“Look to the right of you, now look to the left of you. One of those students won’t be there next semester.”
(Professor Peter Koppel during my first business class at the University of Ottawa in September 1997)
Some teachers are forgettable, some are memorable, but few are transformational. Peter Koppel was transformational. His role in my life as a business student, and as a man, was profound. Not only did he let me into the business program at the University of Ottawa one month before classes started, despite the fact I hadn’t applied, he gave me a scholarship. On the first day of classes, the above quote shocked me into the reality that I was starting a four year competition for the very spot I took for granted. Of course, it wasn’t a competition against the students to the right and left of me (my friends Kashef and Troy both graduated), it was me against myself. Let me tell you, I can be a surprisingly tough foe when it comes to avoiding laziness, apathy, and battling other demons.
Professor Koppel demanded perfection, and I felt obligated to live up to that standard. Out of all grades I earned during my years at the U of O, the ‘A’ I received in his class was the only one that mattered. It showed me that when I focus, apply myself, and aim for perfection, I can achieve my goal. Professor Koppel continued to offer me opportunities long after our one class together ended. Granted, I wasn’t one of his chosen ones, who he asked to be a Teaching Assistant, but I marked cases and exams for him for two years. During the course of my undergraduate studies, he also provided me pushes in the right direction, when things weren’t going smoothly.
Having procrastinated on an opportunity to take part in a video tribute to Professor Koppel, and not even having found the time to write him an email to thank him for everything he did for me, I find myself feeling incredibly guilty. He was a wonderful teacher, and an even better man. The education I received at the U of O has opened so many doors for me, and I’m proud to wear the gee-gee tattoo on my calf with “BComm” above it. Without Professor Koppel, it scares me to think how different and less-fulfilling my life would be.
Rest in Peace Peter. Thank you for giving me a chance.
