My Smith Experience 2018
John Sibbald, BCom’18
Why I went to business school: I’m someone with a wide range of interests. I knew that business school would only ever open doors for me; it would never limit my possibilities. Also, the skills learned in business school are applicable in nearly every field, so I knew it was the best fit for me.
One thing I learned at Smith I’ll never forget is that there are certain things you will fail at; it’s inevitable. You just need to “fail forward” — learn from your mistakes and grow.
A highlight of my time at Smith: Founding Q+, the LGBTQ+ alliance at Smith, was a challenging journey that taught me more than I could have imagined. I love seeing the impact that it has made, ranging from inspiring individual students to be confident with themselves, to a major attitude shift of the greater Smith community.
A professor who inspired me: Dr. Nicole Robitaille inspired me to always go the extra mile. If you set high standards for yourself, others will take note.
My motto: “Be bold.”
Favourite business book: Same Words, Different Language by Barbara Annis
Best advice to future students: People do business with people. For that reason, it’s important that you remain authentic to your true self. Embrace and celebrate who you are —whether that be your culture, background, sexuality or gender identity — and you will increase not only your happiness, but also your potential.
What I’m doing next: Management consultant at Oliver Wyman in Boston