Deep Patel

Spring 2025 Valedictorian

Clubs/associations:

• Vice-president at Concordia Yoga Club
• Independent director, board of directors, Commerce and Administration Students' Association (CASA)
• Director of corporate relations, John Molson Competition Committee (JMCC)
• Senator, Concordia University Senate
• Treasurer, 67th Garnet Key Society

Extracurriculars

• Academic delegate, CFA Ethics Discipline at Financial Open (FO) Case Competition
• Academic delegate – Entrepreneurship Discipline at Jeux du Commerce Central (JDCC) Case Competition
• Volunteer and honoured with the Outstanding Volunteer Award at Cedars Cancer Foundation

What does it mean to you to be able to celebrate this milestone?

Being named valedictorian for the John Molson School of Business Class of 2025 is a heart-soaring honour that fills me with gratitude and joy. This milestone is more than a personal achievement — it’s a celebration of the vibrant Concordia community that lifted me from a timid international student to a confident dreamer. It means standing tall with my peers, whose love and energy fueled my journey, and sharing our story of courage, connection, and unstoppable hope. I’m thrilled to celebrate this moment, a testament to the power of dreaming big, staying authentic, and building bridges together!

What are your best memories or takeaways from your Concordia experience?

My best memories at Concordia shimmer with connection and growth. Late-night study sessions in John Molson, bursting with laughter and shared dreams, turned classmates into family. Mentoring first-years, watching their confidence bloom, warmed my heart. Leading events as Treasurer of the 67th Garnet Key Society, uniting hundreds in pride, felt electric. My takeaways? Courage transforms, authenticity shines, and serving others sparks joy. Concordia taught me to dream big, listen deeply, and build bridges, lessons I’ll carry forever with boundless gratitude.

How did John Molson Career Management Services (CMS) help you throughout your student journey?

When I started in 2020 as an international student, I was a bundle of nerves, unsure how to navigate the professional world. Enter Susanne Thorup, my guiding light and finance advisor, whose warmth and wisdom lit my path through every joy and challenge. Her belief in me built my confidence, shaping me into the networker I am today. Equally, Tamilia Buonanno’s support was a spark of inspiration, offering practical guidance that helped me chart my course. From crafting resumes to practicing interviews, CMS gave me tools to dream big and pursue my passion for finance with boldness. Their early guidance was my foundation, fueling my leadership as valedictorian and my career aspirations in capital markets and filling my heart with gratitude.

How did CMS events and support help you get internships and home in on your career options?

CMS events were a game-changer. The C-RISE events, tailored for international students, were pure magic — vibrant gatherings where I connected with former international students turned professionals at top firms. Landing internships at Scotia Wealth Management and PSP Investments was a direct result of those connections. One C-RISE workshop stood out: a panel of alumni sharing their journeys, which inspired me to pursue capital markets with focus and fire. These events didn’t just open doors; they changed my personality, making me an enthusiastic networker ready to chase my dreams. I’m endlessly grateful for CMS’s magical touch, igniting my career and lighting up my future!

What's next for you?

I’m bursting with excitement for what’s next! As I step forward from Concordia, I’ll be pursuing my journey towards capital markets, diving into the dynamic world of finance with the same passion and purpose that defined my time here. I’m eager to apply my skills in strategic analysis and collaboration, honed at Concordia, to drive impactful solutions in equity markets. With gratitude for this foundation, I’m ready to chase bold dreams, build new connections, and make a lasting difference!