From Busan to Toronto
Today we highlight Jasmin Slootweg (Class of 2022) and her experiences studying Computer Science and building a life in Toronto.
Outside the classroom, Jasmin has embraced the adventure of moving from South Korea to Canada, discovering new passions along the way. She recently completed her first half marathon with more than 20,000 runners through downtown Toronto’s skyscrapers and waterfront. She has also taken up snowboarding, finding a new thrill to replace the surfing and swimming she once enjoyed in Busan.
Reflecting on her biggest challenge, Jasmin acknowledges the difficulty of moving alone to a new country. “The learning curve was steep, but it taught me how capable I really am,” she says. “I made friendships in my first year that I still have today.”
Academic Achievements at York University
Now in her final year at York University, Jasmin is completing her Honours degree in Computer Science, a program in which she has thrived academically and professionally. During her time at York, she has taken on a wide range of opportunities—from interning at the Risk and Insurance Studies Centre to serving as a Campus Ambassador and Tour Guide, helping prospective students navigate university life.
Career and Research
Currently, Jasmin is working as a Software Developer in the Practices in Enabling Technology Laboratory, where she is collaborating on an innovative AR Sandbox project that simulates large-scale environmental data. Her current work focuses on wildfire data modeling across Canada, a project she describes as both meaningful and technically challenging.
As she prepares to graduate, Jasmin is already looking ahead to her next chapter: applying for graduate programs in business and technology fields. “I’m excited to see where this next stage takes me,” she shares.
Jasmin is also an enthusiastic participant in hackathons, where teams rapidly design, build, and pitch projects to solve real-world problems. “It’s an amazing opportunity to develop something new and meet incredible people,” she says.
Life Outside the Classroom
Outside of her studies and work, Jasmin has fully embraced Canadian life. She recently completed her first half marathon and has taken up snowboarding, discovering new passions beyond her previous love for surfing and swimming in Busan.
Her favorite BFS memory? Spirit Day—every year. From capture the flag and dodgeball to concession stands and the pep rally, these moments stand out as full of joy, sunshine, and school pride.
Advice for BFS Students
Her advice for current BFS students heading to university is simple:
“Don’t be afraid to jump into something completely new. It’s where you’ll learn the most, and where you’ll have the most fun.”
We congratulate Jasmin on her accomplishments and can’t wait to see where her curiosity and courage take her next.
