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Meet Our Students: Celebrating Success Stories – Ismael Sayal

By Diana Corredor
In our Meet Our Students: Celebrating Success Stories series, we continue to highlight the inspiring journeys of students who embody resilience, passion, and the transformative power of education. This edition features Ismael Sayal, a third-year student in the Bachelor of Management and Organizational Studies (BMOS) program, specializing in Legal Studies.

“I have always been interested in the systems that influence our world and how people engage with laws, organizations, and structures,” Sayal shares. Drawn to the BMOS program for its unique blend of structure and adaptability, he found in Legal Studies an ideal intersection of business, law, and society. The program has not only challenged him intellectually but has also provided a space to explore how he fits into a complex and ever-evolving world.

Sayal’s journey is marked by both academic growth and personal discovery. As a student with Autism, he has found deep value in the program’s inclusive and flexible approach to learning. “I’ve learned how to play to my strengths and stand up for myself,” he explains. “The faculty’s encouragement to see diversity as a strength made me feel empowered and included.”

A key element in Sayal’s success has been the support he received through campus resources. Accessible Education played a central role in helping him transition into university life, offering personalized academic accommodations and boosting his confidence. “They reminded me I was not alone,” he reflects. Academic advising and career services also helped him navigate choices and discover opportunities that aligned with his goals.

Through his time in the Faculty of Social Science, Sayal has developed critical skills—from time management and communication to self-advocacy and resilience. “I wasn’t sure how I would do academically, socially, or emotionally when I started,” he admits. “But with the right resources, an accessible learning environment, and a supportive department, I’ve grown into someone who is more confident in my identity and abilities.”

One of Sayal’s proudest accomplishments has been learning how to navigate university life as an autistic student and building the confidence to thrive—academically and personally. He acknowledges the challenges that come with transitioning from high school to university, but wants other students to know they’re not alone. “There is space for you in this faculty, whether you're neurodivergent or still figuring out your path.”

His message to future students is clear: “Be willing to try new things, meet new people, and discover more about yourself. You don’t have to have it all figured out—Western provides the resources to help you find your strengths along the way.”

Celebrate Ismael Sayal’s inspiring journey with us and discover how the Faculty of Social Science at Western University empowers students from all walks of life to grow, succeed, and make their mark.

If you want to share your own story or know someone who should be featured, please reach out to us!