The alumni network is filled with people eager to offer advice, share their experiences, and help students navigate their own paths. Having access to this level of support has made a huge difference in my confidence and career readiness.

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

The biggest source of support has been my peers. Ivey fosters a collaborative environment where students uplift each other rather than compete. The program is rigorous, but knowing that I’m not alone in the challenges instills resilience. Whether it’s study groups, late-night case discussions, or simply sharing words of encouragement, having a strong network of peers has helped make the experience both manageable and enjoyable.

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

Adjusting to the pace and structure of classes was a challenge. Coming from a traditional lecture-based learning environment, I was used to passively absorbing information. At Ivey, every class is dynamic, fast-paced, and requires active participation. At first, it was overwhelming, but I learned to be more flexible in my study habits. I also realized that the learning curve was intentional—this program is designed to mirror real-world business challenges. Embracing that mindset helped me adapt, grow, and become more confident in my ability to handle uncertainty.

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

Being surrounded by driven, high-achieving individuals has been one of the most inspiring aspects of Ivey. The program doesn’t just teach leadership—it forces you to practice it daily. Group projects, case discussions, and hands-on experiences push me to communicate effectively, think critically, and lead with confidence. Case-based learning has also taught me how to analyze real-world problems and develop creative solutions. The environment at Ivey fosters a mindset of continuous growth and impact, and I’ve already seen that influence extend beyond the classroom.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I plan to combine my leadership skills and business acumen with my passion for industries like healthcare, performing arts, entertainment, and consumer packaged goods. My main goal is to create meaningful impact, whether that’s through innovation, strategy, or leadership. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned at Ivey is to stay flexible—opportunities evolve, and success comes from determination, resilience, and adaptability. No matter where my career takes me, I know Ivey has prepared me to lead with confidence and make a difference on a global scale.

HBA '26

Ivey Business School

Madison Chow

Madison Chow

Markham, Canada

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