Most students spend less time on campus after graduating, but Abhijeet Singh (MEL CEEN ’21) is reversing that trend.
After completing the majority of his degree remotely, Abhijeet is now an active part of the alumni community, and he’s making up for lost time. That includes coming back to campus for a role as an Alumni Representative at the 2021 graduation ceremony, and more recently for his make-up graduation ceremony on November 22, 2022.
Though he attended his MEL degree’s virtual graduation, Abhijeet was keen to celebrate the achievement in person. “A lot of universities don’t offer this, so it’s a special milestone,” he says. “Some friends from my course are travelling from Ontario, even Germany to attend. It’ll be a mini reunion for us!”
Grateful to have less distance to travel than some of his peers, Abhijeet intends to make the most of all that’s available to him on campus as a UBC alum.
"I love campus,” he says. “I used to go to the swimming pool after work, and running in Pacific Spirit Park. Now, when I get invites to events on campus, I always register to attend. Next year I want to pick up some courses relating to energy efficiency too.”
Since graduating from Applied Science and Sauder’s joint MEL program, Abhijeet has found a role as an Energy Specialist with BC Care Providers Association & EngAge BC. He came to UBC for the quality of education and discovered that British Columbia has a lot to offer.
“I didn’t know about the weather before I moved here from India, but it’s the ideal place to work and study if you’re interested in green sectors,” he says. From the world-class expertise found on campus to job opportunities around the province, BC is a hotbed for those working in clean energy.
Three months in, his degree took an unexpected turn when learning suddenly moved online. Regardless, Abhijeet found community and kindred spirits at UBC. “When I started here, UBC made me really comfortable. Now I feel it’s my responsibility to do the same for the next generation of prospective students,” he says.
The MEL program may teach discipline, but Abhijeet knows that many students could use a little help planning their time. He's happy to offer guidance so that they can make the most of opportunities available to them.
To me, being a member of the alumni community means service. UBC is doing a service to the generation ahead, and I want to give back by devoting my time and effort to future generations too.
What’s next for Abhijeet? He’s all about embracing change and has some words of wisdom for those entering the world of work: “You know, Ford didn’t build his company until later in life. It’s ok to follow your own journey, change your mind and feel confused. You have to stay true to yourself and find your own purpose in life.”
Learn more about the MEL program, or check out upcoming UBC alumni events.
