Caleb Zhou: First-Year at Western

Written by Caleb Muotoh

Caleb Zhou, an aspiring entrepreneur currently studying at Western University (uWO), is just out

of high school, sharing his first-year experience. Located in London, Ontario, Western University

consistently ranks among the top 1% of schools worldwide by large organizations. You may

know Western for its “Purple Pride,” or its array of connections to entry-level employers and its

notable Ivey Business School. Although it isn’t the top university in the country, it has

consistently ranked among the highest in Canada.

The Western University Admission Process

While the broader Western admission accepts applicants with averages in the eighties, Caleb

highlights how the Ivey program combines strong academics with unique opportunities,

emphasizing the higher admission average required (low-mid nineties). However, grades aren’t

everything in the application. Extracurriculars are heavily encouraged, and Ivey looks for

involvement and leadership. Caleb stresses the importance of writing with authenticity to move

beyond the generic application.

Networking and Developing a Career Path

Caleb notes that Western provides an exceptionally large pool of resources for networking early

on through clubs and industry events that are crucial to breaking into high finance. Multiple firms

provide students direct access to experienced analysts and associates themselves, rather than

representatives. Large clubs such as the Western Investment Club and Western Capital

Markets have become pipelines to jobs, with the former guaranteeing some members

internships during their third year. Caleb stresses that starting networking early is a must when

beginning a career in finance. Forming strong relationships with higher-ups can be so great for

exposure to firms. To him, social skills in this field are so integral to the field of business that

They can matter just as much as actual competence in the work itself.

Skill Development and Ventures

During the quarantine, Caleb created a basketball videography and film company, finding

opportunity through catering specifically to underrepresented athletes. However, this venture

required heavy dedication, with Caleb experiencing multiple days of filming for over twelve

hours during basketball tournaments. Through a chance encounter, leading to mentorship and

business growth, showing the power of connections. Though currently on hold due to university

commitments, he views the venture as a valuable source of experience and discipline.

Academic Experience and Future

Caleb’s strong study habits and time management have kept him prepared for this semester’s

final exams, with multiple exams scheduled in a day. He attributes his success to prioritizing

academics over social events in order to stay on top of work and avoid burnout, though

Socializing is still very important. Western’s orientation week gave him the ability to connect with

students from all over the world, expanding his perspective and enriching his experience.

Ivey’s status, connections, and quality education provide the opportunity to pursue his goals

of entering investment banking and branching into private equity or venture capital.

Alumni from the university have consistently given a strong reputation to employers,

forming a reliable foundation for Caleb’s future endeavors.