Rachel Ridley

I would recommend studying in the Explorations program for many different reasons. Firstly, if you are not sure exactly which program you would like  to pursue at SFU, Explorations is great because it will give you fundamental skills and abilities in areas of writing, presenting, research, teamwork, communication, problem solving and many more core courses and knowledge that you will need for any area of study you decide to pursue.

Explorations gives you time to think, without wasting your time! Even if you do know what you want to study (for example, I knew I was going into the Business program when I started Explorations), it is a really interesting program that expands your mind and opens you up to many learning possibilities.

Another reason I would recommend the Explorations program is that it will give you the opportunity to make some great life-long friendships -- I am in my fourth year at SFU now and I still have many friends whom I met in Explorations that I am still very close with!

I would say that almost everything about where I am now academically, personally, and professionally has to do with my SFU experience. I have been able to take advantage of so many opportunities that have opened a lot of doors for me in my four years here at SFU.

My current position as an Associate Student Recruiter at SFU Surrey is a result of the amalgamation of all the opportunities I have taken as an SFU student such as International Exchange, Co-op, Volunteer experience, Student clubs etc.
which enables me to speak to other students from a personal level, helping them to connect the bridge that separates them from high school to university.

Also, my academic background in Business and Communication has helped tremendously in feeling comfortable making presentations, marketing SFU in a positive light and communicating with students in an effective way. My experiences at SFU have helped, and continue to help me, grow as a person and provide me with confidence in my skills and abilities both academically and professionally.

Rachel Ridley, Explorations 2005/06
Bachelor of Business Administration Candidate
BA Candidate, Communication, Minor in Publishing
Associate Student Recruiter, SFU Surrey