RAJVEER HANS (She/Her)

What brought you to KPU and your program of study?

As a first-generation post-secondary student, KPU represented more than just a place to earn a degree, it represented opportunity. Growing up, I watched my parents work incredibly hard after immigrating to Canada to provide for my siblings and me. While they never had the opportunity to pursue higher education themselves, they always encouraged us to take advantage of opportunities they never had.

I was initially drawn to KPU because of its smaller class sizes, supportive learning environment, and strong sense of community. Coming straight from high school, I wanted a place where I could build meaningful connections with classmates and professors while feeling supported in my academic journey. I began in General Studies with plans to transfer into the Professional Development Program (PDP) at SFU and pursue teaching. However, a conversation with an academic advisor encouraged me to gain firsthand experience in the school system before committing to that path.

That advice led me to become an Inclusive Education Support Worker (IESW), formerly known as an Educational Assistant (EA). Working closely with students allowed me to discover a passion I had not anticipated. I became increasingly curious about the “why” behind behaviour, impact of relationships, and the role mental health plays in a student’s success. The more experience I gained in schools and the more psychology courses I completed, the more I found myself drawn to understanding the human mind. This ultimately led me to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Counselling.

Can you briefly describe your current position and your main day to day responsibilities?

I have worked as an IESW within the Surrey school district for the past five years while completing my degree. The flexibility and support I received allowed me to balance full-time work with my studies and gain valuable hands-on experience supporting diverse learners.

Recently, I was hired as a Child and Youth Care Worker (CYCW), a role I will begin in September. This transition reflects my growing interest in counselling, mental health, and supporting vulnerable children and youth. Alongside this new role, I am pursuing a Master of Education in School Counselling at City University in Canada, where I hope to continue developing the skills necessary to support students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being with my long-term goal of having a private practice specializing in family/grief therapy.

Which skills, knowledge, or experiences from KPU have been most valuable in your career so far?

KPU provided an environment where I could be authentic, challenge myself, and grow both personally and professionally. The support I received from professors played a significant role in my success. They consistently encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, recognize my strengths, and pursue opportunities that aligned with my goals.

Throughout my time at KPU, I developed strong communication, organization, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills. The smaller class sizes allowed for meaningful discussions and mentorship opportunities that helped build my confidence. As someone who once spent a great deal of time preparing for presentations, I now feel comfortable speaking in front of groups, volunteering for leadership opportunities, and collaborating with others.

My practicum course was especially valuable because it allowed me to apply the theories and concepts I learned in the classroom to real-world experiences, strengthening both my professional skills and confidence as a future counsellor. The EDUC 4100 Post-University Transition course also played an important role in preparing me for life after graduation by emphasizing networking, professional relationships, and career development. Together, these experiences helped bridge the gap between academics and practice, preparing me to enter the workforce with a stronger sense of purpose and direction.

What advice would you give current KPU students who want to build a successful career after graduation?

Give yourself permission to learn and grow at your own pace. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay if your path looks different than what you originally planned. I entered KPU thinking I would become a teacher, but experiences both in the classroom and in my own life led me toward psychology, counselling, and supporting students’ mental health. Sometimes the setbacks, challenges, and unexpected turns end up pointing you toward the career and purpose that are the right fit for you.

I would also encourage students to build relationships and network whenever possible. Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my journey came from conversations with professors, advisors, colleagues, and peers who challenged me, supported me, and helped me see possibilities I hadn’t considered. Having a strong support system can make a huge difference when navigating university and planning your future career.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to pursue goals that feel ambitious. Success doesn’t come from wishing for opportunities or waiting for luck, it comes from consistently showing up, working hard, and remaining open to new possibilities. The effort you invest in yourself today will pay dividends for years to come.