Kevin De Silva’s transformative journey at Yorkville University has been one marked by entrepreneurial zeal and academic pursuit.
Recently named the student graduation speaker for his graduating class, the Sri Lankan born and raised Bachelor of Business Administration alumnus was driven by his passion for business and innovation to move to Canada on his own at 19 to pursue his post-secondary studies here at YU.
De Silva credits his time at Yorkville – during which he served in several different roles on the YU Project Management Guild, including Vice President – for helping him lay a foundation for his future endeavors.
“The most important thing I’m taking away from my studies at Yorkville University is the practical knowledge and skills that I can apply directly to real-world situations,” he said, while also noting the importance of the relationships he’s formed with both his classmates and professors.
“The collaborative learning environment and diverse perspectives have enriched my educational experience significantly.”
Today, De Silva is a Certified Project Management Associate who thrives as a project coordinator – a role that allows him to channel his entrepreneurial spirit and creativity into impactful projects.
In future, he aspires to revolutionize industries by developing innovative business technology solutions and transformative automation technologies for everyday convenience.
De Silva recently sat down to reflect on his time at Yorkville University and his plans for the future. Here’s what he had to say:
What brought you to Yorkville University? Where were you in your life/career when you decided to continue your studies with us?
What brought me to Yorkville University was a combination of factors. At that point in my life, I was seeking to enhance my career prospects and deepen my understanding of business administration. Yorkville’s flexible online programs caught my attention as they offered the perfect balance for someone like me who was juggling work and other commitments.
What made you decide to pursue your Bachelor of Business Administration?
Deciding to pursue my Bachelor of Business Administration was a natural progression for me. I’ve always been fascinated by how businesses operate and wanted to gain a comprehensive understanding of management, finance, marketing, and other key areas within the business realm.
What is the most important thing you’re taking away from your studies at Yorkville University?
The most important thing I’m taking away from my studies at Yorkville University is the practical knowledge and skills that I can apply directly to real-world situations. Additionally, the relationships I’ve formed with fellow students and faculty members have been invaluable. The collaborative learning environment and diverse perspectives have enriched my educational experience significantly.
What are your plans after graduation, both immediate and long term?
As for my plans after graduation, in the immediate term, I aim to leverage my newly acquired skills to advance in my current career or explore new opportunities. Long-term, I aspire to take on leadership roles within organizations and make meaningful contributions to the business world.
If you offered one piece of advice to an incoming student, what would that be?
If I were to offer one piece of advice to an incoming student, it would be to stay curious and proactive. Take advantage of all the resources available, whether it’s connecting with professors, participating in extracurricular activities, or seeking out internships. And don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone – that’s where growth happens.
