My CBU Story: Limei Zhang

For as long as she can remember, Limei (Helen) Zhang wanted to work in the non-profit sector. After completing the necessary prerequisites, Helen began searching for an institution that offered a Master’s degree to suit her ambitions. Not long after her search was underway, she was drawn to CBU’s Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) in Community Economic Development (CED). To her, this was the perfect program to prepare her for the path ahead.

Now, set to graduate alongside her classmates during the Spring 2025 convocation ceremony, Helen has been reflecting on her time in the program. “I think what I enjoyed the most during my degree were the case studies our instructors gave us,” she starts. “They were fascinating and usually sparked insightful debates. It turned education into something very interesting and engaging!”

Helen says one of her favourite courses was Business and Community Development II, which presented students with thought-provoking questions that not only deepened understanding of theory but encouraged students to think critically about real-world challenges faced by community-based businesses. 

Outside of the classroom, the Multicultural Festival was a highlight of Helen’s time at CBU. “It was a beautiful and unforgettable event that truly reflected the diversity and inclusivity of the CBU community,” she says. “I was impressed by the diversity of acts, traditional costumes and foods from across the world. It motivated me to be proud of my ancestry while also appreciating that of others.” Helen says events like this helped CBU feel like a second home where everyone is welcome. 

Helen says she was surprised by how much she enjoyed being a student again. “Returning to school after many years made me appreciate the value of education even more. CBU gave me the chance to grow, reflect and reconnect with my academic self and that’s something I’ll always cherish,” she says. “I’m really going to miss going to classes, learning new things and having meaningful discussions with professors and classmates.”

With graduation fast approaching, Helen’s focus has begun shifting to securing full-time employment and bringing her family to Cape Breton to join her. Though her time with the University is coming to an end, she encourages anyone considering CBU to give it a shot. “CBU is more than just a university; it’s a supportive and welcoming community where students from all backgrounds can thrive,” says Helen. “I think this experience can help you grow, as it did for me.”

Congratulations to Helen and the entire Spring graduating class of 2025!