How Douglas College helped Katya Potapova understand the importance of being yourself as an international student
In 2016, Katya Potapova wanted to take the next step in her studies, leading her to Douglas College’s Post-Degree Diploma in Hospitality Marketing. She felt it was the best fit, aligning with her career aspirations in marketing and business and her goal of expanding her skills and professional qualifications in pursuit of future employment in Canada.
Katya moved to Canada from Yakutsk, Russia by herself when she was 21. She initially felt out of place and strived to find belonging in a new culture. However, Katya’s time at Douglas showed her that diversity is to be celebrated. Meeting other international students helped her find comfort in her own culture, and she learned that she doesn’t need to be somebody else to assimilate.
Her favourite memories include spending evenings in the library with her classmates and the tiring uphill walk from the New Westminster Skytrain station to the main campus. The year she spent at Douglas taught her how to be resilient and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who inspire and uplift you.
Now, Katya is an operations director for Bakau Consulting Inc. She’s passionate about working for her community and prioritizing social justice and equity.