Bringing New Voices Into the Classroom: A Guest Lecture with Dr. Upasana Thakkar

Bringing new voices and perspectives into the classroom strengthens the learning experience for every student in the room. 

Recently, our Hospitality Management students welcomed Dr. Upasana Thakkar, Liberal Arts Instructor at Yorkville University and Spanish Language and Culture Instructor at the University of Northern British Columbia, for a guest lecture in their Business Communication course. 

A Guest Lecture in Business Communication 

Dr. Thakkar brought a unique vantage point to the session, drawing on her experience teaching liberal arts and language courses across two different academic institutions. Her lecture gave students a chance to think about communication not just as a workplace skill, but as something shaped by culture, language, and context, ideas that translate directly into the hospitality field they are preparing to enter. 

The Value of Outside Perspectives 

Inviting guest speakers into the classroom gives students the chance to connect with educators and professionals beyond WCC, while gaining insights from different experiences and backgrounds. Sessions like this one expose students to teaching styles and perspectives they would not otherwise encounter, helping them build a broader, more adaptable approach to communication before they step into their careers. 

Thank You, Dr. Thakkar 

Thank you, Dr. Thakkar, for taking the time to visit our students and be part of their learning journey. 

With thanks also to our faculty and team for supporting this session: 

Gurpal Dhaliwal · Rimpy Dhaliwal · Vandana Khetarpal · Daren Hancott · Raj Hundal · Karanvir Sekhon · Stephen A. · Brandie Y. · Dhananjay (DJ) Kshirsagar 

Western Community College believes that learning is strengthened when students engage with voices beyond the classroom. To learn more, visit wcc.ca. 

 

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