Meilanie (Mei) Sharpe-Berges first heard about Redeemer University at an American Christian music festival, but didn’t think much about it until months later. Even after she took a tour of campus, she was sure she was going to attend a large, public university. Though, after “a lot of initial resistance,” she felt God leading her toward applying. When it came time to submit final applications, Redeemer ended up being the only school she applied to. Looking back, she sees her undergraduate journey as “a blessing.”

Sharpe-Berges is graduating with a bachelor of business administration in business – accounting, and she says that one of the program’s highlights was the series of incredible guest speakers who shared their real experiences as leaders in the business world. She appreciated that she got to hear first-hand accounts of how their Christian perspective affected their decision making.

A quote from one of her business professors has always stuck with her: “Repetition plus repetition plus repetition equals reputation.” This perspective, that everyday actions and decisions matter, has been influential in helping her form her personal leadership style.

“It’s hard, but it’s worth it—putting people first—even if it’s going to cost you,” says Sharpe-Berges. “It’s not just about going with the flow. It’s about speaking up.”

It’s hard, but it’s worth it—putting people first—even if it’s going to cost you. It’s not just about going with the flow. It’s about speaking up.

She was an exceptionally involved student, having leadership roles in three student clubs throughout her time at Redeemer. Most notably, she was the co-chair of Rooted Worship, a club that hosts monthly worship nights for the Redeemer and Hamilton communities. One of her favourite parts was the debrief sessions where they would reflect on how the night went and hear testimonies of how God had moved. While participating in clubs, she drew upon lessons learned in the classroom.

“In my business courses, I learned a lot about leadership and how to be a servant leader, so I tried to apply that,” she says.

Sharpe-Berges participated in Redeemer’s co-operative education program and won the 2024 Co-op Student of the Year Award in recognition of her outstanding work experiences at DBK Accounting and Schep’s Bakeries. In her employer nomination from DBK Accounting, she is described as an “an exceptional team member who demonstrates integrity, accountability, and a deep commitment to both personal and organizational success.” In addition to this award, she has won multiple scholarships, including the Hamilton District CPA Association scholarship, and maintained an average of more than 85 per cent throughout her entire degree.

As she closes this chapter of her life, particular people and memories stand out: engaging classes with professor Susan Van Weelden, snowball fights, rock climbing with friends and even one stormy night when her and her dormmates sat on their balcony and cheered each time lightning struck. She will miss being part of such a giving community: “Seeing the way people serve others [at Redeemer] is really cool.”

While she learned many life lessons at Redeemer, one that sticks with her is that the Lord is in control. “I’ve learned at Redeemer what it means to trust God,” she says. Another important lesson was surrounding her identity; rather than being defined by her sin, she can be defined first and foremost as a child of God.

After graduation, I want to keep my hands open. God, open the right doors, and close the wrong ones.

For students trying to get the most out of their university experience, she has two pieces of advice. First, don’t let fear hold you back from taking risks, and second, root yourself in a local church. Though she plans to pursue further schooling, she is leaning on God to discern what’s next.

“After graduation, I want to keep my hands open. God, open the right doors, and close the wrong ones.”