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Scroll through and catch up on the latest from the SFU OLC. You're bound to find a fresh new perspective, the most current advice, and recently published stories that are sure to inspire you. Content is created by the SFU community.

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Changing Times: Stories to Inspire Hope and Resilience

 

Kaylla
Staying Productive While Working Remotely for a Health Authority

Working from home is a common reality for many Co-op students in the past year. Working from home while working for a Health Authority in the thick of the pandemic is a tremendous experience Kaylla went through last year. Take a look at how she learned to stay productive in these uncertain times.

The Latest

 

a woman smiling at the paper she's holding
Blog
How-To Succeed & Have Fun On the Job

Natalie wanted nothing more than to do well at her first co-op placement. Here are some things she picked up to make her work term fun and more successful! 

the back of two women staring at a laptop screen
Blog
What to Expect During a Site Visit

I had no idea what to expect for my first co-op site visit, did you? In this blog post, I reflect back on what happened during my first site visit, to help prepare you for what might happen at yours!

A photo of Mike with his colleagues
Blog
Want to Work for the Non-Profit Sector? 4 Reasons Why You Should!

People often overlook the non-profit sector, as an option to carve out a career, yet the sector can offer a lot of rewarding opportunities that may not be available in the public or private sector.

A photo of a man standing in the middle of a field
Blog
5 Reasons Why Volunteering is Splendid and How it Can Reverse the Signs of Aging.

Find out the 5 reasons Alex has for why volunteering is splendid! Figure out ways to get great experience and skills for your resume that won't cost you a dime. Also discover how volunteering can reverse the signs of aging...

Letter with a pen
Blog
3 Mistakes & 3 Tips - Cover Letters

It's been an hour, and there's nothing but a blank screen staring back at you. The job posting closes in another couple hours, and you need to submit a cover letter to go with your resume. But where oh where do you start? Here's 3 things to avoid, and 3 tips for writing your next cover letter!

Diary of a Marketing Co-op: Stand Your Ground
Blog
Stand Your Ground

In this segment of Diary of a Marketing Co-op, I look back at the need to be assertive to meet never-ending deadlines and how to balance this with the ability to know when to go with the flow.

Bull attacks
Blog
OLE! Targeting Resumes and Cover Letters

This is the time to grab the bull by its horn.  Learn to target your resume and cover letter to win your dream job.   

person using apple pen to write on ipad
Blog
Three Mistakes and Three Tips: Cover Letters

It's been an hour, and there's nothing but a blank screen staring back at you. The job posting closes in another couple hours, and you need to submit a cover letter to go with your resume. But where oh where do you start? Here's 3 things to avoid, and 3 tips for writing your next cover letter!

A photo of a studio
Blog
Quarter-Life Crisis: It's Real

It's no secret that young people entering the workforce today are facing very different challenges than generations past. "Quarter-life crisis" emerged to describe the experiences many young people were going through as they struggled to establish themselves in adulthood. But what does this phrase really mean?

Graduation ceremony
Blog
Convocation! 3 Things to Think About When Graduating

The world is your oyster. How many times have you heard that already? In two days, you will have walked across that stage with your parchment in hand: a result of your four to five (or more) years of hard work. While we will leave all the emotional, heartfelt speeches to the esteemed speakers on stage, we decided to write a congratulatory and advice piece for those that will be receiving their diverse degrees, as well for students who will be graduating in the near future.

Business man with his arms up looking at the sky
Blog
Business Career Management Corner: Professionalism in the Workplace

Landing the job is only the first step. Once you arrive for work you not only need to make a good first impression, but create a lasting professional reputation.

three people wearing professional attire standing side by side
Blog
5 Tips for Making a Successful Transition from School to Work

Students are often hoping to quickly graduate and find the job of their dreams, but school and work can be extremely different and the gap can be fairly difficult for some to adapt to. Here are five tips to help you prepare for the work force! 

a closeup of a woman concentrating in her work space
Blog
The Office Culture: What School Doesn’t Prepare You For

There are many things school doesn't teach you about working in a corporate environment. Check out 3 areas Natalie wants you to pay attention to when you are on your job and tips to help you improve your work performance.

Image of the Author
Blog
Top Ten Tips for Co-op Work Term Success

John Grant, an SFU Communication Co-op Alumus has five work term experiences in his portfolio and shares his top ten tips for completing a successful and fulfilling Co-op work term.

a girl networking with her colleagues
Blog
Top Tips for Workplace Transition and Performance

Are you starting your first co-op work term soon? Here are some top tips to help you transition from school to work smoothly and successfully and improve your work performance and professionalism.

A patterned background of Adobe's symbol
Blog
Conquering my Fears of the Adobe Creative Suite

Finding it hard to find a co-op job that doesn't require any web or design skills?  Read on if you're interested in learning how this co-op student conquered her fears and learned how to make the most of her work term using the design skills she learned in just a few short weeks! 

SFPIRG Logo
Blog
Decolonization Workshop Series

SFPIRG is offering a series of Decolonization Workshops this fall: Decolonization 101, Beyond Residential Schools, Resistance and Resiliance in BC and Matrilinealism  The workshops are open for anyone who is interested. 

picture of the community hall
Blog
Citizenship, Business and First Nations: Finding a Way Forward

Net Impact as part of their mission statement as emerging business leaders is to make a positive environmental, social and economic impact in the Vancouver community by advocating responsible and sustainable business practices.

Dennis as a freshman with his friends
Blog
Must-know Tips For A University Freshman | Part Two

Making the transition from high school to university can be exciting but difficult, check out some useful tips and advice from a senior student so you can make the most out of your first year at SFU!

workplace environment with a bunch of people sharing a work space
Blog
Natalie's First Day at Allied Vision Technologies

Are you starting your first day at work soon? Getting anxious because you don't know what to expect? Read on to learn more about Natalie's experience and her tips on making the most out of your first day.

one person at the head of a table leading a meeting with 7 other members
Blog
Top Ten Ways to Wow Your Boss

You impressed your boss during your job interview, but now it’s time to really show what you are capable of. A good business relationship with your boss is one of the components of a positive work experience. Here are the top tens ways to dazzle your new employer.

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Blog
First Nations Student Association at SFU Orienatation

The First Nations Student Association was part of the Orientation for the first time ever in the history of SFU this year a great step in the right direction for not only the FNSA but the SFU Orientation program as well.

UNBC logo
Blog
UNBC to Lead National Urban Aboriginal Knowledge Network in Western Canada

The University of Northern British Columbia is partnering with the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC), government ministries, and regional research centres across Canada to develop the Urban Aboriginal Knowledge Network (UAKN) and research the policies and issues that affect Canada’s city-dwelling aboriginal population.

Someone singing
Blog
Coast Salish Singing

Karen went to the Coast Salish singing workshop for several reasons. First she was aboriginal, new to SFU and thought it would be fun. Also she would be able to meet some other aboriginal students. Find out more about Coast Salish Singing...

A poster of the Big Fair
Blog
Do's and Don'ts for the Big Fair

Check out this list of "do and don't" tips for the upcoming SFU Big Fair!

Dennis as a freshman with his friends
Blog
Must-know Tips For A University Freshman | Part One

Making the transition from high school to university can be exciting but difficult, check out some useful tips and advice from a senior student so you can make the most out of your first year at SFU!

Elizabeth and coworker smiling beside each other
Blog
Seeking Approval

The latest entry of the Diary of a Marketing Co-op series looks at the need and importance of aquiring endless rounds of approvals, and what it can teach you.

Two women shaking hands
Blog
Top Ten: Best Ways to Make a GREAT Impression

The Co-op advisors at SFU are in the unique position of hearing from both employers and students about what makes a successful work term. Paulette Johnston has a list of ten simple ways to get off on the right foot.

out of focus image of a binder and man in the background with the tagline: .... first week on the job?
Blog
What To Do: Your First Week On the Job

You’ve applied for the job, gone through the interview, been selected, and now you’re ready to begin your first week on the job! But are you? Read John's tips on how to prepare for your first weeks on the job!

People shaking hands
Blog
Top Ten: Best Ways to Make a GREAT Impression

The Co-op advisors at SFU are in the unique position of hearing from both employers and students about what makes a successful work term. Paulette Johnston has a list of ten simple ways to get off on the right foot.

jason looking up at the sky
Blog
Why Absurd And Illogical Ideas Matter

Einstein glorified human experience as the ultimate knowledge for a very good reason. From a very young age, our brain has been setting up patterns to categorize and organize our experiences. However these patterns, which create many of our societal norms, actually inhibit our creativity. This is where absurd and illogical ideas come in – yes, that person in meetings with "strange" ideas may very well be the next Einstein.

AFN logo
Blog
Assembly of First Nations A Call to Action

Investing in First Nations is not only a benefit to the social, cultural and economic well-being of First Nations communities, it is also a long-term and sustainable stimulus plan for Canada’s economy. Statistics Canada has predicted that Canada will face a labour shortage by 2017 as baby boomers retire and there are fewer workers to replace them.

A photo of Canadian 2-cent coin
Blog
Paying For University: How Far Will You Go?

As long as the fundamental issue of unequal access to university exists, there will continue to be students who elect to go to less than glamorous lengths to pay for school. Recently, the adult entertainment industry commented that they might look to the universities as a means to recruit exotic dancers. Where is the problem coming from, and where do we draw the line at what we would do to pay for school?

two interviewers engaged in a conversation
Blog
The Dirty Dozen Interview Questions

Needless to say, we all want to succeed while being interviewed. Yet it seems no matter how much we prepare, we always come across at least one question that stumps us. Part Two of this three-part series explores the 12 most commonly asked, commonly-feared interview questions...so read on!

Facebook logo
Blog
Ten Tips on Interview Prep from Employers via Facebook

I’m preparing to present an interview workshop. So, of course, I’m procrastinating on Facebook. I thought it might be a good idea to get fresh perspectives from Facebook friends who also hire students. 

picture of lighting with the caption: lightning round tips
Blog
Tips for Co-op Lightning Round Success

While it is a stressful time in the semester with exams and final projects upcoming, it doesn’t need to be for Co-op students. A large number of students are placed during Lightning Round and it’s a great time to find out about positions you may not have previously considered.

a man standing up giving a speech and asking questions
Blog
The Best Question You Can Ask

"How did you get to be where you are?" It's such a delectable question. Dave thinks that's because it's an invitation to tell a story, and we inherently love stories. It's also a tiny risk, as the person so questioned might decline the invitation. Here is Dave's story navigating, understanding and exploring this question. 

Roune Lake Treatment Centre Logo
Blog
[Indigenous Employer] Round Lake Treatment Centre: "Where Culture is Treatment"

Round Lake Treatment Centre is funded by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia through grants provided by First Nations & Inuit Health Branch and Interior Health Authority. Round Lake provides residential addictions treatment for persons in recovery. Find out how to become part of their team.

Girl sleeping on a book on the grass
Blog
Relax and Recharge for the Fall Semester!

You just came back from your summer vacation. Or for many students, you are enjoying the short break after completing your summer semester’s final exam. Now it’s a good time to think of ways you can relax and recharge for the fall, as this busy schedule with various obligations and commitments can take a toll on your body.

Letter P
Blog
The "3 P’s" of Interviewing

Get ready for your interviews by remembering the “3 P’s”: Professionalism, Passion and Preparation.

a candidate smiling at her interviewer
Blog
Behavioural Interviews

This series will help you prepare for almost any type of interview format that you might come across. In this edition learn about one of the most popular interview types you'll come across: Behavioural interviews.

girl talking and looking forward
Blog
How To Talk About Yourself Without Being An Arrogant Jerk

Did Greenday get it right?  Are nice people no more than spineless wimps, waiting to be crushed by the world's more fortitudinous vertebrates? Cathy Keates offers an alternative point of view.

Community picture
Blog
Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre

The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre, a non for profit charitable organization, has been meeting the needs of aboriginal people making a transition to the urban Vancouver community since its doors opened in 1963. Read about one 17 year-olds summer experience.

WAVS, I am strong I am kind banner
Blog
Warriors Against Violence Society Program

We believe there is a need to restore the traditional Aboriginal values of honour, respect and equality. The Circle of Life includes elders, lifegivers, men, and youth. All have a right to live in non-violent families and communities.

a group meeting with two individuals shaking hands
Blog
The Dirty Dozen Interview Questions

Needless to say, we all want to succeed while being interviewed. Yet it seems no matter how much we prepare, we always come across at least one question that stumps us. This three-part series explores the 12 most commonly asked, commonly-feared interview questions - and gives you the tools to rock the socks off your interviewer!

Diary of a Marketing Co-op: How to be Assertive
Blog
How to be Assertive

This entry of Diary of a Marketing Co-op asks how you can balance a level of assertiveness necessary to get your job done, without steamrolling everyone around you.

A guy with a suit
Blog
The Top 5 Last Minute Interview Tips You Really Need To Know

You’ve done all you can do to prepare for that big interview. You’re professionally dressed, confident and ready to roll. Here are some last minute tips that will ensure you make the best impression possible. 

Lady on a phone call
Blog
Phone Interviews

Do telephone interviews intimidate you? Increasingly, more and more companies are using phone  interviews to weed out potential employees and decide who will move on to the next round. If you're scared of phone interviews, read on for some tips!

Protect our ancestors sign
Blog
Musqueam Marks 100 Days with March to Protest Burials Under Threat

Open letter to my friends, relatives, colleagues and supporters of  c̓əsnaʔəm. Calling to Action.

a field of wheat
Blog
Cultivating Imagination & The Distraction of Logic

Just think how easy it is for young children to answer the question, "what do you want to be when you grow up?" Most kids won't hesitate to answer, even if their responses seem unrealistic, even impossible to our imaginatively-impaired minds. Not surprisingly, the answer to that question becomes much more evasive as the natural ease and strength of our imagination fades. Is there a way to get it back?

BC Ideas banner
Blog
BC Ideas

BC Ideas is an online competition, which asks British Columbians like you to bring forward innovative ideas and programs that address the challenges facing our province.

Aboriginal Human Resource Council Banner
Blog
Aboriginal Human Resource Council

Get connected to employers, mentors and career development opportunities through the Aboriginal Human Resource Council!

Canadian Cancer Society Banner
Blog
[Indigenous Employer] The Canadian Cancer Society wants YOU to Join the Fight!

The Canadian Cancer Society is a national, community-based organization whose mission is the eradication of cancer and the enhancement of the quality of life of people living with cancer. 

CCATEC Logo
Blog
Cariboo Chilcotin Aboriginal Training Employment Center

The Cariboo Chilcotin Aboriginal Training Employment Center (CCATEC) is a nonprofit society, training unemployed First Nations for employment, First Nations, living in the Cariboo Chilcotin.

CSC Banner
Blog
[Indigenous Employer] Correctional Service Canada Careers

More than just a job! Join our public safety team! At the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), putting in a day’s work means helping to keep your community safe.

CIBC logo banner
Blog
[Indigenous Employer] Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) is dedicated to providing financial services to North American Indian, Inuit and Metis people through our Aboriginal Banking Team. Join this team of experts and you’ll bring the new skills and training we provide to help meet the changing and diverse needs of the people in your community.

Jerkone's online portfolio
Blog
5 Tips for Online Portfolios: Employer’s Perspective

Portfolio tips straight from the employers, they share with us what they look for in online portfolios and how they decide who they’re bringing in for interviews. 

birds eye view flatlay of a person's work station
Blog
The Tables Have Turned

During the lightning round Natalie was shortlisted for a third job interview and was ultimately offered a co-op job! She reflects on her latest interview experience and shares some very important insights you should know to succeed at your next job interview.

dave sitting at the head of a table with an arrow pointing at his head, with the words "expert"
Blog
Not An Expert, Don't Want To Be

Have a cold? Take this medicine. Feeling sad? Take these pills. Not sure what to do with your life? Find someone to give you the answer. Anything will do, as long as it doesn't involve a significant personal investment of our own time, effort, or mental energy - after all, we've got better things to do.

Drexel University
Blog
Paul’s Journey to Landing His First Co-op Job

Take a read at this interview with Paul as he shares with us his first co-op experience at Drexel University in Philadelphia.