LOVEPREET GILL

What brought you to KPU and your program of study?

I first attended Kwantlen Polytechnic University when it was still known as Kwantlen University College. Shortly after graduating from high school, I enrolled in the Health Unit Coordinator program. After completing the program, I began my healthcare career as a unit clerk, working on a variety of hospital units. While covering a relief position on a psychiatric unit, I discovered a passion for mental health and psychiatric nursing, which motivated me to return to Kwantlen and complete the Psychiatric Nursing program.

As my career progressed as an emergency psychiatric nurse, I decided to further expand my nursing knowledge and opportunities by returning to Kwantlen to complete a post-baccalaureate Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN). I later earned my Master’s degree in Health Leadership and Policy from the University of British Columbia.

Over the past 15 years, I have worked in a variety of clinical, leadership, and academic roles across healthcare settings and universities. Most recently, I served as an Interim Manager, where I developed valuable leadership experience overseeing operations, supporting staff, and helping ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care.

Can you briefly describe your current position and your main day to day responsibilities?

My current role is Program Coordinator in an acute hospital setting. The Program Coordinator role combines clinical leadership with operational oversight to support the delivery of coordinated, high-quality, and accessible care within a designated program area. It involves overseeing care processes, providing clinical consultation, and ensuring services are delivered efficiently and to established standards. The position also includes supervising, hiring, and recruiting staff, supporting their development through training and performance evaluation, and contributing to policy and quality improvement initiatives. In addition, the Coordinator collaborates with multidisciplinary teams and community partners to strengthen service delivery and outcomes.

Which skills, knowledge, or experiences from KPU have been most valuable in your career so far?

I was fortunate to have exceptional teachers and instructors who served as mentors throughout my educational journey. Their guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback helped shape my career path and inspired me to continue pursuing my goals. I also have fond memories of attending awards nights and being recognized with scholarships and bursaries, which provided valuable financial support and helped make my education more accessible.

What advice would you give current KPU students who want to build a successful career after graduation?

The advice I would give to current students, or those considering further education, is to start wherever you are. Whether it’s a one-year certificate, a diploma, or a degree, the most important step is simply getting started. Your educational journey does not have to follow a straight path, and you can continue building on your credentials over time.

I began with a certificate program, then completed a bachelor’s degree, followed by a second bachelor’s degree, and eventually a master’s degree. Each step opened new opportunities and helped me grow both personally and professionally. Learning is a lifelong journey, and there is always room to continue advancing, who knows, perhaps a PhD is in my future one day as well.

Also, seek out instructors and mentors whose values, leadership, and approach to learning resonate with you. Learn from their experiences, seek their guidance, and allow their mentorship to help shape your own personal and professional journey.