A Partnership Built for Success: Meet Ahmed Elsharkawey

As a child growing up near the Great Pyramids of Egypt, Ahmed Elsharkawey always had a passion for learning. 鈥淚 wanted to figure out how computers work, and I genuinely enjoyed learning about new technologies,鈥 says Ahmed. 鈥淓ven back then, I knew I needed to find the right educational opportunity that would help me channel my passions into a challenging and rewarding career.鈥

His research soon led him to the CIC Dual Option program at the in Egypt. Developed in partnership between CIC and 小猪视频, the program provided Engineering Technology students with the opportunity to transfer to 小猪视频and receive accredited degrees from both institutions. 鈥淚 applied immediately,鈥 Ahmed laughs. 鈥淔rom that moment onward, transferring to CBU鈥檚 main campus became my only goal.鈥

After his acceptance into the Dual Option program, Ahmed was delighted by the professionalism of the 小猪视频team. 鈥淔rom paperwork to logistics, everyone at 小猪视频did everything they could to ensure a seamless transition process,鈥 says Ahmed. 鈥淭hen, from the moment I arrived in Canada, they made me feel so welcome. As an international student, I have so much gratitude for the effort my classmates and faculty put in to help me feel like they valued my unique perspective and diverse background. I really felt like I was enriching the cultural fabric of CBU.鈥

Happy in his new home and passionate about his chosen field of study, Ahmed was determined to make the most of his unique educational circumstances. 鈥淚 believe CBU鈥檚 Engineering Technology program is designed to foster creative problem-solving and teach students how to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios,鈥 he says. 鈥淚 knew my instructors were doing their best to give us a leg up in today鈥檚 job market.鈥

Despite Ahmed鈥檚 focus on his studies, he still managed to find time to enjoy campus life. 鈥淎t CBU, there is something for everyone, including activities, clubs and organizations that will help you build lifelong friendships,鈥 says Ahmed. 鈥淚n fact, one of the highlights of my university experience was participating in soccer. I had the opportunity to play in futsal tournaments where I showcased my skills and competed against other teams as a part of the sports community.鈥

As Ahmed鈥檚 graduation date approached, he was confident his education had prepared him for success. With a recent alumni survey indicating that 84 per cent of recent 小猪视频Bachelor of Engineering Technology graduates reported they were currently working full-time, Ahmed knew that CBU鈥檚 stellar reputation for producing graduates with exemplary leadership, teamwork, time-management and decision-making skills would help open doors for him.

Ahmed has some advice for future Dual Option students. 鈥淲ork hard! Be willing to step out of your comfort zone and embrace challenges,鈥 he says. 鈥淲ith determination, resilience and a willingness to explore new horizons, you can pave the way to your desired achievements.鈥

Nowadays, when Ahmed isn鈥檛 working, you鈥檒l find him pursuing his other passion 鈥 cupcakes. 鈥淚鈥檓 a cupcake master!鈥 Ahmed proudly states. 鈥淚 have a special talent for baking and decorating eye-catching cupcakes that bring smiles to everyone鈥檚 faces. My friends and family can鈥檛 get enough of my cupcakes, and they鈥檙e always excited to see what tasty creations I come up with next!鈥