Languages Profile: Demi Van

Demi Van credits her early love of English music for her proficiency in a hard-to-learn language. Originally from Vietnam, she’s only been in Vancouver for two years and already receives frequent compliments from her fellow students on her English proficiency. 

Demi heard about the Langara English for Academic Purposes (LEAP) program while she was still living in Vietnam. She chose LEAP because she understood the importance of adjusting to a new culture and learning a new language before transitioning into a regular studies program.

“Besides helping me to improve skills and providing cultural knowledge, the LEAP program gave me the confidence to speak in public during my business classes. The LEAP program encourages students to be confident in their abilities,” says Demi.

Recently, Demi had the honour of speaking at the LEAP Graduation Celebration as an alumni speaker. When she first started the LEAP program as a student, she never thought she would have this opportunity.

“The LEAP program taught me and my classmates how to best prepare for an upcoming presentation, how your posture may affect your confidence, and so on. This helped me a lot in the Post Degree Diploma (PDD) Business Administration program as presentations are mandatory in every class and students have to get used to talking in front of an audience.”

After graduating recently from the Business Administration program, Demi joined Asics Canada Corporation as a Key Holder. As part of the management team, she takes care of the stores and the performance of the associates. Her goal is to find a full-time administrative assistant role after honing her managerial and leadership skills.  

In her spare time, Demi enjoys swimming, hiking, and cycling. She loves exploring new trails that lead to breathtaking views and biking around the Stanley Park seawall just before sunset.