The power of alumni generosity: Learnings from a co-op student

“Share This Giving Day, a co-op student shares his perspective and gratitude for the Waterloo community In the weeks leading up to Giving Day , Waterloo campus is buzzing with activity — and second‑year English student Gopal Karki is right in the middle of it. As a co‑op student on the Annual Giving team, he’s seen first-hand how much care goes into making Waterloo donors feel appreciated. From sorting weekly reports to preparing email lists and helping with thank you mailings, he says writing and attention to detail come up in almost everything he does. “This role lets me apply my English background every single day,” he says. This year, Karki is also playing a role in shaping the Giving Day experience for students and alumni. He appeared in promotional videos, tested out the new Giving Day game, and on Giving Day itself he’ll help at on-campus events and stage an Instagram takeover to spark some friendly competition among students. His favourite part so far? The collaboration. “So many people — including staff and other co-op students across campus — pitch in,” he says. “It’s great to see everyone work so closely together toward a single goal.” What has stood out for him during preparation is the focus on gratitude — something that runs both ways. “Each donation, whether it’s $10 or $10,000, is so appreciated by staff and students. I had no idea of the number of alumni who give because they’re proud of being Waterloo graduates and grateful for their education. They really want to give something back. It makes my work feel so meaningful.” As a future alum, he’s now more aware of the impact alumni generosity has on campus. “Alumni shape the university experience for students like me. Their commitment speaks to the pride and connection they feel to this place, as well as their desire to help students like me.” As someone who’s passionate about storytelling, cinema and screenwriting, Karki sees this experience as another kind of story — one written through generosity and community. After graduation, he hopes to find a career where writing and communication are central. But for now, he’s focused on helping make this year’s Giving Day an even bigger success than last year — one message, one moment and one story at a time. Double your impact Make a Giving Day gift Campus Community Share

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