Law & Business student Emilija Radovanovic wins TMU Gold Medal

The Toronto Metropolitan University Gold Medal is the university’s highest honour, awarded to students with outstanding academic achievement and exceptional involvement in the university, their profession, and their community. This year’s winner is Law and Business student Ema Radovanovic. 

During her education, Ema combined her leadership skills and care for others in her extracurricular activities. As the President of the Law and Business Student Association (LBSA), she took the organization to new heights by strengthening connections between students, faculty, alumni and the department advisory council.  As a TedPack Leader and Mentor, Fit for Business mentor, member of the Toronto Metropolitan Entrepreneurship Association, teaching assistant as well as an Academic Peer Helper, she inspired her peers towards realizing their potential for academic and professional excellence – acts which are all characteristic of her passion for law and community.

Here is what she had to say about her time at TMU, receiving the award and her future plans:

What does receiving the Gold Medal mean to you?

Receiving the TMU Gold Medal and the Board of Governors Leadership Award and Medal is profoundly meaningful to me. These awards reflect the care, passion, dedication and hard work I have poured into my time at the Ted Rogers School and TMU. I am truly honoured to have my contributions recognized in such a distinguished way and to see my commitment materialized into something tangible that I will carry with me for years to come. 

Furthermore, these awards are not only personal milestones, but are also a testament to the collective effort of everyone who has been part of my journey: faculty who have mentored me, peers with whom I worked and collaborated, and family and friends who have supported me along the way.

What advice would you give students entering their first year?

I would advise first-year students to seize every opportunity that comes their way, especially if it challenges them to step out of their comfort zone. This was my guiding “motto” throughout the past four years. When I started university, my focus was heavily directed toward academic achievement and preparing for law school. However, after witnessing the highly engaged and active student network at the Ted Rogers School and TMU, I quickly realized how equally important it is to be involved beyond the classroom. As such, I encourage first-year students to keep an open mind and not be afraid to explore paths that may not have been part of their original plan because you never know where they might lead.

Do you have any favourite classes/teachers, and what made them stand out?

While I have had the privilege of learning from many excellent professors during my undergraduate studies, a few courses and instructors had a particularly profound impact on me. One was Government Regulation of Business (LAW 534), taught by Dr. Gil Lan. His engaging teaching style and passion for the subject left a lasting impression on me. Dr. Lan later became a valued mentor and a tremendous support during my time as LBSA President, for which I remain sincerely grateful. 

Another standout course was Securities Law (LAW 605), taught by Professor André Serero.  Professor Serero’s enthusiasm for the course content was evident in each lecture, and his ability to create an interactive learning environment made the course a highlight of my senior year and time in the Law and Business program. 

Outside the traditional classroom setting, I took part in Ted Rogers School’s Law & Business Clinic (LAW 68A/B) under the guidance of Professor Omar Ha-Redeye. In the clinic, I participated in hands-on legal work, serving a client on a pro bono basis under the supervision of practicing lawyers. This experience is one that I will always cherish, as it affirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in law. 

How did Ted Roger School and TMU support you during your time here?

Throughout my undergraduate studies, I consistently felt not only supported but also truly welcomed by the communities at the Ted Rogers School and TMU. I had exceptional faculty mentors: Dr. Gil Lan, Dr. Daniele Bertolini and Professor Garrett MacSweeney, to name a few. Being more than mentors, these professors were a source of consistent encouragement and support. 

The leadership opportunities available to me at the Ted Rogers School and TMU also contributed to my personal and professional growth. As LBSA President, I worked alongside passionate, like-minded peers to create a lasting impact. Together, we enhanced the sense of community for those in our program and engaged more students in extracurricular activities across campus. Equally rewarding was my work with the school’s Program Advising and Student Success (PASS) Office, where I tutored students in courses that I had previously taken. This role enriched my own understanding of the courses I was tutoring and allowed me to provide the kind of support I looked for as a student. 

In every respect, the Ted Rogers School and TMU gave me far more than an education. I am fortunate to have discovered the network, mentorship and opportunities available here. They have shaped the values I hold and the sense of community I appreciate, both of which will stay with me long after graduation.

What has been your proudest accomplishment?

Serving as the LBSA President, the official course union for my major, was my proudest accomplishment in my undergraduate studies. This achievement represents more than just a leadership role; it symbolizes perseverance and a commitment to never giving up. In my first year, I applied to join the course union as an Associate, the entry-level position in the organization. Despite my best efforts and enthusiasm, my application was unsuccessful. However, I did not view the rejection as a setback or a dead end but rather as an opportunity for redirection. 

While still set on making my mark through the LBSA, I became involved with other student groups and developed the skills and experience necessary to reapply with a stronger portfolio. In my third year, I secured an executive position in the course union. After a successful term, I was elected by my peers to serve as LBSA’s President for the 2024/2025 academic year. 

I often share this story with fellow students as a reminder that rejection is not the end of a journey; it can be the beginning of a more fulfilling one. This experience showed me that the path that challenges us most is the one that ultimately shapes us into who we are meant to become.

What are your future plans?

In the fall, I will be attending the University of Toronto Faculty of Law as a member of the Class of 2028. Building on my undergraduate background in business, I intend to pursue a career in corporate law. I look forward to staying connected with both the Ted Rogers School and TMU communities as I advance my career in the legal field.