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SPRING CLEANING!

Our team is doing some spring cleaning starting with user accounts. Login using your CAS credentials for instructions. We appreciate your speedy action so we can move onto other new and exciting initiatives over the summer.

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OLC!

BY STUDENTS, FOR STUDENTS

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Join the community using your SFU CAS account. Then, complete your registration by clicking on your name located in the top right corner of the page.

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CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Share Your SFU Story 

Have a story to share about your time at SFU? Add your voice to the ever-expanding gallery of community stories on our SFU Stories page! Take about 15 minutes to reflect on your experiences at SFU, including, but not limited to, involvement in clubs, student unions, peer mentorship, and work opportunities. Share your story to educate, inspire, and connect the SFU community. Submissions are welcome year-round, from all years and faculties.

Everyone has a story! What's yours?

SUBMIT

NEW VIDEO SERIES

Multilingual SFU

SFU students (graduate and undergraduate,) staff and faculty share their multilingual experience and welcome you to multilingual week at SFU. Do you have a multilingual story to share? Add it to the OLC.

Watch

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Share Your SFU Story 

Have a story to share about your time at SFU? Add your voice to the ever-expanding gallery of community stories on our SFU Stories page! Take about 15 minutes to reflect on your experiences at SFU, including, but not limited to, involvement in clubs, student unions, peer mentorship, and work opportunities. Share your story to educate, inspire, and connect the SFU community. Submissions are welcome year-round, from all years and faculties.

Everyone has a story! What's yours?

SUBMIT

Changing Times: Stories to Inspire Hope and Resilience

 

Image of Priyanka Das
Blog
Discover Your True Self: 7 Tips to Develop Unwavering Self-Belief and Authenticity
Digital Resource Assistant

Take chances as you never know what opportunities may arise. Meet Priyanka Das, a Beedie Co-op student who’s working with SFU’s Communication and Marketing department as a Digital Resource Assistant. Learn more about how she landed her current co-op and other opportunities such as the CEOx1Day finalist by being authentic and believing in their abilities.

VOLUNTEER STORIES

 

FEATURED

Chinmayee's Picks

Chinmayee's Picks

OLC has things to help students go pro. Having been part of the OLC's technical team and coming from a tech background myself, I tend to skim through tech-related articles first, diving deeper into the ones that pique my interest. I've compiled a list of my favourite finds from the OLC website, considering them valuable assets for fellow students.

Jared's Picks

Jared's Picks

Working as an editor for the OLC has been such a positive learning experience and has help me connect with so many unique and engaging stories. I would like to share some of my favourite pieces that I had the pleasure of working on. Yes, their grammar and spelling is great and their writing voice is very personal but each of these had something special.

Serena's Picks

Serena's Picks

It's been an amazing four months as a Copy Editor here at the OLC. I've had the chance to work on a variety of content, and it's been quite a journey. The OLC is a unique space where students can explore and contribute to a wide range of topics. Choosing my top picks was tough with so much good stuff, but here are three pieces that really stood out to me.

FEATURED

Hustle Culture

Hustle Culture

When should you stop and take a break? How much work is too much work? In this episode of Diving Into the Everyday, join us as we explore what is hustle culture, looking at its rise in exposure, and why a person may feel this pressure to participate.

Experiencing A New Culture In Mexico

Experiencing A New Culture In Mexico

I learned a lot more about myself – new interests, being more adaptable, future ambitions, etc. It was one of the most unique and remarkable experiences in my lifetime.

7 Ways to Have a Successful Meeting With Your Supervisor or Team

7 Ways to Have a Successful Meeting With Your Supervisor or Team

If you are struggling to facilitate or actively participate in meetings, you are not alone, as many students share the same struggle in school projects, student clubs and the workplace.

person laughing

NEW VIDEO SERIES

Job Search in a Pandemic

New episodes of Career Conversations from SFU Career and Volunteer Services are released every Tuesday on the OLC. Tune in see your most burning questions about the world of work, volunteering, and career exploration answered by guests from diverse professional backgrounds and organizations across Canada.

Episode 3 features Kristina Lee, Director of the IT Division at Impact Recruitment. You don't want to miss her expert tips for job searching during the pandemic and how you can best show off your soft skills to employers.

Watch
person laughing

NEW VIDEO SERIES

Job Search in a Pandemic

New episodes of Career Conversations from SFU Career and Volunteer Services are released every Tuesday on the OLC. Tune in see your most burning questions about the world of work, volunteering, and career exploration answered by guests from diverse professional backgrounds and organizations across Canada.

Episode 3 features Kristina Lee, Director of the IT Division at Impact Recruitment. You don't want to miss her expert tips for job searching during the pandemic and how you can best show off your soft skills to employers.

Watch

NEW POST

Activism Burnout: An Interview with Registered Clinical Counsellors

In light of the increased visibility of injustices around the world, taking a stand and contributing to social justice is becoming more prominent in our everyday lives. As you learn and advocate about different injustices, you may experience activism burnout with added stressors such as balancing work, personal life, school, and extracurricular activities. SFU Health Peers interview Counsellors at Health and Counselling Services for advice.

Read

NEW POST

Why You Should Consider Submitting an SFU Story to the OLC

SFU Stories on the OLC are short-form, Instagram-style, narrative stories that help to build a welcoming SFU community. No matter how big or small, every story has something to offer. Share your story today!

Read

NEW POST

I’m Starting a Minor Late Into My Degree... Now What?

One of our OLC team members, Brianna Tsang, shares her experience of deciding her minor in her 3rd year at SFU. "The knowledge and genuine connections made throughout this process has been an amazing experience and opportunity to have."

Read

NEW POST

Social Media Addiction & Screen Fatigue: A Survival Guide for Jobs in Social Media

When it comes to social media and digital marketing positions, it’s easy to be blinded by the positives. After all, many Communication majors are fascinated by digital marketing and algorithms— and if you’re a digital native, creating social media content might already be second nature to you. Whether you manage social media for your organization or create external content, there are a few bonuses to consider.

Read

NEW STUDENT PODCAST

On the Spot with the OLC

The OLC team is extremely excited to introduce a brand new podcast titled On the Spot with the OLC. Your hosts, Mehtaab and Terae, discuss important topics revolving around community, engagement, education and overall life advice! Within these 12 episodes, your hosts aim to bring a well rounded perspective to a variety of topics as they believe they can provide insightful knowledge about what it's like to be an SFU student. Please make sure to have a listen!

Listen to Episode 1: Creating Community at SFU

NEW PODCAST ON THE OLC

StudioBytes

Welcome to Studio Bytes! A podcast inspired by the energy of the SIAT Studios and the memories students make in those spaces. This podcast invites Alumni back into the studio and we get to learn about their experiences at SIAT and their lives after. In Episode 2 meet SFU Alumni Marie Cheung who shares her experience at SFU, her life post SFU and her time in Europe

Listen to Episode 2: What is Service Design?

Login to Provide your Feedback!

Did you know that each landing page on the site has a feedback section for logged in users? We use this information to discover and fix issues, consider site improvements and addition of new features. Our tech team is focused on feature improvements this summer, so share your input to direct changes to the OLC.

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ABOUT

Our Learning Community

SFU's Our Learning Community has an incredible range of content created by and for the SFU community. This includes diverse and authentic stories, which show a range of inspirational knowledge sharing happening between students, as well as handy tools that help with learning anywhere and everywhere you are.
 
Discover how you can contribute to our ever-expanding learning community.

 

CONTRIBUTE
11112
Members Joined

 

2226
231
Projects Created

 

92
Series Compiled

 

EXPLORE

Recognizing that our SFU community members are versatile storytellers, the new OLC has expanded how you can tell your story. Come take a look by exploring into this brand new range of content curated by our editors; this includes Blogs, SFU Stories, Videos, and Podcasts. And remember, no matter where you are in your learning journey at SFU, we want to hear your story! Learn more on how you can contribute to the OLC.

 

 

EXPLORE
a phone screen showcasing Amazon stocks rising
Blog
Get Your Side Hustle On: A Student's Guide to Part-Time Work

As she puts it, grad student Srijani Datta has been a student for most of her life. To support her love of academia she has worked as a reporter, tutor, translator, transcriber, and content writer. Develop your own side-hustle with her tips. 

A woman standing with a cardboard box on her head
Blog
How to Navigate Student Mindset Traps

When students enter their first or second Co-op work term, there can be a risk of falling into student mindset traps. These are the habits we pick up as students that are detrimental to our professional performance and development. Read on to learn more about how Bowen learned to avoid student mindset traps after four Co-op semesters working for three different companies.

A person flexing
Blog
Just Like Bunko: Learning Strengths

Everyone has weaknesses. But its focusing on your strengths that grant you success in life.

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LEARN

SHARE

CONTRIBUTE

Videos

Read

Learn

Share

Contribute

There is so much to explore on the new OLC!

So, browse around and have fun with the new learning and storytelling tools. Found something not working?

EXPLORE

Recognizing that our SFU community members are versatile storytellers, the new OLC has expanded how you can tell your story. Come take a look by exploring this wider range of content including Blogs, SFU Stories, Videos, Experiential Learning Experiences, and Podcasts. And remember, no matter where you are in your learning journey at SFU, we want to hear your story! Learn more on how you can contribute to the OLC.

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THE LATEST

Catch up on the latest and freshest content 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.

 

 

THE LATEST
TRIUMF particle accelerator
Blog
A Penny in a Sea of Sheldons: My Co-op at TRIUMF

You see a job posting, you read the description, you become interested. You apply for the job, you get interviewed, then you get hired. Now what? Anh Vu, shares how she learned the ropes at TRIUMF. 

Mikaela standing in front of her company's logo
Blog
Loving the Non-Profit Life

Working at non-profit organizations may have a less-than-desirable reputation among students, especially regarding pay and prestige; and while it may not look as glamorous as working in a big corporate firm, it has a few unique perks to help you gain valuable experience. 

Pat Chaisang standing in front of SAP's sign
Blog
Five Easy Hacks to Excel at your Co-op!

When it comes to an experience of a lifetime like an internship, the one question we ask ourselves over and over again is “how do I make the most out of this experience?” In this blog, I would like to share with you five game-changing strategies that you can start implementing at work!

Matvei Rudenko
Blog
Growing Your Skills by the Hour: Working in a Fast-Paced Start-Up

Read about Matvei's co-op experience at a start-up company and how this life-changing opportunity helped his career development journey.

Katherine smiling behind bushes
Blog
Phone Confidence

Is talking on the phone nerve-wracking for you?  You aren't alone.  Katherine offers some tips on how to be a better communicator through the phone.  

girl smiling looking to the side while food is behind her on the table
Blog
Familiar, Yet Not So Familiar

International Co-ops aren't the only way to submerge yourself in a culture.  Gurleen shares her co-op experience through which she gained a new perspective of her culture right here in Vancouver.  

Puneet
Blog
Learning by Doing: How Co-op Puts Theory Into Practice

Puneet Sran shares her experience from her most recent co-op with Verathon: "As someone who never imagined being an engineer, I have been extremely fortunate to work in such a technical field, among highly intelligent individuals". 

a person holding a rubix cube
Blog
How to be a Newbie: Pro Tips for Non-Pros

Co-op is a learning experience. Learning experiences aren’t about the “Aha!” moments. They’re about how you get there – and carry yourself through awkward growing pains... 

William
Blog
New Opportunities in a Changing Canada

A co-op semester at Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) allowed International Studies student, William Reid, to learn more about Canada's relationship with Indigenous people. Read more, here. 

Image of a diverse group of people dressed in business attire, standing in a semi-circle, laughing and drinking together
Blog
Working in an English-Speaking Environment

In today's global labour market, the ability to converse in a second language is an increasingly useful skill. Here, Jessica Tse shares some tips she learned as an international student from Hong Kong working in an English speaking environment.

Indigenous Day
Blog
Event Recap: SFU Indigenous Day

The 2nd Annual SFU Indigenous Day at the SFU Burnaby campus was a huge success! Here is a recap of the event.

A group of people sitting on a table as a part of a discussion.
Blog
Working for Purpose, Not for Profit

Applying for his first co-op placement, Business student, Jeffery Choi wanted a job that would be exciting and challenging, but more than anything, fulfilling. Looking for work with purpose, Jeff spent his first co-op as a Campaign Associate for the United Way of the Lower Mainland.  

Graphic design of a tree made of hands of every colour
Blog
Thinking Outside the Box: How Volunteering Translates to Work Skills

Criminology student, Rachel Tong shares how her volunteer experience helped her develop the marketing and community engagement skills necessary for a co-op position with Parent Support Services of BC.

Banner
Blog
How Creating Space for Indigenous Students Benefits You and Me

We must acknowledge autonomy for Indigenous Students in an academic setting, we are not in your classes to teach them, and we are not able to speak on behalf of every Indigenous community.

Science equipment
Blog
Five Things the Average Science Co-op Applicant Doesn’t Know

"It’s normal to not hear back from interviewers." Wait, what?! Science student, Richard Hsia has some sage advice to ease your mind and sharpen your competitive edge in your co-op job search. 

Mouataz
Blog
A Short Guide to Finding Your Passion

Veteran co-op student, Mouataz Kaddoura, shares valuable lessons learned from co-op terms with Avigilon, MENRVA, Biomedical Research Lab, and Shield-X Technology.

the author's portrait
Blog
How to Rock the 9 to 5 Lifestyle

Transitioning from student life to a 9-5 working lifestyle can take a bit of time. Luckily, Jamie has a couple of tips to help you quickly adjust and help you make the most of it!

white windmills against a beautiful sunset
Blog
Saving the Environment - One Co-op at a Time!

Soroush Jafaryvahed set out to learn something new every day on his co-op with Ballard Power. The experience taught him that just because you are only with a company a short time, as as student, doesn’t mean that you can’t make a lasting impact.

Three people posing in front of the SAP logo
Blog
Insights Into Working with a Global Tech Firm

The tech sector is one of the world's fastest-growing industries, making it the perfect place to launch a career. But where does that leave students with non-technical backgrounds? Following a coveted internship with SAP, Beedie student, Kevin Ng, shares his experience of working with a global tech firm. 

Two Learn-to Camp staff members talking to an audience
Blog
A Summer with Parks Canada

To be a member of Parks Canada's Toronto Urban Outreach you must first become an expert in the regions incredible national heritage sites. Environmental Science student, Francesca Marquez shares how exploring Canada's heritage sites prepared her to share her knowledge with the public during Canada's 150th anniversary. 

a laptop screen showing the text "Go Get It"
Blog
5 Reasons Why You Should Move for That Co-op Position

Ever spotted your dream co-op position on MyExperience but found out it was on the other side of the country? Or worse overseas! Srijani Datta, is here to tell you about why you should, in fact, relocate for co-op. 

A researcher's hand touching lab equipment
Blog
The Lowdown on Microplastics | Part Two

Graduate student, Stephen Chastain spent two co-op terms conducting research into microscopic pollution in our oceans. Here, he shares what he learned about this pressing issue and its global implications. 

a girl working on a project in the dark
Blog
“So, What Are You Going to Do With Your Arts Degree?”

Whether you’re in your first or sixth year, explaining what you intend to do with your degree can be as frustrating as it is… well, frustrating. In this article, Abby Zaporteza sheds light on skills and opportunities, intrinsic to liberal arts. 

Yasmin in the clinic with her ultrasound tools
Blog
Enhanced Sonograms and Patient Empowerment

Yasmin Khalili had her career mapped out way before she came to SFU, but the experience of coming to university and enrolling in the co-op program demonstrated that there are hundreds of paths and opportunities one can follow. Read Yasmin's story to learn about her co-op journey with ChANGEpain Clinic.

Brittany and her co-workers
Blog
Tips for Non-Technical Students Working in a Technical Company

With the rise of the digital age, the tech industry has become the hub of all industries. As these companies become more popular, you will want these tips to succeed if you're a non-technical students looking to work in a technical company

three sfu students laughing with each other
Blog
Four Non-CMNS Courses That Have Contributed to My Co-op Success

Think WQB requirements aren't relevant to your field of study? Think again! Kar Hing shares four non-communications courses that helped her succeed on her Co-op work term.

Mark smiling for the camera in a metropolitan area
Blog
Why Co-op Makes a Difference: Instead of Chasing, I’m Being Chased

Have you ever wondered if extending graduation to take part in co-op is really worth it? Find out by checking out Mark's final co-op reflection as he looks back on four co-op terms. 

Young woman standing in front of the the SFU track and football field
Blog
We Belong to a Caring Institution

Have you ever wondered how university contributes to your mental health? In this article, Makshada shares what she learned about SFU's actions to promote mental health and student well-being during her Co-op term with SFU Health Promotion.

the author with his team at CDRD
Blog
Find your Voice: Insights into Designing your Co-op

Every experience provides the opportunity to go above and beyond. Here, Beedie Business student Jared Chiu shares how he seized the opportunity to grow his role, and how you can too. 

Defne smiling
Blog
8 Reasons Why 8 is Better than 4

Beginning your journey with SFU Co-op can seem daunting at first, especially if you start with an 8-month Co-op but don't be afraid of it! Check out these benefits you'll get from doing an 8-month Co-op rather than 4-months. 

Ali and her team on the soccer field
Blog
How I Ended Up Working for the BC Lions

Beedie Business student, Ali Najaf shares his extraordinary journey from not knowing anything about the Canadian Football League to working with one of their best teams - The BC Lions.

Christy at the balcony looking over the city at the TELUS location
Blog
More Than Just Marketing: Pursuing my Passion at Telus

Don’t limit yourself and be active in asking to take on projects beyond the job description. Here are some insights from Christy’s co-op at TELUS.

the author in his office
Blog
Rocking At Work Without Hitting Rock Bottom

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed in a new workplace. School of Interactive Art and Technology student, Jimmy Phung shares his tips for rocking at work, without hitting rock bottom.

poster calling out justice for Colten and Tina
Blog
We Deserve More

We deserve more and so do our Indigenous youth. The justification of our suffering needs to stop.

Joselyn smiling at the camera against a dark background
Blog
Your Co-op Journey Starts at the End of Your Comfort Zone

An incredible co-op term with Goldcorp taught Joselyn Hernandez to be open minded when searching for co-op opportunities. You never know which organization, industry or position you might end up liking until you try. 

Fahad and his colleague talking about design on a whiteboard
Blog
Life of a Design Student: Reflections and Learning

Interactive Arts & Technology student, Fahad Hasany shares how co-op taught him to be confident learning the tools of the trade with the City of Surrey. 

word "no" painted on red background
Blog
It’s Okay to Say “No”

Frankly, I am terrible at saying “no.” Maybe it’s a strong work ethic that has been etched into my existence since I was a child. Maybe it’s not wanting to appear incompetent to the people who could potentially hire me back into a full-time role. Whatever it was, it seemed like my plate was packed to the brim