In our alumni spotlight series, learn about Harvard graduates' most meaningful experiences from college, and how Harvard impacted their professional and personal paths after graduation.
Hometown & Current City: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
House Affiliation: Dunster
Concentration and Secondary Field: Government, Secondary in Economics
Current Job Title/Company or organization: Bennett Jones LLP
What was your professional path after college?
After graduating in 2019, I returned back to Canada to begin a career in public affairs, government relations and management consulting in Toronto. After two years, I decided to head back to school to pursue my JD/MBA at Western University in London, Ontario. After finishing in April 2024, I will be starting my legal career at corporate law firm Bennett Jones LLP in Toronto.
What fills your time now? Professionally and otherwise?
I am excited to develop a broad practice in corporate/commercial and securities law. Outside of work, I enjoy playing pickup hockey, golf, and tennis. I also adopted a bulldog during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic named Frankie, who keeps me busy. I also love to plan trips and travel, and add new hidden gems to my Toronto restaurant guide.
Some of the highlights of my year are heading down to Cambridge to attend the Harvard lacrosse alumni weekends, and I love staying connected to the Harvard community through volunteer alumni interviewing.
How did your academic experience at Harvard guide you in your post-grad pursuits?
My study of government and economics was certainly relevant to my career in consulting, and the habits I developed have helped me immensely in my legal career. I was able to develop foundational skills in research and writing, but more importantly, I developed soft skills like collaboration, communication and efficient ways of learning.
What was a favorite class you took and why?
In my senior year, I took a course on the business-government relationship in the United States. It was an amazing learning experience offered through the Harvard Kennedy School, which was taught by legendary Harvard professor and former Dunster faculty dean, Professor Roger Porter.
Did you have any research/internship opportunities and/or professor/mentor relationships that were influential?
After taking his government seminar on globalization and private governance, I was able to form a professional and mentor relationship with Professor Michael Hiscox who I continue to stay in touch with. He was a fantastic teacher and mentor.
What were you involved in extracurricularly?
I was a member and senior captain of the NCAA D1 Harvard men's lacrosse team.
How did your extracurricular activities impact your Harvard experience? And have they had an impact on your post-grad life?
Being a part of this organization was the highlight of my time at Harvard, both because of my love of the sport and the program but also the bonds and friendships we created. I also developed many intangible skills that I carry to this day, such as time management, teamwork, discipline and sacrifice.
What is a favorite memory of Harvard House life?
While not specific, I loved the memories of living with my teammates and best friends in DeWolfe housing during sophomore year, as well as our six-person rooms in Dunster during my junior year and senior year. Whether it was brain break in the dining hall, late night food at Dunster Grille, or hanging out in the courtyard during warm spring days, I loved being a part of Dunster.
What is your favorite Harvard tradition and why?
Housing day was a very fun and memorable event. So much energy and excitement, especially if you were lucky enough to be placed in Dunster like me.
What advice do you have for someone applying to college?
Be yourself and keep working toward your goals and passions. Harvard is a one-of-a-kind place and the people and resources are incredible, so take advantage and never take your time there for granted.