When Yorkville University selected its Student Graduation Speakers for the 2026 convocation ceremonies in New Westminster, BC, Joanna Garin was a natural choice.
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A graduate of the Bachelor of Business Administration – Accounting program, she completed her degree over two years while working full time – no small feat for anyone, let alone a new immigrant based in the Yukon, where she navigated her online studies through harsh weather and occasional connectivity challenges.
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Garin, who also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, came to Yorkville having already secured a permanent position in accounting. She pursued the BBA not out of necessity, but out of a genuine drive to deepen her expertise and better serve her organization. Along the way, she balanced her coursework with her responsibilities as a mother, wife, and office professional.
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Garin recently sat down ahead of the Yorkville’s May 27 convocation ceremony to talk about her experience at Yorkville and what comes next. Here’s what she had to say:
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1. What brought you to Yorkville University? Where were you in your life/career when you decided to continue your studies with us?
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I was already in a full-time, permanent position when I decided to return to school. This is actually my second degree –I previously completed a Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering. However, life took an unexpected turn and led me into an accounting role. While further studies were not required for my position, I felt a strong need to deepen my knowledge and skills in order to become a more valuable asset to my company.
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2. What made you decide to pursue your Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting?
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As I mentioned, I secured a permanent position in accounting, and I wanted to excel in that field. Pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting allowed me to build a stronger foundation, gain confidence in my work, and align my academic background with my professional responsibilities.
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3. What is the most important thing you’re taking away from your studies at Yorkville University?
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One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that change is the only constant. Knowledge evolves, industries shift, and we must continuously adapt. During my time at Yorkville, I discovered a different version of myself – someone more resilient, adaptable, and ready to face new challenges. This personal growth is just as valuable to me as the academic knowledge I’ve gained.
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4. What are your plans after graduation, both immediate and long term?
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Immediately after graduation, I plan to apply what I’ve learned to my current role and contribute more effectively to my organization. In the long term, I aim to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and continue advancing my career in the accounting field.
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5. If you offered one piece of advice to an incoming student, what would that be?
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I would tell them that the key to being successful is not the usual things you think about – not connections, not education, not even discipline. Those help for sure, but they are not the real difference. It’s the ability to reset faster. The reality is we all make mistakes, but not everyone knows how to bounce back quickly. It’s not the failure that stops you; it’s how long you stay stuck in it.
