Charting a new course: A student-athlete’s path to finance at Gustavson

By Jennifer Ivanov

Jack DesBrisay took an unconventional path to complete his Bachelor of Commerce degree. He began the program focused on athletics, but over time discovered that finance was where he wanted to build his career. 

Gustavson’s specialized programs, like the Applied Investment Management Course (AIMC) and the Applied Portfolio Management Program (APMP) challenged him to think critically, apply his knowledge in real-world contexts, and solidify his interest in the field.

By taking full advantage of the business school’s co-op program, the 23-year-old extended his studies to complete additional work terms, building 20 months of real-world experience. Along the way, he developed the practical skills, perspective, and professional confidence that define a Gustavson education.

What made you choose the BCom program?

I’ve always been interested in a career in business, but I wasn’t completely sure where that path would take me until I arrived at Gustavson. I started in 2020 as a member of the varsity rowing team, and for my first two years, rowing was a major focus alongside my studies.

As I progressed through the program, I was exposed to different areas of business, and I found myself increasingly drawn to finance. That interest really took shape in my second year, when I suffered a patellar tendon injury and had to step away from rowing. While it was a difficult transition, it gave me the opportunity to fully focus on my studies and explore my interest in finance.

What was your path through the program?

The benefit of the BCom program and the way it’s structured is that it gives you a lot of flexibility in the first two years to pursue different options. You can take a variety of courses across campus to see where your interests lie. 

I did a couple of co-ops in my third year, which helped spark my interest in applying for AIMC. One was at a local accounting firm, and in the following semester, I worked as a research assistant.  I joined the AIMC shortly after. It was an awesome program, super beneficial to my learning, and it really helped solidify my interest in finance. After finishing the course, I did two co-op terms at BCI on their private debt and public equities teams and then did two more co-op terms in investment banking at National Bank in Toronto. I also took advantage of the exchange opportunities offered through Gustavson, which are great learning experiences and very different from the co-ops. I studied at Bocconi University in Milan; it was great to immerse myself in the language and culture of another country. 

What impact have the hands-on learning opportunities had on you?

I think they were incredibly important. The co-op opportunities really helped form my decision about the career I wanted to pursue. They gave me the chance to learn outside of the classroom and see how things function in a real workplace. You pick up on so many things in the workplace that aren’t necessarily taught in the classroom, like different work styles and cultures.

I ended up doing five co-ops, two more than required, because I wanted to add relevant experiences to my resume. There’s really no other time in your life when you get to try different jobs every four months and see what you like. I tried accounting, public equities and investment banking but ultimately chose to start my career in private credit. The co-op experiences really helped me make my decision.

Overall it was super impactful, and I think it made me more employable because I already had a broad range of experience.

Did you have a favourite class or instructor?

The AIMC program was definitely my favourite. The instructor, Saurabh Suryavanshi, challenged the class on the very first day. His teaching style reminded me of what I responded well to in rowing, he was direct, set a high bar and expected you to meet it.  I remember it was the first time I felt competitive about something since I stopped rowing. That class was also the catalyst that drove me to do well in school.

What did receiving the AIMC scholarship mean to you?

It was an honour to receive the Saurabh Suryavanshi Award in AIMC, but the real benefit was everything I learned in his class. I enjoyed it so much that I didn’t view assignments as chores. I got things done right away because I really enjoyed doing the work. I think this was key to my success; the course is challenging, but students who bring a strong work ethic and genuine interest in the material are the ones who will succeed.

How would you say Gustavson helped shape your view of business?

Gustavson helped shape my view of business by emphasizing the importance of sustainability. Throughout the program, there was a consistent focus on responsible business practices, which was also emphasized in the APMP, where we incorporated ESG analysis into real-world investment decisions. It reshaped how I think about business and its role in creating a more sustainable future.

What advice do you have for students entering the BCom program?

I would say be willing to take risks and try something new. Take advantage of the exchange program to travel to a new continent, try a co-op in a new city, sign up for an intramural team, start a new club on campus, and apply for that program you didn't think you'd get into. Lean into the opportunities UVic has to offer.

What are your plans after graduation?

I graduate this spring (2026) and will begin working with BCI’s private debt team in April. Thanks to the co-op opportunities, I feel like I already have 20 months of real-world experience. I know I’ll learn a lot when I start my job, but I'm not nearly as nervous as I think I would be if I didn't already know what it’s like to work in those kinds of environments. 

I’m excited to start my career at BCI in an area I’m genuinely interested in and grateful to have the opportunity to stay in my hometown of Victoria. 

What makes Gustavson so special?

I’d say it’s the people. There are so many amazing professors at Gustavson who take the time to get to know their students. But it’s really the entire community; administrators are always there to help students navigate their courses and program paths, and they’re genuinely excited to hear about career updates and life after graduation.

As you move through the business program, the classes get a bit smaller and you’re with the same group of people every day. You really get to know one another. I’ve formed some great friendships with people I met through the program.