Questions for Jacky Chan (CEOx1Day Finalist)

The CEOx1Day program provides leadership development, career guidance and executive networking opportunities to Canada’s next generation of talent. Ambitious undergraduate students across the country underwent a rigorous selection process for the opportunity of a mentorship day with one of 27 CEOs. Finalists were chosen for their drive and dedication to developing leadership skills, commitment to making an impact in their community and readiness to learn and contribute.

Jacky Chan, a second year student in the Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management (BPAPM) program, was one of those finalists.

What inspired you to apply for the CEOx1Day Program?

I was eager to connect with other ambitious students and learn from leaders in various sectors. I was also very interested in the potential opportunity to shadow a CEO for a day.

How has your time at Carleton shaped your career plans?

The BPAPM program allowed me to enrol in a variety of courses from different departments, offering me the opportunity to explore my interests. As a result, my time in BPAPM has diversified my perspectives on possible professional pathways. Right now, I am aiming to pursue a career pathway that focuses on the role of strategic communication in achieving public policy objectives.

The CEOx1Day experience included both a regional Career Development Day with other semi-finalists in the program and a mentorship day for finalists with a CEO. As a finalist, you were paired with Scouts Canada CEO, Liam Burns. What can you tell us about those experiences, and what will you take away from them moving forward?

I had the privilege of shadowing Mr. Burns for a day at the Scouts Canada headquarters for a day. During this time, I got to meet and chat with members of the senior management, observe important discussions, visit the Scouts Canada Museum and attend a local Scouts meeting, as well as have dinner with Mr. Burns and another leader in the non-profit sector. It was great to have the opportunity to see the work that happens behind the scenes as well as witness the meaningful impact that Scouts has on many young people through attending a Scouts meeting. One takeaway from this enriching experience is the importance of building strong relationships with different stakeholders.

If you can share one lesson you learned with your fellow students, what would it be?

The best piece of advice that I would offer my peers would be to continue advocating for yourself, fiercely. For me, this means standing up for my values while keeping an open mind. Be resourceful and continue to believe in yourself. As a student, these traits help to demonstrate that I am self-confident and willing to take initiative, supporting me in my academic and professional endeavours.