91ÅÝܽ

We recently caught up with Dr. Johnny Chan, a 2000 graduate of the School of Communication and now an Assistant Professor in the Department of Marketing, Strategy & Entrepreneurship at University Canada West. Hear from him in his own words as he reflects on his time at the School of Communication and shares how it helped shape his professional journey.

“Transforming ideas into impactful stories—whether in the boardroom or the classroom.�

After graduating from SFU’s School of Communication, I discovered my true passion in Marketing Communication. I eventually rose to the role of Marketing Communication Manager at a global exhibitions and conferences company, where I led B2B strategies and oversaw international campaigns. After eight fulfilling years in that space, I was drawn to academia, where I now teach and conduct research in Integrated Strategic Communication and Health Education.

My time at SFU laid the foundation for this multifaceted journey. The program’s unique blend of theory and hands-on learning equipped me with skills in impactful messaging, media literacy, and public speaking. But perhaps more importantly, it sparked the curiosity and creative thinking that still guide my work today—whether I’m mentoring students or leading a research project.

A particularly formative experience was Communications 320: Children, Media, and Culture, taught by Professor Stephen Kline. My team created both an animated cartoon and a documentary that explored media literacy among youth. This project introduced me to tools like Adobe Premiere and Photoshop, but more significantly, it honed my ability to think critically about media influence. Receiving a glowing reference from Professor Kline for our collaborative efforts remains a proud milestone.

In today’s content-saturated world, a Communication degree is more essential than ever. From AI to policy, marketing to education, communication professionals are at the heart of how we interpret and shape modern discourse. The skills we develop—critical thinking, storytelling, audience engagement—are timeless.

To students and recent grads, here’s my advice:

• Embrace the program’s interdisciplinary nature.
• Say yes to experiential opportunities like internships, co-ops, and research projects.
• Craft a portfolio that reflects your unique voice and journey.
• Seek mentors who can help you grow, challenge you, and open new doors.

·       And always stay curious—the tools may change, but your SFU foundation is built to last.

SFU’s School of Communication didn’t just prepare me for a career—it gave me the mindset and momentum to grow, pivot, and thrive across diverse fields.