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Prateek Thapar

Business Administration, 2009

Studying at Humber was nothing but an amazing experience for Humber grad, Prateek Thapar. An amazing advocate of the college, Prateek genuinely feels a sense of home with every thought of his alma mater. 

“Humber is a very happening place - there is so much life. I never left the campus because I never wanted to leave; not only did I study at Humber, but I also worked and lived on campus.” 

Prateek’s resume speaks for itself. With just a quick glance you will see the long list of work-study jobs he held. From Peer Tutoring and Student Orientation to Student Counselling and Alumni Relations, Prateek loved working in various positions that both provided experience as well as allowed him to keep close to the school he loved. 

He recalls one specific moment during his time as Senior Orientation Leader, “We were working for an event in the gym, and I had my Junior Orientation Lead in the Hawk mascot. He didn’t seem very enthusiastic, so we decided to switch roles. When I got in the costume and started interacting with the students, it was like a Hawk marathon! We all had a lot of fun.”

Soon after graduating, Prateek was faced with an ultimatum; continue his education to receive a degree, or find a job to start paying the substantive international student fees. With the help and encouragement of his father, Prateek was able to enroll in the Bachelor of Business Administration program at the University of Guelph-Humber. 

After completing his degree, Prateek quickly secured a job, proving that he had made the right decision.

Two years ago Prateek went into business with his brother, and decided to open Furniture Ville – a retail store that sells customizable, Canadian-made furniture. Working both full-time at his job, as well as part-time with his brother, Prateek only recently decided to focus and fully commit to the family business. 

“Based on the work I did at Humber, I was able to build my resume which helped me get a job right after graduating.” Prateek credits his college education for providing him with the skills and experience needed for him to become an entrepreneur.  

Prateek provides advice to students, and recommends “finding a balance in your life. You shouldn’t commit yourself to just your studies – you also need to go out there and get experience.” 

He commends Humber for being so accommodating to him as a student, allowing him to gain the experience he needed to succeed, as well as providing such a diverse atmosphere for him to feel at home. 

“I love Humber – I wish I could go back!”