Striking a balance between studies and social connections: Siddhanth Arikari

Siddhanth Arikari is graduating this June with a Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Studies. Siddhanth is co-valedictorian for the faculty of Arts and Humanities, sharing the honour with fellow grad Lauryn Mackenzie.

After graduation Siddhanth is going to follow his passion for fashion marketing and see where it takes him. As part of our series highlighting VIU’s 2022 valedictorians leading up to convocation on June 23 and 24, we caught up with Siddhanth to learn why he decided to attend VIU, some highlights from his time here and his proudest achievements.

Why did you choose VIU? 

I wanted a space to grow and experience the little things in life. Choosing VIU ensured I would get to live out of my bubble and grow in ways I wanted and did not anticipate at the same time.  

Can you share a highlight from your time at VIU? 

One memory that acted as an anchor for the times to come was a camping trip I went on with the ResLife team in 2019. There were 22 young teens/adults sharing a space for two days, sharing life experiences and making memories.  

What are you most proud of achieving since you began your studies? 

It was my goal to finish my education within my four years here. Keeping a steady balance between my education as well as co-curricular activities and my social life has been a delight and something I am very proud of myself for.  

What advice would you give students following a similar trajectory as yourself? 

Embrace this time. Your time at VIU is all you need to think about now. Life will do what life does, and when the time comes you will follow suit. For now, embrace this time.  

Can you give us three random facts about yourself?

• I’m great at knock-knock jokes.
• I’m a lousy texter.
• I have a great spice tolerance.