Fatemeh Kalantari (economics)
When Fatemeh Kalantari was looking for a university for her Master's degree in Economics, she knew she'd found the right fit at UVic.
The international student from Tehran, Iran was looking for the perfect blend of academics and community.
"I chose UVic not just for its strong academic reputation, but also for its supportive, inclusive community, the opportunity to engage in hands-on research, practical courses, and the chance to gain work experience through the co-op program—all of which truly make a difference. And let’s be honest—the island lifestyle and ocean views don’t hurt!"
Connecting with Career Services
Like many international students, Fatemeh is interested in exploring a career in Canada, so she decided to attend the Build a Career in Canada event through UVic's Career Services, which brought international alumni and employers to campus to share their experiences navigating the Canadian job market.
"I wanted to understand how to take the next steps in the competitive Canadian job market. The event delivered big time—it helped me polish my resume, rethink how I approach networking, and gain confidence in speaking with people, including hiring managers.
Hearing directly from employers and international alumni made everything feel more real and achievable."
Advice for international students
"To other international students: definitely go to events like this!
It’s such a great way to build confidence, make connections, and realize you’re not alone in the journey."
What's next
"I’m passionate about using data and economic research to support smart, evidence-based policy decisions. My goal is to work as a policy or economic analyst in the public sector.
And a little extra—outside of school, I love teaching, exploring new ideas (especially around sustainability and public well-being), and of course, discovering the best coffee spots in Victoria!"
Learn more
- Book an appointment with a career educator
- Attend career development events
- Explore career resources
- Connect with the support you need