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Ray Yang

SFU Student Undergraduate
Beedie School of Business › Finance | Beedie School of Business › International Business
Career and Volunteer Services › Career Boost Program

Organization
Position Title
Especially for international students, it was an excellent opportunity to experience the Canadian workplace, where I learned to use effective communication strategies to communicate with my team members and how to be an efficient employee.
Experience Details
Semester
Summer
Year
2022
Skills
Reflection & Tips
Reflection

Hi everyone! My name is Ray, and I'm currently doing my 4th year at Beedie School. I want to share my experience in the Career Boost Program here. This Program aims to support international student settlement goals after graduation by providing focused career programming combined with paid part-time on-campus employment opportunities within SFU Student Services.

Get Started!

As the first cohort in the Career Boost Program, I have gained valuable experience. When I first saw the email about the Career Boost Program, I hesitated about whether to apply for it because I had not heard of this program at that time and did not have much work experience in Canada, so I was worried about being rejected. I clicked on the link and uploaded the file to give it a try. A week later, I was surprised to receive the approval email, and then I attended the Orientation Event, where I met the program coordinators. They were enthusiastic and patient in helping us with questions, and I made many friends there.

Be Ready!

Then I started my job applications. Make sure to check your resume and cover letter while you prepare. If you're unsure if your documents are up to standard, take advantage of the resources provided by SFU and the Career Boost Program, including resume and cover letter workshops and interview training. These will play an important role later in your job search. Especially in the interview process, prepare the questions you are likely to be asked and practice in advance. My advice is to practice the interview with a family member or friend.

Get in!

Then I went through several interviews and finally chose to work with the Surrey Student Services team. I gained valuable working experience and communication skills here. These experiences are just as meaningful as academic courses because they can teach you more about yourself and enrich your university experience. It will also give you a reflection on your future career and improve your future direction to decide what you want to do through continuous attempts. Especially for international students, it was an excellent opportunity to experience the Canadian workplace, where I learned to use effective communication strategies to communicate with my team members and how to be an efficient employee. My interpersonal relationship is the most valuable thing I got from the Career Boost Program. I have worked with fantastic managers and colleagues who support my needs and have been there to help solve any problems I may face. Thank them for giving me a glimpse of what it would be like to work in a Canadian office environment. I have many good memories of that place. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to go there, the best staff are waiting for you!

Reflection

Finally, I would like to share my job search advice. Never be afraid to apply. You will never have a chance if you don't give it a try. Try to put some pressure on yourself, turn the pressure into motivation, push yourself, and take the first step. The Career Boost Program is a great place to start your first Career!

I wish everyone the very best on your career journey!

Author

Ray Yang

SFU Student Undergraduate
Beedie School of Business › Finance | Beedie School of Business › International Business
Career and Volunteer Services › Career Boost Program
visibility  292
Oct 4, 2022