Jhermi Mehta's perseverance and mastering the continuous learning mindset for success

In March 2024, Jhermi Mehta graduated from University of Calgary Continuing Education with a Certificate in Business Analysis, marking yet another personal milestone. However, Jhermi's journey through education and career growth began much earlier, with an ambition to continuously push the boundaries of what he could achieve.

After obtaining his bachelor's degree at the University of Regina, Jhermi returned to Calgary in 2018, where his path took a pivotal turn. It was during this time that he enrolled in University of Calgary Continuing Education's Business Intelligence and Analytics certificate program. As someone who had never ventured into the world of data before, Jhermi found himself fascinated by the power of tools like Microsoft Power BI and SQL. "I didn't know anything about dashboards before," Jhermi reflects. "But once I was introduced to them, I liked it, and I pursued my career in that direction."

I didn't know anything about dashboards before. But once I was introduced to them, I liked it, and I pursued my career in that direction.

The Business Intelligence and Analytics certificate became the bedrock of his career, introducing him to concepts that would become essential to his work. He learned to create dashboards, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and handle data in a way that shaped his professional trajectory. This solid foundation encouraged him to continue exploring, leading him to pursue the Business Analysis certificate years later.

Jhermi's dedication to learning didn't stop at a single certificate. Even while working full-time, he continued to enrol in courses to expand his skills and knowledge. Balancing work with education was challenging, but Jhermi credits his success to the unwavering support of his family. "My family is everything," he says. "Whether it's making sure I get to class on time or asking me what I plan to do next, they've always been there to encourage me."

The past few years have not been without their challenges. In 2023, Jhermi underwent surgery for Chiari malformation, a procedure that required months of recovery and rehabilitation. For a time, he had to pause both work and education. But his resilience shone through as he returned to both arenas in the summer of 2023, determined to continue where he left off. "Coming back after surgery wasn't easy," Jhermi admits. "But I knew I could do it. I had been balancing work and study since 2018, so I just pushed myself again."

Anything new can seem daunting. But once you take that first step, you're already conquering your fears.

Jhermi credits the programs as the catalyst for his career success. "I would say my entire career is thanks to University of Calgary's Continuing Education," he says. "Without those opportunities, I wouldn't be where I am today." For those hesitant to take the first step into continuing education, Jhermi offers some sage advice. "Anything new can seem daunting," he says. "But once you take that first step, you're already conquering your fears. Whether you pass or fail, the important thing is that you're trying — and that's how you grow."

Jhermi's journey is far from over. He is currently pursuing additional courses in professional management, with hopes of moving into a supervisory or managerial role soon. As someone who believes that education is a lifelong journey, he has no plans of stopping anytime soon. "Education doesn't stop at one certificate or one degree," Jhermi says. "The more you learn, the better you become. It's a learning of a lifetime, and continuing education has really changed my life in ways I never imagined."

Jhermi Mehta, Graduate
Certificate in Business Analysis
Certificate in Business Intelligence and Analytics