When we first featured Nadine Thyssen (BMgmt '26), her impressive achievements already set her apart. The economics and finance double major had earned prestigious scholarships, gained international experience through study abroad opportunities and demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence both inside and outside the classroom.
Now, as the recipient of the Dhillon School of Business Gold Medal, Nadine's undergraduate journey has culminated in one of the University's highest academic honours. We caught up with Nadine to reflect on her time at the University of Lethbridge, the experiences that shaped her success and what's next as she embarks on the next chapter of her career.
Meet Nadine.
Medal won: Gold Medal - Dhillon School of Business
Program: Bachelor of Management | Major: Finance and economics
What drew you to your program or field of study?
My older sister has her accounting degree from ULethbridge and was a large influence on my choice to pursue a Bachelor of Management. I always loved math in school, so I knew I wanted to major in something with a quantitative focus. I was torn between majoring in economics or finance, until I talked to my academic advisor and found out I could major in both.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?
My most memorable experience was an exchange semester I did with ULethbridge’s partner school Karoli Gaspar University in Budapest. I took part in unique learning experiences, where many of my classes took place at historical and cultural sites throughout the city and my study time was spent at a library inside a former palace. I met friends from around the world who shared their many different cultures and perspectives with me. The experience also gave me the chance to learn more about the country my mom is originally from. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Did you participate in any experiential learning opportunities during your studies?
I completed a 12-month co-op as an Education Abroad Assistant at the ULethbridge International Centre, where I worked with a truly incredible team. During my co-op, I had the privilege of helping plan the IGBM 3592: Māori Culture and Business Practices study tour. The study tour provided Indigenous students with the opportunity to travel to New Zealand and learn about Māori culture and business from Māori hosts. Hearing the lasting impact that the experience had on students was so rewarding and the meaningful impact made it my favourite project that I worked on during my degree.
Were there any courses, professors or experiences that changed your perspective?
I started university during covid when classes were on Zoom and I couldn’t meet any of my classmates in person. Once classes were back on campus, I decided to join the Dhillon Business Students’ Association and met inspiring peers who were motivated to make a difference. Being a part of DBSA made me realize how important community is to the university experience and how much I was lacking those connections during my first year online. For the remainder of my degree, I tried to be involved in the university community as much as possible, through DBSA, volunteering and working on campus, which significantly enhanced my university experience.
Did you receive any scholarships, awards or bursaries during your studies? How did having financial support impact your education?
Yes, I received the Arthur J.E. Child Award, funding from the Global Skills Opportunity program and several other academic scholarships through ULethbridge. University is already stressful and because of scholarships I was extremely privileged to not have the added financial pressure that many students face on top of their studies.
What does this academic recognition mean to you?
I am very honoured to be receiving this recognition, having graduated alongside many outstanding peers. I strived to work hard to maintain my GPA and be involved in the ULethbridge community, and it is encouraging knowing that my efforts were noticed. I will continue putting the same hard work into my next chapter of life.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m currently working as an anti-money laundering analyst and enjoying learning about the world of financial crimes. I plan to continuously pursue learning throughout my life, which at the moment means learning more about anti-money laundering and building my Hungarian language skills. I also plan to keep exploring the world and expect lots of travelling in my future.
What advice would you give to those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge? What would you tell your first-year self?
Don’t be afraid of making the wrong decision. I second guessed so many choices that I made throughout my degree. I wasn’t sure if I was choosing the right major, choosing the right combination of courses each semester, if I should take a break from regular courses and commit to a year-long co-op or if I should pack up and go halfway across the world for a semester. Every experience that followed a decision I made was a learning opportunity and led me to the point I am at today. I wouldn’t go back and change any of it.