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Co-operative Education

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Finding Your Fit

It’s okay to not know what you want going into your first co-op. Ultimately, the experience itself, working with individuals from various backgrounds, asking questions, and challenging yourself will play the biggest role in self-realization.

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Winging it in Edmonton: Navigating the Turbulence of Moving Away from Home for an Aerospace Co-op

When you think about the space industry, you probably picture astronauts travelling lightyears away from home in search of the universe’s many unanswered questions. As a student I have questions of my own, including ones about my own journey and the learning experiences that I want to have. Even though the scale of travelling done by astronauts seems impossible right now – why not start by making a space mission of my own by taking a solo trip out-of-province to complete a co-op?

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Essential Networking Techniques for Thriving in a New Role

Six networking tips that can help build your professional network while navigating new environments.  

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Navigating the Waves of Data: A Journey of Growth and Learning

I learned many things in my co-op journey but some of the most important lessons that I learnt came from those working alongside me. Here are a few of those things that I learned from others, shared with you. 

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How I Discovered the Power of Power Pivot While Creating a Report

Ever wonder how to get the most out of Excel? Tools like Power Pivot, Power Query, and Power BI helped me see how accessible data analysis is for anyone from industry professionals to beginners. 

An image of Chloe Evangelista standing in front of a sign that says Squamish Days Festival, to commemorate a site visit to two Squamish Nation-owned businesses in Squamish, BC.
The Role of Sustainability in an Indigenous Business

A unique insight to how SFU’s Co-operative Education program has helped me gain confidence in both my professional and personal development.

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Embracing the Can-Do Culture at BlueShore

Work becomes easy and enjoyable when you are in the proper mindset – a mindset fueled by the belief that you can do it if you wish to. Meet Bulla Islam, a fourth-year undergraduate student reflecting on his experience with BlueShore Financial as he nears his time at SFU. Get insight on how to navigate yourself within a job setting, and steps you can take to harness a ‘can-do’ attitude.

 

Co-operative Education students, Jenny Huang (far left), Prem Gundarah (center), and Tatiana Parrish (far right) supported research lead and FHS associate professor of professional practice Anne-Marie Nicol's (right) indoor air quality knowledge translation project with the Pacific Institute of Pathogens, Pandemics and Society (PIPPS)
Health Sciences Co-op Students Empower Communities to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Discover how Co-op students in BC transformed wildfire challenges into opportunities for change. From DIY air cleaners to community connections, their story will inspire you.

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Remote Work Vs Remote Studying: What’s the Difference?

Join Sophia as she shares her 8-month journey at Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, where she explores the unique challenges and growth opportunities of working from home and how they can be applied to enhance her academic pursuits.

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The Co-op Diaries – Challenges, Triumphs and Everything In-Between

As Christina approached the end of her fourth co-op and final semester at Simon Fraser University, she reflects on a remarkable journey filled with accomplishments and eagerly anticipates the path ahead.

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Discover Your True Self: 7 Tips to Develop Unwavering Self-Belief and Authenticity

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.

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What I Learned as a Digital Marketing Coordinator for a B2B SaaS Company

As Rochelle near the end of her co-op term at Tradable Bits, she reflected on the experiences that have shaped her perspective on marketing and the tech industry.

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Work-Life Balance and Productivity While Working From Home

Unlock the secretes to thriving in your upcoming remote Co-op! Here are some tips and tricks that I found helpful from my experiences working from home for WorkSafeBC. 

Kathmandu, Nepal
The Tales of an SFU Student Deep in the Himalayas

If my present self time-travelled back to January 2023 and told my past self from January that I would be in Nepal, I would think my present self from August has finally gone off the deep end. However, here I am, writing this from Kathmandu, and my experience in this country feels like a separate life.

Emma standing in front of the pond at SFU Burnaby
A Co-op Student’s Guide to Media Relations

Like many Communications students, I came into the School of Communication very interested in media; both studying it and working in it. I found it harder and harder to pinpoint where I could fit into it professionally as I learned more about it. What do you do when you’re interested in media, but not sure you want to work directly in media?

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Gaining Independence in an 8 Month Work Term

In marketing, an 8-month term with one company is way more valuable than two 4-month terms with different companies as it’s only after working for 5-6 months that you are able to truly understand how the decision making process works and be independent.

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The Ultimate Guide To Achieve Work-Study Balance

I began working as a part-time Co-op student during the last semester, while also pursuing full-time studies? Yes, you heard that right, part-time Co-op and full-time studies. Was it a challenge for me? Absolutely. Did I feel stressed out? Definitely. Did I manage to succeed by the end of the term? Surprisingly, I did, and it turned out to be my most successful term at SFU, to be honest.

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How Building my Skill Set Led to Greater Opportunities

My university years and degree are not just about completing courses and receiving credits. I realized it is about building my unique skill set. 

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My Co-op journey: Lessons Learned from Seven Terms

Yes, you read the right, I did seven Co-op terms while completing my Communication degree. I’m a firm believer of trying as much as I can during my undergrad, and I did exactly that. Starting off with working at a non-profit in events and social media, I then transitioned to a university in Kenya doing content development and research, a corporate position in Calgary, multiple roles at a digital marketing agency, working at a bank, and now closing my Co-op journey in the public sector. Being extremely fortunate to be able to try many Co-op positions, I’d like to share what I’ve learned from 28 months of working in communications.

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The Introvert’s Guide to Networking and Making Quality Connections

Networking can seem like a daunting task, especially for introverts who prefer quiet and solitude to socializing in large, noisy gatherings. Good news is that there are effective ways for introverts to build meaningful connections without straying too far from their comfort zones.

Valentine’s Day at the office with some of the team! Left to Right: Claudia, Laurie, Kimberly, and Kiara
Round 2: The Takeaways of Working at SFU for Two Co-Op Terms

A few days before the Christmas break of 2021, I received an email that would jumpstart my Co-op journey leading me into new experiences, connections, and so much more! I'm not sure if many people would be able to say this, but wow, am I ever happy that I checked my email that day.

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You've Landed a Big Co-op…Now What?

Bzzt! You're staring down at the offer letter you've received from your dream company. Usually, this is where the chapter ends or the curtains fall on a very happy ending. No one prepares you for what comes next and if you're anything like me (an international student), you're even further removed from any immediate sage advice from your loved ones. Worry not! As someone who steered her own ship amidst stormy seas, I'm here to offer some do’s and don'ts that might just save you.

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Working as a UX Researcher and Designer for LandSure Systems

Chris works as a UX Researcher and Designer for LandSure Systems, a subsidiary of the Land Title Survey Authority (LTSA) that provides products and services related to land-related processes in BC.

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Tips for Effective Social Media Marketing

When promoting events and news on social media on behalf of a club, service, or business, the main goal is to get as many eyes as possible on the content. One of my tasks in my 8-month Co-op position was to post updates on their social media accounts, which includes job postings, upcoming events, and special announcements. Over these months, I was able to find useful strategies and tools to help me manage these profiles effectively and efficiently.

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Connecting with Community: Service Translating to Change

As the Vice-President External and Community Affairs of the @sfss_sfu, @eshanabaran had the opportunity to connect with community by building relationships with grassroot organizations, governmental entities, and unions. She also attended external events and worked on creating community projects.

Co-op students standing outside around a sign that says "SFU"
Event Planning 101: 3 Tips for Planning an Event even Gen-Z’s will Enjoy

Coming into this Co-op position as an Outreach, Promotion, and Engagement Coordinator for SFU’s School of Communication, I was not expecting to gain any sort of event planning experience. Creating an event for our incoming students for Fall 2023, was a brand-new concept that flourished this semester.

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Fumbling My Way to Competency: A Self Reflection of My Fears

Did I exaggerate my capabilities? Will they think I’m a disappointing hire? These were some of the questions that plagued my mind when I first stepped into the office. The fears worsened as I started to learn about my expected workflow, and I wondered if I was out of my depth.

Emily Running
Work, Sport, Life Balance: Navigating Co-op as a Student-Athlete

Creating a work, life, sport balance as a co-op student-athlete can be a daunting task. Learn about some common misconceptions and tips for success!

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Videography 101: A How-to on Making Videos from Start to Finish

Creating a video might seem like a daunting task, especially when we look at the editing aspect, but Trisha has provided a guide that has simplified the process for her while she gained work experience during her co-op term.

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8 Valuable Lessons I Learned from Working an Office Job

Working in a full-time position in an office involves a lot of online communication and file management, thus staying organized is the key to success. In my job specifically, my main tasks were replying to emails and messages on social media as well as posting on the platforms, creating a monthly newsletter, designing promotional graphics, and updating webpages. But no matter the occupation, whether you’re a worker or a student, these tips may help you stay organized and be effective.

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Working as a Visual Interaction Designer for Nokia

Kaylie Au is an Interactive Arts and Technology co-op student who completed her work term at Nokia. Read about how this opportunity helped her develop professional associations and helped her grow her skillset!  

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5 Social Media Branding Design Tips

Unlike designing a magazine cover or a poster that remains on the shelf for a period of time, social media content elevates the brand with a single post and catches the sight of the audience in less than a second. When the design space is just small square, there is only so much you can do, so with that in mind, here are five graphic design tips to make sure your branded social media posts are appealing and maintain a lasting impression about your brand

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Taking Initiative: How FHS Co-op Student Morgan Karugaba Strived in his Student Developed Co-op

Morgan Karugaba shares his journey of how he overcame the challenges of uncertainty, by stepping out of his comfort zone.

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The Secret to Finding a Co-op Position that is Fulfilling

How will I find a Co-op position that is perfect for me? That is a question that I had throughout my first and even my second seeking term. Thankfully, that is something that I have found the answer to this semester. This journey of mine started with my seeking semester.

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Working for A Fuel Cell Testing And Manufacturing Equipment Company

Hannah Chan, an SFU Surrey Co-op student has learnt the confidence to help her tackle the world of job searching from her time in her co-op job, and hopes to share her tips with you too.

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How To Land Your First Co-op

Knowing what I wanted to specialize in allowed me to start making plans for my first Co-op term. In all honesty, getting your first Co-op term can be exciting and intimidating. However, with a little planning and effort, you can position yourself for success.

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Employer Feature: An Interview With The Fraser Institute's Senior Manager, Development Events

Meet Danielle Fleck, the Senior Manager of Development Events at Fraser Institute. In this quick Q&A, Danielle discusses the benefits of having an intern at the organization, the growth of the interns they hired and how the organization made the interns feel comfortable in their position.

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Learning on the Job without an Expert to Guide You

I was the only communication person in my department; there were no experienced communicators to work closely with and learn from. I thought this situation would limit my room to learn, but surprisingly I gained valuable experiences and exercised skills that I didn't expect.

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A Q&A with a MA Political Science Co-op Student

Meet Anik Ahmed, an SFU Master of Political Science Co-op student. In this quick Q&A, Anik shares a bit about his co-op experience. Keep on reading as Anik shares his co-op's workplace culture, his employer and how he got the unique experience of travelling to Victoria.

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Finding the Balance Point Between Co-op, Club Work, and Traveling

Janice shares strategic tips on how to make the most of any student experience by becoming fully engaged. Whether it is expanding her network, traveling to interact with colleagues, connecting with mentors, or exploring a new city, Janice dives into it all.

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Interview with an Arts Co-op Student: Advice to Future Students

Meet George Gayed, a Political Science student minoring in international studies with a concentration of international security and conflict. In this quick Q&A, George discusses his work in his different positions, goes over highlights and the most valuable things he has learned.

Giulia standing in front of a window
Applying for Jobs Outside your Faculty: Low Risk, High Reward

Meet Giulia Crovini, an Economics Co-op student. In this quick Q&A, Giulia shares about her co-op experience. Specifically, she highlights the many benefits of applying for positions outside of your faculty.

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Opportunities are what you Make of it - An Interview with an Economics Student

Meet Ditij Beladiya, a student completing an Honours undergraduate degree with a Major in Economics, Concentration in Economic Data Analytics and Minor in Political Science. In this quick Q&A, Ditij shares about his co-op experience. Read about his interview, his day to day tasks and what he has learned.

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WHERE Are They Now: An Interview with a Former Master's Co-op Student

Many times, our co-op students graduate from our program, and use these experiences in future positions. Today, we will be interviewing a former student of ours, Fatima Sajid to see where she is now after graduation. Read about how her onboarding processes went, the skills she learnt and how her employers helped her develop said skills.

Annelyse standing in front of a window
Interview with an Arts Co-op Student: How a Policy Intern Position Improves your Writing

Meet Annelyse Ross, a Political Science and Social Data Analytics Co-op student. In this quick Q&A, Annelyse shares about her co-op experience. Read about how she discusses how she determines if a position is a good fit for her, what she did in her Policy Intern position and even how she got to travel as part of her position.

Judith
Working in the Gaming Industry? Here's What I Learned as a Community Manager!

The gaming industry is faced paced and requires you to be on the go, but that's exactly why I love it.

Windmills
What to Expect from an Energy Systems Research Co-op Work Term

I’ve spent the last eight months working an SFU research group on fulfilling projects focused on identifying barriers and opportunities to vehicle electrification in BC. What is research work like, and should you consider pursuing a research position?

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Working for a Sports Technology Company as an Android Developer

SFU Surrey Co-op feature student is Carissa Shum, an Interactive Arts and Technology student who worked for FORM Athletica as an Android Developer. 

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Working as a Green Operations and Sustainability Intern at the Canadian Space Agency

SFU Surrey Co-op features student Tianna Sequeira, a Sustainable Energy Engineering student who has been doing some calculating and analyzing work on her co-op journey. 

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Employer Feature: An Interview with BC Society of Transition Houses’ Executive Director

Meet Amy S. FitzGerald, the Executive Director at BC Society of Transition Houses (BCSTH). In this quick Q&A, Amy discusses how co-op students adapted to the position, resources the organization provided and tips for future employers and students.

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Becoming a Sponge at Work

Having thoughts about Co-op, here's an article of business co-op experience that might just be the right motivation for you.

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Employer Feature: An Interview with City of Coquitlam's Director of Corporate Planning

Meet Graham Stuart, the Director of Corporate Planning at the City of Coquitlam. In this quick Q&A, Graham discusses the process of hiring an intern, the rewards and tips for employers hoping to hire a student.

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A Q&A with a MA Political Science Co-op Student

Meet Aliyah Datoo, an SFU Master of Political Science Co-op student. In this quick Q&A, Aliyah shares a bit about her co-op experience. Keep on reading as Aliyah shares her day to day tasks, the onboarding process and how she has felt about the experience.

Herman
Working as a Graphic Design Intern at a Start-Up

Meet Herman Chan, an Interactive Arts and Technology co-op student who has been developing his skillset as a graphic design intern at AGvisorPro, a start-up company with a vision to build the world's most credible independent agriculture network.