Alumni Spotlight: Rafeeq Kassam ‘22

1/23/2026

WPGA House: Cypress

Current Path: Senior at Bowdoin College

What are you up to now?

I’m still exploring! After a semester in Stockholm specializing in European politics, I’ve been diving into the intersection of tech and business. I recently worked for Kodex AI, a financial AI startup in Berlin, and this past summer I joined Bain & Co. I worked on S&OP modernization for a Fortune 50 auto OEM—which is just a fancy way of saying we helped a car company figure out exactly which cars to manufacture and how many.

Why Bowdoin?

I applied Early Decision because WPGA helped me realize I thrive in relational settings with small classes and close ties to professors. I wanted a well-rounded, holistic view of the world so I could analyze problems from multiple angles. A liberal arts degree focuses not so much on building hard skills, but on teaching you how to think critically and analytically.

The WPGA Influence

WPGA prepared me in countless ways. It taught me a great deal about the world through firsthand travel and nurtured a global mindset in me. Personally, it helped me become someone who loves learning from others and is good at building relationships. The most valuable skills I gained—public speaking and engaging in meaningful dialogue—came from my extensive time in Debate, Public Speaking, and MUN.

Favorite Memories & Mentors

Memories: Traveling to Tokyo in 2019 and the "ton of fun" I had running VYMUN in Whistler.
Mentors: Ms. Lee taught me to be articulate; Mr. Ito helped me actually like math; Mr. Bendl was outstanding in Global Studies; and Mr. Harding helped me see how our decisions impact the natural world.

The Quick Hits

WPGA in 3 words: Beacon of curiosity.
Fun Fact: I’m in a fantasy hockey league I take way too seriously and prioritize over actually important work...
Proudest Achievement: My ability to build relationships and partnerships, a skill WPGA nurtured.

Advice for the Pack

Enjoy it. This is a very special place and time. At WPGA, you are rightfully thinking about the future, but take a moment to breathe, look around, and enjoy the people you go to school with. I know many friends who would do anything for one more day with their friends at school.

A Wish for the Future

It is my sincere wish that WPGA continues to empower students to find what they love. I hope we always remember that a world-class education is not to be used solely for self-advancement, but for the betterment of humanity.

Back

Since 1996, West Point Grey Academy has gratefully resided on the Jericho Lands, the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and sə̓lílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation. Honoured to learn and play on these beautiful lands, we endeavour to be a leader in Indigenous education. In creating shared understanding and opportunities, we hope to help foster a more equitable society for all.