Eric Franzo
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I was interested in learning policy as a way to affect positive change in the world. It helped build a great foundation of skillsets that I’m able to utilize to this day.
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
Outside of the education, it was the connections I made. We had a tight-knit cohort and some of my best memories are great conversations over some wonderful food.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
The practicum that I chose to work on ended up acting as a semi-blueprint for the company I would later go on to create.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
After graduation I worked in IT, taught guitar, and tutored several students.
Prior to that I worked in retail, a yoga studio, an international internship company, and a trout hatchery.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
Not at all! I originally imagined myself behind the scenes working on research projects. After not having much luck applying to jobs, I decided to venture out on my own and try to start something myself.
What do you like about your current job and what do you find challenging? How does it relate to your degree?
I’m really grateful and enjoy the experience of having a vision, and together with others, bringing that vision into existence. It’s a real joy to see that initial spark transform and grow.
Studying policy helped me hone both analytical and decision-making skills, both of which are valuable assets in my current line of work.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
The ability to connect with others. An Arts degree helps foster an understanding of human connection, and in the business world, I think we could all use a little more of that.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
I think it’s important to lead with heart, especially in tech startups where numbers and data tend to rule the day. They certainly have their place, but the power of tech along with an open heart can lead to some pretty incredible changes in the world.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
Don’t base your worth on results—do your best and let the cards fall as they may.
Eric Franzo
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I was interested in learning policy as a way to affect positive change in the world. It helped build a great foundation of skillsets that I’m able to utilize to this day.
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
Outside of the education, it was the connections I made. We had a tight-knit cohort and some of my best memories are great conversations over some wonderful food.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success / journey?
The practicum that I chose to work on ended up acting as a semi-blueprint for the company I would later go on to create.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
After graduation I worked in IT, taught guitar, and tutored several students.
Prior to that I worked in retail, a yoga studio, an international internship company, and a trout hatchery.
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
Not at all! I originally imagined myself behind the scenes working on research projects. After not having much luck applying to jobs, I decided to venture out on my own and try to start something myself.
What do you like about your current job and what do you find challenging? How does it relate to your degree?
I’m really grateful and enjoy the experience of having a vision, and together with others, bringing that vision into existence. It’s a real joy to see that initial spark transform and grow.
Studying policy helped me hone both analytical and decision-making skills, both of which are valuable assets in my current line of work.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
The ability to connect with others. An Arts degree helps foster an understanding of human connection, and in the business world, I think we could all use a little more of that.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
I think it’s important to lead with heart, especially in tech startups where numbers and data tend to rule the day. They certainly have their place, but the power of tech along with an open heart can lead to some pretty incredible changes in the world.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
Don’t base your worth on results—do your best and let the cards fall as they may.
