At LangaraFest, four students shared how Langara helped shape their academic and career goals through supportive instructors, small class sizes, and strong university transfer options. Their stories show how students at Langara can build confidence, explore their interests, and prepare for what comes next.
Langara College gives students a strong place to start, whether they are pursuing Arts, Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, Health, or Business. At LangaraFest, four remarkable students shared their stories and spoke about how Langara's supportive environment and clear transfer pathways have shaped their academic experiences and future aspirations.
Ava Giovinazzo, a Kinesiology student and captain of the Women’s Soccer team, chose Langara for its blend of athletics and academics. "I chose Langara because the school offered the opportunity to pursue soccer while also allowing me to study kinesiology," Ava reveals. The small campus and intimate class sizes made her transition to post-secondary education seamless. “What surprised me the most is how much is offered to assist with excelling academically... all you have to do is ask and utilize it!"
With numerous accolades including a Langara College Athletic Scholarship and recognition as a PACWEST All-Star, Ava plans to transfer to UBC to pursue graduate studies in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or medicine. She credits Langara for providing a strong foundation, stating, "I have gained all the essential knowledge required to confidently move toward my career goals."
As an international student and recent graduate of the Associate of Science in Computer Science program, Axel Gael Velasquez Castaneda has made full use of Langara’s learning opportunities. He notes, "I chose it because it seemed like a strong option for transferring to UBC/SFU." His small class sizes facilitated a meaningful relationship with teachers, making them a vital support system. "My instructors were undoubtedly my greatest academic support," he says.
Currently working as a junior research assistant at Langara’s Applied Research Centre (ARC), Axel values the chance to connect classroom learning with real projects. "Working at ARC allows me to contribute to meaningful projects while learning from industry professionals." He plans to continue his education at UBC or SFU, emphasizing the importance of dedication, particularly as competition in tech intensifies.
Coco Ma, a student in the Food, Nutrition, and Health Transfer program, embraced the nurturing learning environment at Langara. "I chose Langara for its supportive learning environment and strong transfer pathways," she explains. Being active in the Nutrition Club has allowed her to engage with fellow students, enhancing her experience beyond academics. "Getting involved outside the classroom has given me the opportunity to meet new people."
Coco balances her studies with work as a dietary aide and volunteering at a food bank. She shares, "Langara is where growth happens, and I’m happy to be a part of it." Looking ahead, she plans to transfer to UBC to further her education in nutrition and health sciences. For future students, her advice is simple: Connect with academic advisors early to make the transfer process easier.
Diego Francois-Flores is an Indigenous student from Skwlāx te Secwépemcúl̓ecw (Little Shuswap Lake) studying Commerce with plans to transfer to UBC through the UBC-Langara Indigenous Transfer Partnership. He chose Langara to create meaningful change in his community. “The presence of a supportive team... provided an added layer of surety,” he shares, pointing to the College's role in helping Indigenous students feel supported and connected. Diego's goals are ambitious, as he aims to improve financial literacy within his community.
His upbringing influenced his determination; he notes, “Growing up in poverty gave me a unique perspective on life... I learned to recognize my goals and values.” Diego views his education as a stepping stone towards creating opportunities for others, stating, “I’ll build upon that foundation at UBC and carry it forward into life beyond academia.”
The student panel at LangaraFest offered something simple and reassuring: there is no single way to build a future. Some students arrive with a clear plan. Others figure things out as they go. What these four stories show is that Langara College can be a place where students build skills, find support, and take the next step with more clarity than they had before.
For prospective students, that may be the most useful takeaway of all. You do not need every answer at the start. You just need a place to begin: Get started.
