Blogs

You know when you go to another country on vacation and everyone is speaking a different language? That’s the way it kind of feels walking into a new job and you are by far the youngest in the room. Everyone seems so educated, knowledgeable and probably old enough to be your parents. But don’t worry - I’ve (kind of) successfully learned how to navigate this intimidating world of adults and I’m here to share my awkward experiences to minimize yours.

If you ever wondered what it was like working at a small to a mid-size accounting firm, read on for a few insights from my first co-op work term!

Is working in an unfamiliar industry scary to you? Don’t know what to prepare before working in a co-op? Read on to find out more.

For three years I worked part-time at TD Canada Trust as a customer service representative and eventually a personal banking associate.

"I cried the day I heard that I had won the CBC Radio Peter Gzowski Internship" — Sonya shares her story on how she ended up being an intern at CBC Radio and why it's so important to not give up on your dreams. 

What many students may not know is that it can be very disheartening to apply for jobs at first. You may not receive many responses. It feels almost as if all the positions you want have already been filled. 

When I first started at PCL as an Administrative Student, I was slightly disappointed.

Procrastination became a close friend of mine and by the end of the semester, I was burnt out but relieved that it was all over. Then the cycle would repeat itself for another four months.

Curious how to run social media for a company out of your expertise? Take a look at Cristyn's article, where she reveals the best approaches to social media management and get ready to work in the field!

“When life knocks you down, try to land on your back. Because if you can look up, you can get up. Let your reason get you back up” - Les Brown

Getting Through the First Month of Your Co-op: How do you prepare for a new work term? And how do you survive the first month in a new co-op position? Business Major Anca Zgreaban shares five tips for easing smoothly from a study semester into a working term.

Working in a technological industry as a non-tech student is much more exciting as you might have thought of it. Hilda shares her experience and debunks three myths about this niche.

If you think that working for a corporation is incredibly dull in terms of social connections, take a look at Leo's article, where he busts this myth!

Have you ever felt that you are not qualified enough for a job you just got? Privilege explains why it is more than alright to be a newbie and what you should understand about your position to take the best from your co-op term.

Cory Henderson has been interested in politics since she was a young girl. She was a Grade 10 student in the French immersion program when a representative from Simon Fraser University’s French Cohort Program (FCP) visited her school in Penticton, B.C. 

After listening to the presentation, Cory was so sure that SFU was the place for her that she didn’t apply to any other universities. Cory graduated from the FCP, a bilingual program in public and international affairs, in Summer 2019 with a major in Political Science (Honours), and an extended minor in French. Many factors played a role in getting her to that point, but the biggest one was having a sense of community at SFU. Her university journey was challenging, but she was not without support. 

Are you wondering what skills you might need for a job in CMNS? Co-op student Amy unpacks five essential skills for your future CMNS career you might want to develop.

Taking steps to prioritize your financial wellness can set you up for better overall wellness.

Classes only make up half of the university experience; the rest is what you make of it.” Join Emily as she depicts her experience outside of the classroom with co-op, study abroad, and semester in dialogue.

Is messing up at work one of your greatest fears that keeps you up at night? Taylor talks about how to deal with mistakes in the workplace. The end of the world can eventually turn into a valuable experience worthy of mentioning in your resume.

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'.