Sahej Chilana

MY JOURNEY

I am currently in my fourth year at SFU Beedie, pursuing a concentration in accounting and preparing to start my career in the field after graduation. My academic journey has been one of exploration, growth and clarity over time. 

I chose a business program because of its flexibility. In Grade 12, I spent a lot of time researching different degrees, but I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to pursue. I was drawn to something open‑ended that would allow me to explore different paths, and Beedie stood out for that reason. The wide range of concentrations—finance, HR, operations and more—gave me the freedom to try different areas before committing. 

In my first year, my focus was on adjusting to university and exploring what business could look like as a career. In my second year, I became more involved outside the classroom through clubs, case competitions and the SFU co‑op program. Getting involved early pushed me to build connections, learn from upper‑year students and start thinking more intentionally about my future. 

I decided to specialize in accounting after taking BUS 251, Financial Accounting I. Working through my first set of journal entries and financial statements, I realized I was beginning to understand how a business actually tells its story through numbers. Conversations with students and professionals at Beedie events reinforced that interest and helped make the accounting pathway feel tangible and achievable. 

My accounting co‑op in third year was a turning point. Being able to apply classroom learning in a real work environment gave me clarity and confidence in my abilities. It helped solidify my interest in accounting and gave me a clear sense of direction heading into my final year. 

MY SFU BEEDIE EXPERIENCE

I became involved at Beedie during my second year when I joined the Finance Student Association (FINSA) as a Marketing Coordinator. That role helped me build confidence in communication and student engagement, and over time I took on more responsibility, eventually becoming President. 

Leading FINSA was one of the most impactful parts of my Beedie experience. Managing a team, coordinating large‑scale events and working closely with industry professionals strengthened my leadership skills and taught me how to operate in high‑pressure environments. 

Alongside this, I served in corporate relations with SFU’s Formula SAE Electric team, worked as a Teaching Assistant for BUS 237 and BUS 303, and participated as a BASS mentor supporting first‑year students. Each role gave me opportunities to develop professionally, support others and reflect on my own growth. 

HIGHLIGHTS AND TAKEAWAYS

LAUNCH was one of the most impactful early experiences of my time at Beedie. Going into my first week, I felt uncertain and overwhelmed, but LAUNCH gave me clarity, excitement and a strong sense of belonging. The friendships formed that weekend became the foundation of my university experience and helped me feel fully immersed in the Beedie community from the start. 

Completing my co‑op at KPMG was another defining moment. Working in Audit within the Enterprise practice, I supported private businesses, public sector organizations and not‑for‑profits. I saw how accounting concepts translate into real business decisions, worked across multiple industries and developed professionalism, attention to detail and adaptability. Most importantly, co‑op confirmed that accounting was the right path for me. 

NEXT STEPS

After graduation, I will be returning to KPMG as a Staff Accountant and enrolling in the CPA program. As I move forward, I want to continue learning, progressing and staying open to opportunities that challenge me and help me grow. 

ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS

I came into Beedie with very little direction, and that uncertainty was intimidating. What I learned is that you don’t need to have everything figured out when you start. Beedie doesn’t define your path—it gives you the environment to build your own. If you take advantage of opportunities like co‑op and stay open to exploration, things begin to fall into place.