Work Term Excellence Award: Anaya Thukral

Portrait of Anaya Thukral

“Adaptability is your best friend.”

– Anaya Thukral, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Specialist in Finance (Co-op) candidate, University of Toronto Scarborough
 
Congratulations to Anaya, recipient of a Management Co-op Work Term Excellence Award for her contributions at Microsoft in Fall 2023!
 
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Tell us about your experience at Microsoft.

I was sitting in Professor Syed Ahmed’s Principles of Finance lecture when I received the job offer via email, and I excused myself from class to simply jump in the hallway with excitement. Working at Microsoft had always been a goal so this was a dream come true. As a Financial Analyst Co-op, I was constantly welcomed on projects that required me to think critically, come up with creative solutions, and collaborate with other business functions. The key lesson I’ve learned from my managers is that the most important part of any project is the last 2%—that is, how it is presented. You might invest hours of effort into creating something extraordinary, but without presenting it effectively, its brilliance may go unnoticed. A systematic and organized presentation lays the foundation for the remaining 98% to truly shine.
 

Why is the Management Co-op program at U of T Scarborough the right fit for you? 

It is a platform for you to become the best version of yourself. The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) curriculum offers an incredible range of specializations, providing you with the opportunity to make the right decision for your future. As someone who enjoys exploring new things, U of T Scarborough has provided me with that privilege through its diverse offerings. There are infinite resources and people who want to support you on your co-op journey. You are not only equipped with technical skills but also with an amazing network. The Management Co-op program gives you a competitive advantage in your future job search.
 

What are your career goals? 

I am targeting a career in the Financial Services industry. I intend to achieve this by leveraging my technical skills from my work term at Microsoft and the fundamental knowledge that I’ve learned through the diverse course offerings in the BBA. The plan is to continue to develop personally and professionally and then work towards obtaining my MBA.
 

Advice for future students? 

Don’t be afraid to explore, go beyond your comfort zone! You won’t know your true potential until you try new things. Adaptability is your best friend and will chart the course for you to grow and develop outside of your regular day-to-day.

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