Get to know...Megan Slifka

This month, we're excited to highlight Megan Slifka, Manager of the Undergraduate Office at the Alberta School of Business. We learn about her dream travel destination, hobbies and her best advice for new colleagues!

What’s a fun fact about you that most people wouldn’t know?

I spent three seasons playing basketball for Lakeland College, starting with the inaugural team in 2003-2004. While I once held the record for the most three-pointers made in both a game and a season, those stats have long since been eclipsed by more talented players.

What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend or day off?

For a perfect weekend, I need a mix of high energy and quiet time. This means watching my kids play hockey at the rink (though right now with my youngest there is less playing time and more time just laying on the ice), enjoying a relaxing date night with my husband, and getting some peaceful alone time browsing a local antique shop.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

I would choose Japan, hands down. My friends just got back from a trip with their family, and it looked absolutely amazing. I really want to go and experience everything they talked about, the people, the food, the history, and just getting a feel for the culture.

What’s a hobby or skill you’ve recently picked up (or would like to try)?

For some time now I have wanted to learn how to make my own stained glass pieces. The colors and patterns are always so beautiful and I think it would be a fun skill to learn.

Do you have a favorite meal or go-to comfort food?

Growing-up my mom made these sweet and sour chicken wings with spaghetti. Sounds a little unique, but it was my favorite meal, and to this day I still request it every once and a while.

What inspires or motivates you the most in your day-to-day life?

Having two young children drives me to be a strong and consistent role model every day. I strive to teach them to live by three simple rules: treat people well, be kind to yourself, and never stop working hard for what you believe in.

Can you share a bit about your role and what brought you to the Alberta School of Business?

My passion for higher education has defined my entire career. Returning to the U of A for this role, after eight years away, feels like a true alignment of purpose. This position allows me to combine two elements I love: the energy of teamwork, which has always been the highlight of my career, and the profound opportunity to directly support students. Drawing from my own pivotal undergraduate journey, I am driven to help ensure every undergraduate student achieves an exceptional experience with the Alberta School of Business.

What’s been your most memorable moment at the Alberta School of Business so far?

In my first two weeks in the role, I reconnected with a teammate from Lakeland College who is now a faculty member in the Alberta School of Business and I had the pleasure of attending a meeting with someone who was my undergraduate academic advisor when I was a student at the U of A. The sense of community is strong and I’m so happy to be back.

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with a new colleague joining the school?

Embrace the support offered by your new colleagues as this school is filled with people who genuinely want you to succeed. When someone offers help during your transition, take them up on it. That generosity is a genuine reflection of our community’s commitment to helping you settle in quickly.