Navid Saadati

My name is Navid Saadati and I’m in my fourth year at the University of Victoria where I’m studying economics with a minor in business. The Pacific Northwest has been home to me my whole life, and I’m eager to learn more about my home, and my neighbours across the border.

I’m lucky to have plenty of family in the United States which has allowed me to take lots of trips to America where I’ve been able to really appreciate the cities, nature, people, and culture the country has to offer. I feel very lucky to have spent so much time in both Canada and America, and I believe it has really helped mould my views to become both more comprehensive and inclusive.

In my studies at UVic I have learned about and taken an interest in global economics, business, and international politics. From these topics I have acquired the belief that increased camaraderie, understanding, and conversation between Americans and Canadian can benefit all of us both economically, but also by growing our network of friends and connections which can truly help day-to-day Canadians and Americans learn and appreciate more about each other.

I’m eager to educate myself deeper on how both Canadian and American Pacific Northwesterners can work towards better respecting and living in unison with our natural habitat and the Indigenous Nations who have resided in this region for thousands of years. It is important for me to recognize and respect the lands of the people who have inhabited this region and have maintained such beautiful and rich lands that we all call home today.

I’m very pleased and honoured to be able to meet all of you and learn through the Corbett Virtual Exchange Program this term!

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The Corbett British Columbia-Washington International Exchange Program Fund provides an opportunity for undergraduate students at the University of Washington to spend two semesters at the University of British Columbia or University of Victoria; and for students from the University of British Columbia and University of Victoria to spend three quarters at the University of Washington.