Terry Lum
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I chose geography because I was literally interested in the world. I was always fascinated by maps, urban settings and people. I enjoyed the program because I learned that geography is very diverse with the social, economic, history and physical aspects. And it had great professors at that time!
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
My most meaningful experiences at UBC were my involvement with student clubs. I joined a few clubs in my first year. The one I really enjoyed most was a club called UBC ONE. It no longer exists today, but it had a good run during my time there. The club was based on combining aspects of multicultural and humanitarian activities. I met people from different departments and many were from different backgrounds. I really felt like I was connecting to the world.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
Getting involved with activities outside of academics was a huge contribution towards my journey. By organizing small activities and large events, I was able to develop life skills in leadership, organization, public speaking and communication. These contributed to personal growth that led to getting jobs and advancing in my career.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
I landed a job in Japan after graduation and totally loved it! Other jobs after that included being a business advisor for an internet start-up and becoming the managing director for my wife’s bridal business. After that, I worked for a couple of colleges before settling in with my current college for the past six years.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
No. Working in the education sector was nowhere on my radar while I was a student. There were many turns in the path that lead to my current career. I had about four turns in my path and each was related to changes in direction, ambition, and one just by chance. The biggest challenge I faced was proving myself to others. I had to show that I was educated, that I had relevant work experience, and that I had potential.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
Having an Arts degree opened many doors. UBC is highly recognized throughout the world. There was always that pride of telling people where I studied. Beyond the recognition, I developed interpersonal skills and discipline as an undergraduate. The Arts degree allowed others to see me as someone with diverse interests and skills that went a long way in advancing my career.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
You have to start somewhere, any position should be acceptable. As they say, one thing leads to another. Sometimes you have to look for new opportunities and sometimes they come to you. For me it was a combination of both. It’s very gratifying when someone wants you to work for them. Each job I had allowed me to gain skills, experiences and connections—from an entry level position to an executive role. Every step along the way should be valued.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
Don’t expect things to be the same in 5, 10, or 20 years. Embrace change and learn to adapt.
Terry Lum
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I chose geography because I was literally interested in the world. I was always fascinated by maps, urban settings and people. I enjoyed the program because I learned that geography is very diverse with the social, economic, history and physical aspects. And it had great professors at that time!
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
My most meaningful experiences at UBC were my involvement with student clubs. I joined a few clubs in my first year. The one I really enjoyed most was a club called UBC ONE. It no longer exists today, but it had a good run during my time there. The club was based on combining aspects of multicultural and humanitarian activities. I met people from different departments and many were from different backgrounds. I really felt like I was connecting to the world.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
Getting involved with activities outside of academics was a huge contribution towards my journey. By organizing small activities and large events, I was able to develop life skills in leadership, organization, public speaking and communication. These contributed to personal growth that led to getting jobs and advancing in my career.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
I landed a job in Japan after graduation and totally loved it! Other jobs after that included being a business advisor for an internet start-up and becoming the managing director for my wife’s bridal business. After that, I worked for a couple of colleges before settling in with my current college for the past six years.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
No. Working in the education sector was nowhere on my radar while I was a student. There were many turns in the path that lead to my current career. I had about four turns in my path and each was related to changes in direction, ambition, and one just by chance. The biggest challenge I faced was proving myself to others. I had to show that I was educated, that I had relevant work experience, and that I had potential.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
Having an Arts degree opened many doors. UBC is highly recognized throughout the world. There was always that pride of telling people where I studied. Beyond the recognition, I developed interpersonal skills and discipline as an undergraduate. The Arts degree allowed others to see me as someone with diverse interests and skills that went a long way in advancing my career.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
You have to start somewhere, any position should be acceptable. As they say, one thing leads to another. Sometimes you have to look for new opportunities and sometimes they come to you. For me it was a combination of both. It’s very gratifying when someone wants you to work for them. Each job I had allowed me to gain skills, experiences and connections—from an entry level position to an executive role. Every step along the way should be valued.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
Don’t expect things to be the same in 5, 10, or 20 years. Embrace change and learn to adapt.
