Meet Our Students: Celebrating Success Stories | Josh Verschoor

When Verschoor first chose the BMOS program, he wasn't certain where his career would lead. What appealed to him most was the flexibility to explore a range of disciplines while developing practical, transferable skills.

"I wasn't completely sure what career I wanted to pursue," he says. "I liked that the program gave me the opportunity to explore different areas while building transferable skills."

That flexibility soon helped him discover his passion. By the end of his first year, he realized he consistently looked forward to his finance courses. The challenge and real-world applications inspired him to deepen his understanding of the field, both inside and outside the classroom, ultimately leading him to specialize in Finance.

One course, in particular, became a turning point. A second-year Personal Finance class introduced concepts that immediately extended beyond the classroom and into everyday life.

"It was the first class where I could immediately apply what I learned to my own life," Verschoor recalls. Conversations about budgeting, investing, and financial planning regularly continued after lectures with his roommates, sparking a growing interest that eventually led him to pursue a summer internship with RBC Dominion Securities in wealth management.

While he did not participate in a formal Co-op program, Verschoor credits the Faculty of Social Science with helping him prepare for that opportunity. By attending networking events, career workshops, and career fairs, he developed the confidence to engage with professionals and build meaningful connections.

"The faculty constantly encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and develop skills that employers are looking for," he says. "The support I received from the staff and student leaders gave me the confidence to participate in opportunities that I may have never otherwise considered."

Throughout his academic journey, Verschoor also found Academic Advising to be an invaluable resource. Choosing courses and selecting a specialization can feel overwhelming, but he appreciated having advisors who listened carefully to his goals and helped him make informed decisions.

Beyond the classroom, Verschoor immersed himself in student life, an experience he describes as the highlight of his time at Western. He served as a Social Science Soph, was a commissioner with the Social Science Students' Council (SSSC), joined the executive team of the Western Ski & Snowboard Club (WSSC), and volunteered with the Early Outreach Conference (Reach).

These experiences gave him countless opportunities to build friendships, organize events, and contribute to the Western community. As a Soph, he mentored a group of 17 first-year students, helping them navigate the transition to university life. He also organized the Faculty Faceoff Hockey Tournament while coaching the Social Science team and planned community events through the Western Ski & Snowboard Club.

"You'll hear it time and time again," he says, "but I truly believe the best way to make the most of your university experience is to get involved in as many ways as you can."

For Verschoor, these leadership experiences became catalysts for personal growth. The confidence he gained through student involvement transformed him in ways he never anticipated.

"Finding such a strong sense of community gave me the confidence to do things I never would have imagined myself doing in high school," he says. "Whether that was public speaking, leading event teams, or even just actively participating in class."

His academic experience was equally enriched by the Faculty's interdisciplinary approach, which encouraged him to connect ideas across disciplines and strengthened his problem-solving abilities. That broader perspective, combined with hands-on leadership experiences, has prepared him to adapt confidently to future opportunities.

This year alone, Verschoor celebrated several significant milestones, including earning admission to the Ivey HBA program, being selected as the Social Science flag holder on the Soph team, organizing the Faculty Council's largest event of the year, and securing his internship with RBC Dominion Securities. Yet, he sees these accomplishments as stepping stones rather than a final destination.

"I don't think I have yet reached my biggest achievement in university," he reflects.

Looking back, Verschoor's advice to future Social Science students is simple: explore your interests, embrace every opportunity, and don't let fear hold you back.

"Choose classes you're genuinely interested in, go to everything, and don't take yourself too seriously," he says. "The less worried you are about how you look to others, the more you'll put yourself out there—and the more you'll get out of your university experience."

Verschoor's story demonstrates that success is rarely defined by a single achievement. Instead, it is built through curiosity, meaningful connections, and the courage to say yes to new experiences. By embracing every opportunity to learn, lead, and grow, he has made the most of his time in the Faculty of Social Science—and is well prepared for the exciting journey that lies ahead.