From IT to ISA: Meet Mehak Kaushal

After spending a number of years in the Information Technology (IT) field, CBU student turned-employee, Mehak Kaushal, was looking for a change in life. Following a bit of self-reflection, she discovered she wanted to shift her focus from IT to business management and quickly realized CBU would be the perfect place for her to follow this new path. 

Upon completing her studies, Mehak joined the team at CBU as an International Student Advisor (ISA). Having lived through the experience of being an international student, working as an ISA seemed like a natural fit. “I have an understanding of both sides of the coin as a student and now employee,” she says. “With that, you understand things better and in turn, are able to help others understand it as well. This helps in making students feel heard, understood and acknowledged.”

During her time as a student, Mehak tried her best to soak up every last ounce of the experience, saying the numerous activities she participated in as her favourite part of her CBU experience. Whether it was talent or fashion shows, Diwali celebrations, the many Week of Welcome events or her time volunteering at the Women’s Centre, she always stayed busy and gave back to the campus community whenever she could. 

Over time, Mehak continued to grow her network and strengthen her connections while staying on top of her studies, which led to many unique opportunities for her, helping to establish lifelong friendships and secure employment during and after her time as a student. “I always tried to be a part of the CBU community by participating in as many events and extra-curricular activities as I could manage,” she says. “Alongside this, I was never afraid to reach out to professors and ask questions.”

Cape Breton quickly became a home away from home for Mehak, and CBU provided her with a sense of belonging that made her feel valued and special. As an ISA, she is one of the first points of contact for new and returning international students. Thanks to this, she has made it her goal to help make Cape Breton a home away from home for other students, and to ensure they feel the same sense of belonging at CBU that she continues to feel to this day. 

Most recently, Mehak successfully obtained her Canadian Permanent Residency (PR). “I feel so proud of myself, this has been a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders,” Mehak says. “Now more than ever, I feel I am home. I feel safe, secure, stable and an even greater sense of belonging.”