Imagine teaching MBA students in bustling Vancouver while raising a family in quiet Edmonton. Nima Nassirian, a professor at the University of Canada West, does just that – by flying in every week.
Nassirian cherishes his work, the enthusiastic students, and the supportive faculty. But Vancouver’s housing costs meant uprooting his family wasn’t an option. Their Edmonton home offered space, affordability, and proximity to extended family – a “beautiful life” he couldn’t sacrifice.
So, he found a unique solution: fly in for work. He spends three days in Edmonton, and four in Vancouver, utilizing budget airlines and renting a small apartment. While unconventional, it’s cheaper than Vancouver housing, even with the flight and rental costs.
The sacrifice? Being away from family. But Nassirian prioritizes their Edmonton life and sees this as the best option for both career and family. He uses his Vancouver time for focused work, knowing he’ll be back with them soon.
Nassirian’s story isn’t unique. “Super commuter” Tim Chen, a UBC student, flies from Calgary to Vancouver for similar reasons. Nassirian even wonders if Edmonton’s oil industry culture, accustomed to workers flying in for extended periods, has normalized this lifestyle there.
Ultimately, Nassirian found a way to balance his dream job with his family’s well-being. He may fly in, but his dedication to both his career and family remains grounded.
