For many professionals looking to grow their careers through education, managing full-time studies alongside work, family, and personal commitments can seem overwhelming. Just ask Yorkville University graduates Dr. Sumbul Zahra and Lori Burger.

🎓 Dr. Sumbul Zahra successfully transitioned from a career as a general and emergency medicine physician to becoming a therapist after earning a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville U. 

“I worked most of my life as a doctor before coming to Canada. I could not get a training spot to help me get a licence to work in this country, but I knew that I wanted to continue in a profession best suited to my skills and nature,” says Dr. Zahra. “I feel a strong pull to help others.’” 

“I liked the concept of using my transferable skills as a physician—building rapport, empathy, history taking, and assessment,” she says. “I also recognize that I have a desire to heal; psychology fascinates me. What is more complex than the human mind?”

Yorkville U's counselling psychology programs cater to empathy-driven professionals aiming to become leaders in their fields. Today, Dr. Zahra runs a thriving practice in Toronto, helping patients navigate complex relational issues. 

“I could never have completed this degree if it had not been for Yorkville U’s flexible program,” says Dr. Zahra. “I got hired before my graduation and now work as a psychotherapist. If I had not chosen this program, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity.” 

🎓 Lori Burger is from the Nisga’a Nation, from the community of Gitlaxt’aamiks in British Columbia’s Nass Valley. Her Nisga’a name is Gyuwil Akhlkw, which means to persevere and continuously strive to achieve. 

In her current role as District Vice Principal of Indigenous Education, Equity, and Excellence at the Indigenous Education Department in School District 52, Prince Rupert, Lori, a Master of Education graduate, works to amplify Indigenous voices.

Having spent more than two decades in various educational roles, ranging from support worker to teacher to administrator, Lori decided to return to school to build her leadership capabilities while continuing to act as Vice Principal.  

“I love working in Indigenous-specific roles in education. This has been a focal point throughout my career. It’s so important to me that my children, grandchildren, and all our Indigenous relatives are seen, valued, and represented in schools,” says Burger. “I hope to continue in education to advocate for success for Indigenous learners and contribute to equitable systems for all learners.” 

With Yorkville U’s flexible scheduling and online courses, Lori was able to continue advancing her career without putting her life on hold. 

“I didn’t have the opportunity or ability to continue my education directly after high school as I was focused on parenting as a young mom. In the past, the only option for me was to utilize distance education while working and raising a family,” Burger adds. “As an educator, I became interested in the ways I could be the best educator possible and further my goals beyond becoming a teacher. A new role focused on Truth and Reconciliation inspired me to further my education and consider a leadership role.” 

Yorkville U’s commitment to accessibility and flexibility ensures that learners from all walks of life can pursue their educational and career goals. 

By offering adaptable course schedules, Yorkville U allows students to make a meaningful impact on their careers and communities without disrupting their everyday routines. 

“You owe it to yourself to broaden your mind and learn to be a better YOU. You will feel taller, smarter, sharper, and more fulfilled when you discover new horizons of knowledge and tap into talents you haven’t even used,” says Burger.

 At Yorkville University, education isn’t just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about integrating learning into the realities of real life. We’re here to empower learners to make the changes they seek; ensuring that every student can achieve their possible.