Blogs

Second-year engineering student Danielle Arciaga faces a tough decision once she graduates from Simon Fraser University—which emerging green industry should she choose: clean tech or smart cities?

“Business courses helped me with workplace etiquette, while Communication courses allowed me to develop different perspectives.” Human Resources student Tabraiz reveals the hidden benefits of applying to jobs outside of your major and gaining a unique, mix-matched skillset.

“Should I ask my boss what to do, or am I being annoying and asking them too many questions?” Leo emphasizes the importance of establishing a clear line of communication with your supervisor and not being afraid to ask for clarification.

Ever wondered what your interviewers were thinking? Amanda takes us behind the scenes of an interview process and shares how to prepare for trick questions, ways to leave a strong first impression and techniques for highlighting skills and experience. 

“Co-op is the tricycle of professional life: you’re getting rewarded and gaining vital skills, but you’re supported, have a chance to experience all aspects of your role, and have time to figure out what works for you and what you’re ready for. There is no better way to prepare for life after university." Read about Monique's co-op experience here! 

When you go from smooth sailing to being submerged beneath a tidal wave of work, it can be easy to feel a little lost at sea. Before jumping overboard, consider Sabrina's tips for tackling a stormy situation and arriving safely to shore. 

Are you thinking of studying in Canada? Are you about to arrive or have recently landed? Make the most of your experience with these tips for studying abroad.

"Discomfort isn't bad - it's just stepping outside of your comfort zone." From embracing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, to seeking out constructive feedback, Magali offers ways to survive and succeed in a new work environment.  

"When you work at a start-up, literally anything can happen." Anmol takes us into a world where content is born out of chaos, and the landscape is dynamic, creative and challenging.  Becoming an integral part of a new company and seeing your creations make an impact can be one of the most rewarding experiences.  

Mysteries, money management and meditation: how do you spend your commute? Sarah recommends ways to make that daily bus ride feel a little shorter and add extra pep to your work morning. 

"Can an office be "too quiet"? Is that even a thing?" Certified extrovert Sonya shares advice for adjusting to a new workplace and explains how to conduct a thorough 'me-search'.  

My university experience has been a roller coaster to say the least. From moving to a brand-new city without knowing anyone to embarking on multiple co-ops in finance related roles, I discovered who I wanted to become and the path I needed to take to get there.

Read on to learn about Jacky's valuable co-op experience that transformed his self-doubt into professional development at Telus!

So maybe you did not land your dream co-op job.  Don't despair - Rutendo explains how an unexpected position might just be a huge blessing in disguise.  

Mechatronic Systems Engineering student, Ryan Threlfall travelled across the world to build a sleep-wearable that will help millions of habitual snorers. 

Mechatronic Systems Engineering student Guninder Malhi, shares how experience gained through an SFU research position allowed him to build the skills necessary to kick start a career. 

How do you want to live at the end of your life? Seerit Hara shares her interview with her co-op supervisor at Langley Memorial Hospital about the importance of advance care planning. 

Engaging with our communities provides opportunities to connect, grow, and give back. Jasleen shares how her co-op with the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue lived up to SFU's reputation as Canada's most engaged university. 

Do you look into the future and see a thousand different paths after graduation? Juliette reflects on her time at Careers in Communications and reveals the benefits of figuring out what you hate before deciding what you love.  

Tony Cheng's experience with CanCap Pharmaceutical served as a reminder that personal growth is often about taking initiative, having gratitude, and getting out of your comfort zone. 

Creativity doesn't stop in the world of a technical writer.  Emily reveals how writing "is often much more than imagery and metaphors" and that stepping out of your comfort zone might just reveal a whole new path.  

Here are some tips on how to get some physical activity in while at the Burnaby, Vancouver, or Surrey campus.

Attending a Conference can be a remarkable experience- that is if you plan to make it that way.  Ali shares six tips to prepare for a conference so you can make sure it’s worth your while.

Are you interested in pursuing a career in health care? Kelly looks into how volunteering can help get you there!

You start a new job next week, but you have no idea what to wear, and what does business casual mean anyway? Pretty sure that's an oxymoron. While I can't take you shopping, I can help you decide what's appropriate - and what's not.

The end of the Fall semester, and 2012, is coming to a close. Some people believe in making new years’ resolutions with goals of bettering themselves, while some people are content with just letting the new year roll in. Instead of focusing on making future goals, why not reflect on everything that you have done this year?

Mimi's co-op as a UX Designer at the City of Surrey provided opportunities to improve user experience by creating digital solutions for city services through user-centered design. Read her story, here. 

"Have you ever asked yourself these questions – Why should I volunteer? Is stepping out of my comfort zone really going to benefit me?  If you have, then you are on the right page!"

There are a lot of things your international student friends have never told you. From depression to pressure to stereotypes -  life isn't always easy when you are studying abroad. Read an international students take on life overseas. 

When Taylor Nguyen imagined working at a large bank, she pictured cubicles, formal attire, and stacks of documents. What she found instead were opportunities to learn and create in a fun and collaborative environment.