As someone who didn’t have a lot of direct experience in a technological setting, providing value to the organization had to come from something much bigger than my direct skill set.
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“So, what exactly do you study in communications?”
"I knew very little about accounting and definitely had no passion for it" - read on to find out how Leana overcame her aversion towards accounting.
Landing the interview is a big and the first step towards experiences that will help you throughout your working life. Here are some of Ivy's top tips on pre-interview preparations.
Read on to find about how Crystal became a manager at just nineteen!
Deciding whether to do Co-op or not? Braedon shares his experience with Co-op and how it can give you a competitive edge.
As many university students know, the start of many major projects begins with a very simple thing -- procrastination. And that is definitely what Jeremiah did before departing for their co-op term in South Korea. However, they soon found that when it comes to teaching you have to have a plan. Read Jeremiah's story to learn more about Teach and Learn in Korea!
Landing an internship at an embassy is a dream come true for students interested in diplomacy, foreign policy, international trade and development. Students have the opportunity to gain invaluable experience in dynamic, fast-paced, and highly rewarding environments, while learning from leaders in international relations.
So, you’re at university to get yourself a degree, and that degree is going to get you the dream job that you’ve always wanted, right? After you graduate, maybe you’re thinking of sending a few resumes off, just to see what happens. Did you know that employers evaluate you on your resume before they even meet you? If you want to increase your chances of landing that dream job, you really need to make your resume stand out from all of the rest, especially if you want to land that interview.
Resumes are tough, they’re one of the first things an employer sees from you, and they need to represent your skills and abilities. That’s why we’ve put together eight tips to help you create a resume that presents the best of you and helps you land that coveted job.
Noah did his co-op at PMC-Sierra. In this article he introduces the engineering term “ramp up” and identifies five ways to get up to speed when you start a co-op.
Being a pretty typical introvert, one of the things that I need to put more effort into than a lot of more outgoing people is building and maintaining new relationships. Friends, coworkers, other professional contacts, you name it - any new relationship.
When Yat was younger, he did what everybody – parents, teachers, counsellors – told me to do. Like Johnny Bunko, he was trapped into doing something he didn’t want to do. He focused on the wrong courses and exerted my energy on things that did not inspire or motivate me. Read more to find out how Yat found his path in university.
What will the resume of the future look like? Considering how many other things have changed in the world of career development, it's kind of surprising to me that many of the conventions that apply to resumes and cover letters seem to be alive and well.
Kelly shares how her experience with SFU YWIB helped her in her career. Find out what 5 lessons she learned, and what lessons you should know!
Are you having a hard time landing that ideal Co-op job? But, what is ideal? Explore Jeanie’s experience this summer at the YWCA Health + Fitness Centre. She shares her experience about how a job description might not stand out at first, but can lead to a stand-out placement.
You have an excellent layout and consistent format to your resume. Your design elements are eye catching while still being subtle and appropriate for the job. All of this will be of no use if your content is not reflective of someone who has taken the time to fully explain his or her skills and experiences.
Your resume represents many things. It is a slice of your life that highlights to an employer the most relevant things you’ve done, experiences you’re proud of, and the skills you’ve acquired. Still, writing one can be tough! Fortunately, there's one thing that can help you write an amazing resume: the job posting!
Whether it is one or two pages, everything from content to design of the resume should be in harmony, enabling you to showcase the great skills you have to offer.
Feeling nervous or unqualified as you apply for a job? Struggling to set yourself apart? Learn how to deconstruct the job description so that you can feel comfortable marketing yourself in your cover letter!
“ALWAYS do research on the company you are interviewing with.”
You can sell yourself in person, but your resume has to get you there.
Interviewstream has compiled a database of extremely relevant questions, similar if not identical to what professionals would ask you.
Have you been asked to prepare a presentation and write an exam on top of your typical interview for your next job? Read on to find out more about Natalie's experience with this new job interview format and her key take-away lessons for you.
Ending the interview on a positive note and leaving the room with confidence. Natalie goes on her third interview. For this job interview she has relevant experience and hopes this will work to her advantage. Read more to learn about Natalie's experience.
After having had 3 interviews, Natalie realized that she would be happy with any of the jobs. Now, what does she do when two still are deciding, and one calls her and asks her to decide within 24 hours?
Hi. It's me, Dave - I was one of the smiley, energetic people handing out popcorn last night when you came up to visit SFU for our open house, "Info Eve." Congratulations, by the way! It's a pretty cool experience to be offered acceptance to any university, let alone the top Canadian comprehensive school as ranked by Macleans. So, you've got good reason to feel proud of yourselves. I really could see that on a lot of your and your parents' faces last night. Way to go!
I and the whole staff at work attended a training last week on a "narrative" method of career counselling led by Mark Franklin, the practice leader of a company called Career Cycles. It's inspired me to write a bit about narrative therapy in general, especially as it applies to career development.
In the summer of 2008, Yat worked 40 hours a week while going to school with a full course load. Managing time was essential to getting things done, but everyone has struggles with time management. Read more to find out the lessons Yat learned while reading the book, The Adventures of Johnny Bunko
While my dad and I get along really well, we don't talk a whole lot - besides the fact that we live in different cities, I'm pretty sure we share a dislike of small talk. I think we share a lot in common actually, and understand each other quite well. So, despite our infrequent chit chats, my dad's been a big influence on a lot of things in my life, not the least of which being my career development.
Have trouble writing a resume to land that dream job? Never fear the OLC is here! We've all been there and we have tons of resources to bring your resume from 'meh' to 'wow'!
"So, if I don’t have a plan, do I just sit around and wait for stuff to happen?” You might ask. “How am I supposed to know what to do if I don’t know where I’m going?” Is another one I sense a lot of in my work with students.
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.
Grammar police can be annoying. Infuriating, even. Yet, I can’t help but feel a small triumph whenever someone exposes themselves as actually caring about proper spelling and grammar.
A routine is one of those things in life that can be either a huge relief or a giant burden. I know that I tend to oscillate between those two feelings, generally dependant on whether or not I have an established routine in my life at the time. I think that for the most part, we’re creatures of habit.
How many times and how many ways have you heard the word “fit” thrown around? I don’t know if a three letter word has ever had such wide ranging implications. Grammatically speaking, it’s an adjective, a verb, and a noun. Generally speaking, though, I’m pretty confident we can think of “fit” as referring to the compatibility of one thing with another.
I’m going to share a secret with you, internet: I’m a big Kate Beckinsale fan, and have been since the first Underworld movie came out in 2003. So, when I found out that the 4th Underworld movie - New Dawn – was being filmed at SFU , and that Kate was in a starring role, I got pretty excited (as many of my coworkers can confirm).
Busy week! Sometimes it seems like there’s a never-ending stream of students to see, employers to contact, people to follow up with, meetings to attend, and… well, blog articles to write!
Students are consistently hesitanant to make their resume “stand out” visually. It’s seen as a risk – that if one too many steps away from ‘normal’ is taken, the seriousness of the document will be somehow irrevocably compromised.
Not a lot of people have the luxury of being able to go through post-secondary education without holding down a job. I was one of those poor souls, slaving away at seemingly menial, shamelessly servile jobs to pay the proverbial bills, sacrificing my weekends, evenings, and summers for The Man.
I wrote a little bit about my experiences working in restaurant kitchens part-time during my undergraduate degree. While I do enjoy reminiscing, I’m also aware that not all readers will benefit from such a personal discussion.Who wants to read about some guy washing dishes 8 or 9 years ago, anyway?
“Did you notice that happiness happens less the more often you stop to find where it’s been hiding?” Stop dreaming! And get the dream job of your dreams. But not in your dreams – in your real life! The dream job of your future can become a dream reality NOW! Get out of your dreams, get into your dream career! Live your dream!
Have you met people in your life that have ample talent but struggle with motivation? Back in middle school, Yat was never a bright student. Like Bunko, he put too much emphasis on thinking inwards and constantly exerting energy towards tasks that were not producing positive results. Yat has since learned a lot, and is wanting to share his wisdom with you:
What is your fear? Is it fear of… Heights? Taking risks? Making mistakes? Something else? Answers will vary but one of Yat's biggest fears is making mistakes. However, despite this fear of mistakes, throughout several Co-op work terms over the last couple of years, he has had his share of experiences making them. Read more to learn about Yat's mistakes, and how to learn from yours.
Time and time again, we’ve told you how volunteer work can help you develop work-related skills. One thing that’s not always highlighted, however, is how volunteering can be an empowering experience, especially when you’re working on something that you’re passionate about.
Everyday, the media informs us of new global issues arising in different parts of the world. We think about how troubling the situation is for a little while and then go on with the rest of our day. In most cases, this is where the story ends.
Compared to university graduates decades ago, students today are faced with an even greater number of career paths to choose from. How are we supposed to know which career to pursue? Despite graduating from Capilano College as a top student and valedictorian, Sean Aiken was not an exception.
“After I graduated, I was unsure of which career path to take. Through working with Career Services, I’ve found that Project Management and Event Planning is something I really enjoy doing.”
How accurate are you in predicting what a person’s career would be based on what they majored in university? Read a list of some of my close friends’ careers. Can you guess what their university majors were? Take this quiz and match the job title to the university major:
Do you want to hear directly from Career Peers about their thoughts on volunteering as a Career Peer? This article showcases reflections from Career Peers on their experience.
Ever wonder what exactly makes a good impression when it comes to business? With my new job under my belt, I’ve networked and met several influential individuals. Upon introducing myself, shaking hands and getting to know these people, I have come to realize that there is a certain business etiquette that everyone that hopes to make a good impression should know.
Has someone ever told you that your cover letter needs to have an “eye-catching” and interesting beginning? Well, this is no myth. Recently, my sister who works in Human Resources has told me horror stories about the cover letters that she is subjected to reading.
There was a time when I didn’t know what informational interviews were. Little did I know that I could contact people who had positions that sounded interesting and ask about what they did! Can you imagine how shocked I was when I found out, I wondered why would anyone want to help me?
“You’re going to teach English overseas eh? Sounds cool. So what kind of ‘real’ job are you going to do when you get back?” I hadn’t planned that part yet, but my friend’s comment stung a bit and made me second guess my decision. Maybe he was right. My overseas experience would be a useless footnote in my work history.
It was because of this very question that I landed on my current job today. I was then a student staff with SFU Student Development. The department played a central role in organizing campus events and programs, and to this day I am still amazed at my supervisor’s ability to accomplish everything she sets out to do.
Going to an interview used to be so simple. What could be easier? Well, maybe a lot of things, but at least steps 1 through 4 were pretty straightforward. Right? I mean, what could possibly go wrong with introducing yourself and shaking hands?
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.
So you have graduated from university and are hanging your well-earned degree on your bedroom wall, and all of a sudden, a tiny, yet unavoidable voice in the back of your head is quietly screaming “No time to celebrate, you need to find a job!” or “I’ve got my degree…what do I do with it?!’.
Ever since we were young, we all had dreams of becoming something big, something extravagant. But as we grow up, we begin to realize that our changing interests, abilities and what the economy has to offer often shapes our career aspirations.
My name is Mike & I'm originally from Little Black Bear’s Band in the Treaty #4 area. I am in my final year of a First Nations Studies degree. Our goal is to determine ways in which the Career Services team can better serve the indigenous student population.
During the past five years at SFU, Yat has been asked multiple times: what do you want to become after you graduate? Every time, he would hesitate before answering. He didn’t have an exact position he wanted to be in, nor did he know whether he would have the skills for whatever that ended up being. Hence, his typical answer: “I don’t know.” To many, uncertainty is uncomfortable. Read more to learn how Yat overcame uncertainty, and left an imprint.
Ever wondered if Co-operative Education is right for you? Are you unsure if it’ll help you find the right job? Having doubts if Co-op can help you with your career path? Well think again!
Entering the Co-op program may have been a breeze, but now it’s time to get down to business: Applying for jobs and getting those interviews! Don’t worry if this may seem scary at first as there are tips to help you get your foot in the door as you continue your exciting experience in Co-op.
Feeling bummed because you don’t have a Co-op job yet? Nearing the end of the term and you’re still not getting interviews or have been rejected by them? Well don’t give up! You and other Co-op students are sharing that hot seat together, and although you haven’t been placed yet, there is still a solution!
When searching for jobs, things such as the salary and job description are certainly important factors in influencing your decision in applying. However, corporate citizenship can affect your career and job security. Read on to find out more about why ethics matter.
Have you ever thought about working in a place that you are familiar with? Perhaps a Tim Horton’s close by? For many students the idea of working at SFU might be a great option, if you prefer a 10 minute jaunt to work after class or an opportunity to learn more about how a university operates.
My outlook on networking used to be simple—if I was going to get a job, I wanted to know I got it because I proved myself. That I performed excellently during the interview and the company decided I was perfect for the role, not because we had mingled over beers or BBQ chicken.
It's thought provoking to ask, if you haven't already, "how would I describe what I do if someone asked me to be as succinct as possible?" It wouldn't be succinct at all to describe all the things you do on a daily basis, your responsibilities, your accomplishments, your significance. Nor would it be descriptive enough to only talk about a small subset of those things. So, how can we possibly do this question justice?
For some of us, pursuing our dreams might be completely out of our comfort zone. We’re happy to work in jobs we feel are our “best option” at the time. The problem with this is that we become complacent and our motivation and passion slowly start to dwindle.
Money, material possessions, a great job, time, even love... I would argue that adding any of these to your life is not the key to happiness. No, adding anything is not the way to go. Instead, let's think about subtraction.
Raccoons are wonderful creatures - and as worthy of praise for their career-navigation skills as any other creature I can currently think of. So, let us appreciate the greatness that is the raccoon, and think of them the next time we're pondering our next career move.
Five panelists came to speak to students about how they ended up with their current profession, life lessons they learned along the way, and addressed the many questions students had about the nature of the non-profit sector. Here are the stories the panelists have to share with you. After sharing their educational and career experiences, the panelists addressed a variety of myths about the sector.
2010 EVENT RECAP: How do you acquire a successful and rewarding career? For five professionals, it was working for community organizations in the non-profit sector. The non-profit sector gave them the opportunity to contribute their professional skills, experiences and passions to advance their career while making a positive difference in their communities. Recently, they sat down with SFU students and shared their personal stories and journey to their current positions.
When it comes to careers, we act like addicts - in spite of clear evidence that working too many hours is damaging us, we continue to do it because of perceived short term reward. It's time for a change.
It's not what you say that matters, but how you say it. You could be making something up on the spot, and be totally wrong on whatever it is you're talking about, but if you appear confident in what you're saying, you're more likely to be seen as right.
What exactly is confidence, and how do we get more of it?
Standing out - in a good way - is one of the best things you can do in your work search. Given the volume in most job applications these days, giving an employer the impression that you've got something other applicants don't is almost always a good thing. But what DO you have that no one else does?
Interactive Arts & Technology Co-op student Chi Hsi shares her experiences working for SAP AG in Germany, as a user experience designer.
"There's more to finding a job than surfing the net" These are the famous words career advisors state on a daily basis to current students and recent graduates. A well-rounded job search strategy is critical for career success and involves the 3 E’s for excelling: EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE and ENGAGE
SFU Surrey hosted a very successful open house, in recognition of its 10th anniversary as an SFU campus. It was fun evening - lots of prospective students, parents, various members of the community - joined in the celebrations. We had the chance to get some people's thoughts on "work." What did they say?
As much as you may hear otherwise, you're not special. If you're like 99% of people, you don't have any superpowers. You're not going to change the world in any significant way. Sure, you've got strengths, and you'll probably help lots of people, but you're not going to single-handedly save the world.
You're not Superman. You're not Spiderman. But here are five ways you channel Batman in your own career development.
Congratulations on your new accomplishment! You are a proud SFU grad who is ready represent SFU and engage in global communities. Some of you may already know what you will be doing but some of you may still be wondering what the future would entail.
“We are judged within the first 5 seconds of meeting someone, and I want to ensure that students make the best first impression possible so business relationships have the opportunity to develop.” Carey McBeth hopes that students see the importance of managing their personal brand.
The Bold Academy is a 4-week 'potential-building' experience marketed at college students and recent grads. The strategic use of the letters BA suggest that the program is primarily directed at arts students, conveniently playing off the stereotype of the aimless arts student. It's an interesting idea, but is it worth the steep price tag?
If there’s someone who knows about the terrifying journey that is the work search, it is Marissa Nahanee. She worked on many world class events, including the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Torch relay and visits by Princes Charles and Edward. But Marissa’s job did not just happen to her - she had to work for it.
An online portfolio is a visual representation of your abilities, personality and style. Why not show what you can do instead of talking about it? In fact, some employers go directly to a student’s portfolio first before even glancing at their resume. Even if having a portfolio isn’t a requirement in your current field of study, it will definitely help make you stand out.
If you've recently graduated, or are about to, the prospect of transitioning from the comfort and predictability of a student lifestyle to the dynamic unpredictability of the world of work can seem daunting.
The portfolio makes intangibles tangible offering a complete picture of who you are and where you want to go. Portfolios get attention, provide links, and build your credibility and confidence. If you are wondering how to start building your career portfolio click to read more.
"I want to help people." I quietly chuckle to myself a little bit every time somebody says it. If only they knew how many times a week I heard those exact words. So, I usually ask them to explain what they mean by 'helping people.'
it seems like everybody wants to help people. Read how career advisor Dave Lindskoog walks through this ubiquitous yet decidedly unhelpful desire with an imaginary student. Make sure to read part 1!
I've been reading a few really great articles lately, and instead of trying and failing to come up with something original, I thought I would share some of those articles, along with some of my thoughts about them. Here's five articles I like, complete with commentary, all of which use awesome metaphors to get their career advice across.
I was hesitant to accept a co-op position because I thought that the skills I would obtain would not at all be relevant to my career path. As it turns out, I learned that trying out things that do not appeal to you 100% at the beginning is often a risk worth taking. Here's my story.
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.
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!
The content of your resume should allow your reader to step into your shoes and see the value you brought to your previous employers, as this is where your potential worth as a future employee is best expressed. So do yourself a favour, and don't sell yourself short!
Dave knows full well the value of talking to a career professional (if he didn't he'd be in trouble). It's knowledge that he takes for granted, and every now and then he's made aware of the fact that the knowledge he knows, isn't common knowledge - in fact, most people probably have no idea what they can get from working with a career professional! Read Dave's advice on talking with a career professional, and how it will boast your professional developpment.
Have you ever thought about how amazing it is that we have the capacity to imagine? What is it that gives me this ability to picture what my future might be like, or for artists to create and portray entire fantastical mental worlds, or for children to spend countless joyful hours pretending to be something or someone else? And what benefit can imagination have on our careers?
Looking for teaching work? Getting to the end of your PDP/PQP/PLP program? Check out this list of frequently asked questions about teaching resumes!
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.
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?
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.
70,000 hours. To do what? Well, according to Gillian Watters, director of programs at KEYS Job Centre in Kingston, Ontario, 70,000 hours is the amount of time you will spend at your job over the course of a lifetime. Read on to find out how you can spend 70,000 hours doing what you love.
You submitted a stellar resume and landed an interview. Great! Now you have to ace the interview. At the interview, you will want to make a good impression, so make it count! Here are some tips to give yourself an edge!
Hear what this co-op student had to say about the Communication Co-op's annual "Get the Edge" event. This year's focus was all about portfolios! Read on to see what communication professionals have to say about the importance of having a portfolio and creating a personal brand.
"'I'm here for an interview with, ah... Mr. Jenson." He felt more than saw her purposeful scan of his appearance. In his mind, the just-noticeable wrinkles in his only white collared shirt became words scrawled in thick, black permanent marker. I'm not good enough. A days' stubble. Hastily tied necktie. What am I even doing here?
The main benefit of networking, allows you to find jobs, meet new people, and build long-lasting relationships for mutual benefit. Knowing the right people allows you to get to places that you might not be able to reach otherwise.
Today is Black Friday - the frenzied "first day" of holiday shopping following Thanksgiving day in the States. So naturally, value is on a lot of people's minds, as stores are now known to drop prices so low that shoppers have literally killed each other in an effort to save money. But it's another kind of value that motivated this article.
Kerri give the scoop on volunteering with Scouts Canada, more specifically Scoutsabout! Read on to find out why this was a meaningful experience for her and how you can get involved in a similar program!
Career Peer, Alix, talks about how getting involved is great but also how saying "no" is great too. Learn about when you should consider turning down an opportunity, even an exciting one.
Given my past rantings on such things as happenstance, chaos theory, and the general unpredictability of life and the world, I would forgive you if you thought that I would be opposed to any sort of goal-setting or similar such planful activities. I actually believe goals can be quite helpful - but only if we stop thinking of them as Ikea instruction manuals.
Despise updating your resume? Here's a technique that uses the stories from your life to bring new life to your resume. By thinking of each job on your resume as a small chapter of your work story, you can create a more impactful document, and you might even enjoy doing it!
It’s a new year with many new hopes and dreams. I know what I am thinking about – graduation. Just imagine the moment of wearing the graduation gown and hearing your name called before crossing the stage. Cameras and chants abound, validating your achievements after years of study. Still, we might ask ourselves, “What's next?” Never fear, chaos theory of careers is here!
I have discovered that learning from others, is the greatest way to avoid making mistakes; and listening to others with the intention to truly understand, is the greatest way to gain a real education; after all… “An education is what remains after one has forgotten everything he/she learned in school”.
Do you think that most introverts are very quiet, shy, and not comfortable speaking in front of people? Do you believe that extroverts are more outgoing and talkative? Let’s take a look at some common beliefs about introverts and see if they are true or not. You might be surprised to learn that an introvert can also be a Career Peer Educator!
Bernard Chan is an Energy Specialist with SFU Facilties Services, here he coordinates numerous energy efficiency and conservation projects across campus. Learn about what his typical day consists of.
Lauren interviewed Lucia Pecnikova, VP Philanthropy for SFU YWiB. Read on for her full story about how Lucia got involved, why she thinks YWiB Philanthropy is great to get involved in, and how other women can get involved!
Brand new ENGAGE Blog writer, Jeff, posts his first article about volunteering to speak in class rooms. He discusses how this can develop your skills and help to mentor other students looking for similar opportunities.
You're stuck. Maybe it's a dead-end job, or the sense that you're studying the wrong thing, or with the wrong person, or just in a place you didn't want to end up, but don't know how to leave. If only it were as simple as pressing a button and starting over. We can't do that, but here's the next best thing.
Career Services is hosting its annual Indigenous Peoples Career Stories event on February 21st, 2013 which brings opportunites and experiences directly to SFU's Indigneous students.
Gerald was born in Lytton, BC. He is a Status Aboriginal man and is a member of the Lytton First Nation. He shares the career journey that led him to becoming an Aboriginal Correctional Program Officer, making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal youth.
I am currently taking a Masters Degree in Health Science at the School of Population and Public Health at UBC. I have gained a tremendous amount of knowledge on evidence based medicine, medical biostatistics, clinical epidemiology and public health.
Are you at a crossroads in your university career? Does the stress of changing majors have you doubting whether to make a change? Here are some thought provoking questions that can help guide you on the path to making a choice that’s right for you.
Kerri shares the secret to finding hidden volunteer opportunities! She also gives tips on how to get over your fear of networking. Read more to find out!
Rui dishes about how volunteering can beef up your resume and give you a cross cultural edge! Read on for great tips and resources.
So you want to work for a certain employer, but they don’t have any job openings. What do you do? One option is to create a “job proposal” for the new position you’re aspiring to. Here’s how to do it.
Searching for a career can be an intimidating prospect. Looking for work requires self-confidence and faith in ones abilities, as well as skin thick enough to handle rejection. Add in fear of discrimination and it can be debilitating. This is why educating oneself about Canada’s Employment Equity Act is so important.
Finding a job that you want to wake up for can be a challenge, especially in today’s economy. But what if you could create your own job? I know someone who (almost) did this for themselves and this is his story.
Indigenous students transitioning to post-secondary often face unique challenge, which is why it's important to learn about all the community resources and scholarships avalible to Indigenous students at SFU.
Harsimran Kaur is a Career Peer Educator with SFU Career Services, and a third year student studying health sciences, kinesiology, and psychology. Her passions revolve around helping people, and she aspires to a career in emergency medicine and epidemiology.
Kerri shows you where to find SFU's resources for building your resume, coverletter, and interview skills. Read on to find out how to use this to get volunteer positions.
When it comes to your career, predicting, planning or trying to figure out what you’ll be doing in the future is well…almost impossible. Did you know that 70% of post-secondary students revealed their career choices were significantly influenced by an unplanned event (Krumboltz and Levin, 2004)?
Of the many debates in the career development world, the one over "passion" might be the most volatile. How much of a role should passion play in career choice? Looking at what we mean by "passion" might lead to some new answers.
In this blog post, Patricia shares with us some tips and tricks to creating our own portfolios. Read on to find out more!
Cover letters. The bane of everyone’s work search. A great cover letter doesn’t just happen by itself; rather, it is the result of you taking the time to do your research, and writing effective and meaningful information in a few well-worded sentences.
What can we take from the "smaller" things that we love? Often, they bring our lives tremendous amounts of meaning. It's important to acknowledge that work isn't the only area of life that we can derive meaning or fulfill our values.
Have no clue on how to start a portfolio? Check out this blog to get useful beginner tips for building your portfolio!
As we’re coming up to the end of the semester, most of us are thinking of looking for opportunities to work over the summer. As such, most of you are putting together your cover letter and resume, and maybe even your portfolio. Besides the research about the company, how do you prepare for those tough interview questions?
Career stories are often fascinating, and Kelvin Redvers’ story is no exception. An SFU alumnus, Kelvin shares how he maneuvered his way into his dream job—Aboriginal filmmaker and television producer at CTV—a mere three months after he convocated. This is part 1 of a 2-part series.
An avid watcher of HBO and AMC hit shows like Dexter, Game of Thrones and Mad Men, I often daydreamed about what it would be like to work in the film and television industry. Lucky for me, I was able to interview Kelvin Redvers, a young television producer at CTV. This is part 2 of a 2-part series.
Read about Kevin's co-op adventure at SNC Lavalin in Calgary and the lessons he's learnt along the way
To grow your career you need to know what’s available where you are! Checkout what’s happening in your own area. Opportunities for growth differ in various sectors across the country, and career trends are always changing, so you need to keep up.
When it comes to careers, a lot of people think of themselves as having a "calling" towards something. What does this mean, and is it even helpful? Some recent research gives us some clues.
Angela writes about coming to SFU, the Indigenous connections she found, and how her job search found her back in the New Student Enrollment and Transition department.
Summer is just around the corner. If you are a job seeker without a summer position, don’t worry. Here are four useful tips for your Last Minute Job Hunt. Are you READY to get into job-hunting mode?
Computer Engineering student, Harpreet Basaron is currently on a 16-month co-op term with IBM. Read how her time in Toronto has allowed her to broaden her career horizons, as she left the province to set out on her own, overcoming new challenges and career experiences.
Do you know what Bill Gates, Yves Saint Laurent, and Plato have in common? They all had incredible mentors. Whether you’re beginning your career journey or you are well on your way, it is always nice to have someone along for the ride who can provide you guidance, support, and wisdom.
Life is full of contradictions, especially when emotions are taken into account - and careers for that matter. This isn't always easy to acknowledge, and it can be incredibly difficult to act on, but it's also an inescapable fact of life, and as such, of career development. So go ahead, contradict yourself.
My name is Tanya and I am majoring in Kinesiology – Active Health and Rehabilitation. I decided to join the Co-op program to gain hands-on experience and find out what type of work I would like to do once I have graduated. I began co-op in January of 2010 and finished the last of my co-op terms at the end of 2011, all in the area of physical rehabilitation. I wanted to address some of the challenges I have experienced during my time in co-op, and I hope to help other students who may be facing similar problems in their own work terms.
Employment scams are becoming more and more common, and scammers are continually coming up with new strategies to efficiently separate innocent and often desperate job seekers from their money. So what can you do to prevent/report being scammed?
Randy Jack is from the Cheslatta Carrier Nation. He is now an outreach worker with the Vancouver Recovery Club.Here is a series of question and answers to learn more about his education and career experiences.
SFU Beedie Business student Angie Yu is relocating to China this summer for an International Co-op position with the Embassy of Canada. She recently spoke with International Co-op Communications Assistant, Kiran Dhanoa and shared details about her interview and offered tips for others wishing to find work at an embassy or consulate.
My plan was all set, my classes were all chosen and off I went to continue with my education. I didn't talk to anyone working in the field and I didn't know what I might be in for. Big mistake.
David follows up on his earlier post on unpaid internships, and asks: How do we determine whether an unpaid internship is moral?
Naina had the opportunity to put her passion to work at her dream company for her 8-month co-op work term. In the first part of a two-part series, Naina shares the learning experiences from her first four months at one of the largest healthcare companies in the world.
Curious about how Pinterest could be useful for your professional development? Check out this blog on how Pinterest can take your career to another level!
In the final entry of her Easter Seals Camp series, Rachael reflects on her summer spent in Squamish, sharing what she learned about herself, and her career path.
In the second of a three-part series, Rachael welcomes Easter Seals campers to Squamish, and offers advice to anyone thinking of spending the summer at camp.
What do we mean by the word "intentionality"? David examines some helpful - and unhelpful - ways the word has become popular, and how the right intentions can be useful in your career and life.
Saying thank you is simply the manifestation of showing your appreciation, politeness and your overall good manners. Were you aware that it’s strongly recommended to write thank you notes after interviews?
You may have heard of the recent BC Job Fairs or attended one, but did you know that SFU has its own career fairs on two campuses? Our school holds an annual BIG Fair in September and a Mini BIG Fair in the Spring semester.
Are you worried about your career path or worried that it is not following your big plan? Plans are not set in stone and can always change course. Read about happenstance and explore your vast career options!
The BIG Fair was back at Burnaby on September 25th. We recapped some of the day one highlights, read on to learn about some of the employers and opportunities available.
A career is never set in stone. Read more to find out about career exploration, and how you can use your role as a student to your advantage. It is never too early to start searching...
As an Indigenous Student Ambassador Christina was asked to show two potential donors around campus. Joe Shayler representing UA Local 170 and John Mutton, President and CEO of Municipal Solutions were interested in supporting SFU's Indigenous students.
Interacting with others happens on a daily basis, whether it is at a business meeting, presentation, or an informal conversation with a friend or co-worker. Mastering this skill can lead to better relationships between co-workers, friends and clients.
As almost anyone whose spent time in an office can attest, some people just do not know how to dress approporately for their workplace or a job interview. We asked SFU students, staff and alumni to share some of their real-life examples of what not to wear.
Discover how to best utilize your online presence to grow your career and network!
Want to learn more about portfolios and having a professional image online? Check out this blog on building a digital resume and increasing your competitiveness in the job market!
Finding a job these days isn’t an easy task. You’ve got lots of cover letters to write, you have to tailor your resume for each position, you have interviews to prepare for, and that’s only covering the ‘mandatory’ steps. But what can you do to set yourself apart from other candidates?
Natalie faces a new experience in her role as SFU Food Bank Coordinator: Conducting interviews. After only a few short months, she's on the other side of the table, find out how it went.
For most engineering students, three semesters of Co-op work is a requirement for graduation. Follow Scott on his Co-op journey as he gradually discovers his passions by taking on multiple Co-op opportunities.
Do you have mixed feelings about graduating from SFU? Do you find yourself putting on a brave face when talking to others about your future career? Don’t suffer in silence! Be the change and welcome uncertainty into your university experience.
Navigating the job market today is not an easy task. Application processes are becoming longer, qualifications that you may need are becoming greater, and there’s sometimes not as many jobs available at some times of the year. But there are ways to overcome all this, and it's not even that difficult.
What do employment rights issues look like? Issues of discrimination, harassment, and unpaid wages are a few well-known examples, but you might be surprised to learn how subtle and seemingly commonplace many employment rights infractions are. Here are some situations you might want to be prepared for.
There are cultural differences between us that can often be misunderstood and affect our success in our chosen profession. An article in the Globe and Mail, entitled, 5 Tips for Women in the Workplace, gave a few excellent pieces of advice for those of us moving onto a career.
"I think that in many ways, there is still so much confusion surrounding Aboriginal people and culture. I know many people are often afraid of doing or saying something offensive, so instead of asking questions and being open, they shut down and stay away." Christina shares how employers can be more inclusive for Aboriginal recruits.
While current career options at present may not always look great, there’s a lot to look forward to in the future. New fields are being developed almost every month, and new opportunities in a range of disciplines seem to be popping up fairly frequently – so what does the future hold?
Interested in learning more about a particular career path? Hoping to expand your network? Looking to practice for job interviews? An informational interview might just be the thing you need!
Should our most important values be fulfilled by the job we do? Anything less tends to be viewed as "just a job." The result is predictable: a bunch of unsatisfied people who think they should be in more fulfilling jobs. Dave argues it's better to love yourself than your job.
What makes a great LinkedIn profile photo? We use examples from student photos taken during the BIG Fair to illustrate tips on how to look your best in your LinkedIn profile.
There are many myths that are prevalent about working in government, whether it is at the federal, provincial or municipal level. But do these myths actually hold any truth? Read on to find out more, and to also discover a fantastic event opportunity to network with government representatives from all levels!
Have you ever thought of how the holidays can help your career? The hustle and bustle, holiday gatherings, and gift-giving are all aspects that can be applied to expanding your network or even get you a job for the new year.
It's understandable to look forward to a relaxing break during the winter holidays, one that will be devoid of any intellectual effort. However, I encourage you to reconsider: treat this as an excellent time to jump ahead in your job search! Here's the story of how I made the most of my holiday job search.
Are you interested in pursuing a career in health care? Kelly looks into how volunteering can help get you there!
What are your plans for the future? Does this question make you cringe? Don't worry: you're not alone. The pressure to have our future plans all figured out can be overwhelming. But the truth is, we don't need to have it all figured out. How can we predict the future when it's always changing?
No matter how well you've prepared for it, rejection hurts on a gut-wrenching , tear-jerking scale. Why does it hurt so much? Perhaps more importantly, how can we deal with it? Dave proposes two conceptualizations of rejection, and some tips for dealing with it to go with each.
Gursher shares with us his experience working for various fields within engineering. Read about his valuable experience in the co-op program!
The FNSA Aboriginal Criminology Series Perspectives on Leadership and Policing is on January 28th at SFU Harbour Centre. Join them to hear from Sgt. Ernie Louttit. After 27 years with the Saskatoon Police Service, he is retiring and publishing his memoirs.
Maclean's Magazine named Jodie-Lynn as "One of Canada’s Top 100 Under 30 to watch in the new millennium.” Her career as a lawyer has been nothing but inspirational.
Want to be closer to your university? Looking to gain valuable experience in your field of study? Want to have valuable connections that will last you a lifetime? Joining a student club or association just could give you the solution you need!
It may only be the start of the semester, but you’re probably already piled with work. However, there’s no better time to get involved within your community than now, especially with so many volunteer opportunities around with the new year. Find out how being involved can jumpstart your career.
Thinking about doing a Co-op semester? Anudeep explains why this is an important experience for all students and tells us what his experience at the SFU Power Lab was like.
Sticking with something to the point where you develop enough skill to love it isn't easy, especially when considering career choices. So, if you don't feel 100% impassioned by your work right away, that's okay! Here's why.
Stephanie Wiriahardja started building her portfolio in 2009, before she applied for her first SFU Co-op semester. 5 years later, with regular updates, her entire online persona is still paying dividends. Find out Stephanie's keys to branding yourself online.
Working in the non-profit sector may be associated with myths such as there's no room for upward movement, limited responsibilities, and that there are not many opportunities available. However, there are a significant number of advantages related to working in non-profit organizations.
My impression of co-op was that it was supposed to be a way in which to explore the challenging world outside of school; consequently, working at my school felt comfortable, and limited. At this point, after a rewarding four months, it is impossible for me to think of my experience as limited.
“Our Native Bows and Arrows today, are now Education, being clean of Alcohol and Drugs, Respect for Self and all Creator gives us, Non-Racist attitudes, Good hard work in attitude and job at hand, Love and Caring for Mother Earth and all Beings, through God Our Creator. Aho." - Michael F. Harris
How can you get into a different industry than what you studied? Emy Sun studied electronics and later got a job at Microsoft as a software engineer. Find how how she made the transition and what it took to make it happen.
Whether you’re looking at event planning or public relations, a portfolio can be a significant, helpful resource in your job search. Here are some tips on creating and organizing your portfolio, whether in print or digital format.
Are you in the middle of looking for summer work? Have you applied for countless jobs online but have not been short listed once? Your misfortune could be caused by ATS ‘robot’ systems. Read on for tips and tricks to fight back against ATS systems.
First year is an important time in any university student's development. Kim discusses why she feels it is also a great time to get involved with volunteering!
Applying for a volunteer opportunity, a job, or graduate school, are all forms of taking career-related action. But what if you don’t have enough time to tackle these aspects of your life individually? That’s where the miniBIG Fair 2014 comes in – read more to find about this very useful, one-day event.
Wonder what resources are available to help you transition from university to the world of work? Wonder what you can do to prepare for the workforce after you graduate from SFU? Read on to discover the resources and strategies available to prepare you for the transition from ‘Backpack to Briefcase’!
So it’s mid-March and you haven’t got a Co-op job for the summer yet, exams are approaching, and you're getting worried you'll never land a job. Co-op coordinators Heather Keeping and Marcia Shimizu offer up tips on how to excel during lightning round, and why it's actually awesome.
Networking is essentially building relationships with professionals in your industry. As time consuming and challenging as it can be, it’s important to focus on, especially when you are on the hunt for a job. Natalie continues her Road to Graduation series with her networking tips.
As Natalie nears graduation her focus has shifted to landing a post-grad job. In the next instalment of her Road to Graduation series, read up on the basics of setting up and attending an informational interview.
Natalie continues her Road to Graduation series with tips on how to prepare when a professional finally grants you an informational interview. Follow her tips and make the most of the opportunity.
Are you finding that getting your dream job is unattainable and is only for the “lucky ones?” Create your own opportunities and luck when it comes to the workplace and discover how to land a job fresh out of university.
Standing out in today’s job market is definitely a tough task. But, you’ll be pleased to know that there are a number of ways you can make yourself stand out to potential employers. Read on to find out how.
Career fairs are no doubt stressful experiences for a range of people, but there are ways to ease the stress. If you want to create meaningful connections with organizations at the fair (with less stress), keep on reading to discover some useful tips.
Ever wondered what organizations look for from students and recent graduates at a career fair? Check out what tips Scotia Bank, Clio, Sun Life Financial, City of Richmond, MyPlanet and Public Outreach have for students to succeed at a career fair.
Missed Backpack to Briefcase this year? Find out the advice given by SFU alumni.
Interviews are a two-way street. They allow employers to find out more about their candidates, and candidates to find out more about the employer. Find out what kind of questions you can ask to maximize your interview.
You’ve got to that new stage in your life as a new employee. But as a new hire, you may feel somewhat out of place on what may be an established team. So, read on to find out five ways to successfully blend in.
Wonder how you can stand out against other candidates to land your perfect summer job? Check out the 5 post interview tips and tricks to help you leave a lasting impression with the hiring manager.
You did it. You successfully finished the interview, hopefully feeling satisfied. But what about those references you gave to the interviewer – what happens to those now that your interview’s done? Read on to find out!
Wondering what activities are available this summer to keep your brain busy while giving you a much needed break from school? Read on to learn the Top 5 Tips to enhance your summer break!
Why work for free? Kim shares her thoughts on why volunteering can sometimes be better than working a paid job when it comes to career exploration!
Tauseef Alwaris recently changed his major from “Electronics Engineering” to “high voltage Electrical Engineering” because of his various co-ops, speaking to different people, and his educational experiences. He reflects and shares both how and why he decided to make this change and how Hydro One helped his decision.
In this article, Mehul shares his Co-op journey with us and let's us in on the secrets of getting a Co-op!
Ever wondered what it would be like to be interviewed by Facebook? Bradley Sutherland, a recent graduate from SFU’s Interactive Arts and Technology and a specialist in interactive design, was selected to be interviewed by the social media giant. Bradley shared this 3 part interview experience with the OLC.
Ever wondered what it would be like to be interviewed by Facebook? Bradley Sutherland, a recent graduate from SFU’s Interactive Arts and Technology and a specialist in interactive design, was selected to be interviewed by the social media giant. Bradley shared this 3 part interview experience with the OLC.
Ever wondered what it would be like to be interviewed by Facebook? Bradley Sutherland, a recent graduate from SFU’s Interactive Arts and Technology and a specialist in interactive design, was selected to be interviewed by the social media giant. Bradley shared this 3 part interview experience with the OLC.
Kelly is a Communications Co-op student who landed her dream job. She shares how she did this with 5 tips!
As a co-op student you often get a lot of advice about the value of research based or industry based co-op. According to Kay, sometimes we just need to sort out which one suits each individual best. Read on to learn about her experience with both research based and industry based co-op positions.
Have you ever thought volunteer opportunities can lead to your next job opportunity? One of the best ways to land your next job is to volunteer. This is an article on using volunteer opportunities as a strategic tool to get your next paid position.
Do you think practicums are not worthwhile? Think again! Natalie did her practicum at Elettra Communications for the SFU PR Certificate and she lists 3 reasons why practicums are worthwhile.
Patrick started his career as an elementary school teacher and now he is completing SFU’s Computing Science Second degree program. He shares how he got there and how co-op has been a great help!
Patrick started his career as an elementary school teacher and now he is completing SFU’s Computing Science Second degree program. He shares how he got to the program and how co-op has been a great help!
Leo Ng is a fifth-year BBA candidate in the SFU Beedie co-op program. He worked at Canada Revenue Agency for 8 months. He shares what it was like to train for his role as a Taxpayer Services Agent.
Leo Ng is a fifth-year BBA candidate in the SFU Beedie co-op program who worked for Canada Revenue Agency for 8 months. In this article of his three-part series, he shares his experience learning on the job.
Leo Ng is a fifth-year BBA candidate in the SFU Beedie co-op program who worked at for Canada Revenue Agency for 8 months. He shares what training is like, learning on the job, and in this article, he shares his overall reflections on what it was like to work as a Taxpayer Services Agent.
After working for a year with Arts and Communications Co-op here at SFU, I’ve seen students land amazing Co-op opportunities, and I’ve also seen students struggle when it comes to following through, and landing the job. Here are a couple of truth bombs from yours truly that I hope will help you buck up and land a Co-op job.
Did you know the School of Computing Science has a co-op program for graduate students? Evgeny was thrilled when he found out and because of the program, he was able to land a job with everything he was looking for at Broadcom. Read about his experience in this four part blog series!
Sometimes in a co-op position, you might not get tasks that you absolutely love. Make the most of it as Evgeny did, Evgeny went from feeling this way to having his co-workers ask for his advice! Read about his experience in this four part blog series!
Evgeny not only met his goals professionally at Broadcom, but he was able to improve in more ways than he could imagine - including meeting his personal goals and growing as an individual. In this four part blog series, Evgeny shares with us his co-op experience at Broadcom.
Evgeny not only met his goals professionally at Broadcom, but he was able to improve in more ways than he could imagine - including meeting his personal goals and growing as an individual. In this four part blog series, Evgeny shares with us his co-op experience at Broadcom.
Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology students often find themselves lost in the hazy fog of physiotherapy, med school, chiropractic’s and post-graduate studies. New graduates can find salvation in a challenging, but rewarding field that calls upon the creative and the technical sides of an individual. Read on to learn about working in the field of Ergonomics.
A lack of confidence can make you feel like you are getting raked over the coals in an interview. Learn what you can do to flip the situation on your interviewers in order to look like a pro and learn what they are really looking for in an employee.
Statistics professional Eric Cai used part of his recent vacation to learn Python programming, and found it a great way to further his skillset while keeping his mind sharp. He encourages students to consider devoting part of their next vacation towards professional development.
If you're finding the prospect of working and volunteering while being a student daunting, don't fear! Hear from two SFU students leading busy yet productive lives.
Coaches. We have had them since we were five-years-old in sports, academics, or life. Throughout the years, we learn from other people, and this has had an influence on who we become. This is an article on reasons to become a coach.
Vlad Tkachenko is a 5th year Computing Science Student who spent 2 co-op terms at RIM and 2 co-op terms at SAP. He shares what he learned and some tips for success on the job.
Nick Doering was not looking for a co-op job at SFU, but soon discovered that his work at SFU’s SIAT department was a great first step to landing a position at a high profile company.
Are you a Computing Science Student about to be interviewed? Dylan shares interview tips, personal anecdotes, and learn how to prepare yourself for your next interview. This is part two of five.
Raymon Gulati faced his fears by interviewing with BlackBerry, landing a fantastic job, and learning that his talent & skills could successfully overcome what seemed to be his biggest obstacle.
How does volunteering help your employability? Kim goes through a few of the top skills that you can gain from volunteering that will also help you as a working employee.
Academics are certainly important, but volunteering can certainly help you in other aspects of your life, both personally and professionally. Nicola explains some key benefits to gain from volunteering.
How do you go from coursework to real-world projects? Dylan shares how his courses and co-op have helped him to be a better engineer. This is part three of four.
Are you a Computing Science Co-op Student and wondering what the right job is for you? How do you decide what the right job is for you, especially when software is becoming a huge part of every industry? Dylan breaks down “finding the right job”. This is part four of four.
Not sure what career path you want to take? Computing Science Co-op Student, Cody Santos, was not sure either. Read about his first co-op term at Mobidia and what he learned because of his experience there.
Are you thinking of getting a job but don't know where to start? Have you been sending out hundreds of resumes but never heard back from anyone? Check out these 3 simple strategies that will make you look so good that any employer will want to hire you.
If given the opportunity to go back in time, based on what I have discovered interning at SFU Career Services, I would offer my younger self three pieces of advice. Hopefully you can also learn from my experiences and have a smoother transition.
As a follow up to Kim's article, "Employability Skills You Can Gain Through Volunteering," read how those three key employability skills could be applied to a future career! Let us know: How would these skills apply to your own dream job?
Find out how Margaret takes on a challenging co-op experience in unfamiliar territory as a student kinesiologist with CBI Health.
As a Biomedical Physiology major, Kirsten always imagined a co-op placement in a lab research of some sort or a hospital. However, working as a admin assistant at a physiotherapy clinic has changed this thought dramatically. Read about Kirsten's co-op journey to find out more!
Ever wanted to become a tutor? Find out why being a tutor can actually help you become a better student.
Here in his own words "How a White Guy got His Start in Indigenous Studies".
The beauty of working in a city away from home is that as much as it provides you with opportunities to advance your career, it provides you with even more opportunities for personal growth.
Most co-op students and other job seekers know – or learn quickly – that sitting at a computer is not the most effective route to land you your dream job. But social media is a huge part of our everyday lives! Are you making the most of it – with the right tools – to elevate your job search?
As a co-op student at Lungpacer Medical, Laura has gained invaluable skills through a variety of responsibilities. Read on to find out how this experience has contributed to their learning and personal growth.
Have you ever considered what you would say during an interview when asked the “Tell Us About Yourself” question? Courtney, a Business co-op student learned a lot about herself during her co-op and has figured out her answer. Read her reflection and re-think your answer to the question.
When Ian first came to SFU, Ian was a student in the Biological Sciences program. After their first year, they realized that they didn't just want to study living organisms, they wanted to learn about the human body. So at the end of their first year, they found themselves transfering to the Biomedical Physiology program.
Did you know that according to some statistics, up to 33% of managers know within the first 90 seconds of an interview whether or not they will hire someone? Learn how to ace your interview from beginning to end with these 8 great tips.
Read about Harpeet's co-op experience as a Therapy and Office Assistant at DesLauriers Chiropractic Group Inc and find out how this experience has helped them gain valuable lifelong skills.
Can you tell whether a job will be one that helps you wake up happy or one you would eventually dream of quitting? There are actually some telltale signs that can help you understand the job and company culture to give you a better idea of the fit.
Job searching? Starting out in an industry? Switching careers? Exploring your options? There are many reasons we need to do company and industry research in our professional lives. You may need these skills when exploring new industries or fields, creating a job application or preparing for an interview.
Figuring out your dream career can take several years as you try new things, meet interesting people and learn more about yourself. After five years in an established career, co-op became a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to start over, change career lanes, and gain amazing work experience as a Student Engagement Program Coordinator at SFU.
Ever wonder what an interviewer is thinking during your interview? Here’s Bernice to give you a sneak peek thanks to her experience on an SFSS hiring committee!
Pamela Plantinga, BPK Behavioural Neuroscience student, took advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime invitation to a paid trip abroad and augmented it into a self-directed short-term dual internship experience in Nashville, Tennessee before going further abroad to Europe.
University, many people once told me, is the best time of your life. Yes, there is something to be said about being broke and stressed out with deadlines and exams.
“I always return to the words of Indigenous scholar, Eber Hampton, that we need to design an education system ‘worthy of our ancestors and our children,’” Read Deboarah's story of continuing education, determination and a drive to give back to the community.
Learn how those years of recreational sports can help you land the job of your dreams!
Clair Lam shares her tips on how to answer the dreaded interview question, "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" by finding out one's unique talent.
Seasoned co-op student Courtney McKinnon spent eight months as a Fundraising Coordinator and did a co-op with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Read Courtney's story to find out how you can make the most of your co-op!
"You need at least 2 years of work experience to get this (entry-level) position.” Learn how one student used volunteer blogging to gain that ever-so-important 2 years of experience and get a leg up in the professional world!
Who are the Engagement Peers and what makes this SFU volunteer experience unique? Jack interviews Albert Fung, Volunteer Services Coordinator about his experiences with this peer group.
Read about Kikuko's role as a chiropractic assistant at Mckenzie Chiropractic. During this co-op experience, they were able to assist with laser therapy, spinal decompressions and so much more!
You might have noticed some amazing co-op stories written by your fellow peers on the OLC, but have you ever considered sharing your story? Here are five reasons why you should write for the OLC.
When you think of an “interview”, do you normally think of a one on one interview? That’s what I used to think of. However, as a co-op student you might experience panel interviews. Read on to find out what you should know before a panel interview.
What is the role of a technical writer? And what do you do working as one? Communication Co-op student Brent Restivo answers these questions, outlines the workflow of a typical technical writing project and takes you step-by-step through an actual on-the-job scenario.
How do you land a co-op when you’ve only flipped burgers or only possess experience in an entry level position. Madison lists 5 helpful tips that she learned from the process of applying to co-op positions with little to no true professional experience. While it’s definitely harder, what’s life without a little challenge?
Before finding his first co-op placement, Shem Navalta found himself frustrated that his “ideal” job wasn’t available to him. In this post, Shem talks about his experience with searching for his first co-op job and provides advice on how to be open to opportunities that will help you grow.
Ever feel like interviews do not go your way, or they feel out of your control? Find the one thing you can control: your confidence! Natalie reflects on some of her old co-op interview experiences, and shares some strategies she has learned to bring confidence to your next interview.
Applying for jobs can seem tedious and through my experiences, I have compiled six tips that can help you improve your results and get noticed!
Moving through your work term, it is valuable to consider what you will take from your co-op experience that will benefit your future career. Kimberly Blair recommends keeping three things in mind: portfolio, contacts, and resume.
What’s your dream job? Like many students, Christina Guan has some big dreams. But her dreams actually became a reality this summer. Find out how this SFU student was able to utilize her skillset and land an internship of a lifetime.
Adrian Quiroz is a fourth year student of French, Linguistics, and Speech Sciences at Simon Fraser University. After teaching English in France, he wanted to share his tips for success. Read more to learn about Adrian's experience, and his invaluable tips!
Consider the benefits of doing an international co-op and exchange.
Walking into my first day of work for my co-op term at The Right Shoe, all I expected was just another retail job. But upon arriving at work, I quickly realized how much more informative and applicable to my degree the experience would be. What I thought would be just another retail experience turned out to be one of the most interesting, informative and relevant experiences of my life.
Asking your professors for reference letters is an important part of applying to professional programs, graduate programs, and scholarships, and it is a lot more complicated than just sending a quick email. Eric Cai explains how you can make this process easier for your professors, and more beneficial to you.
Natasha shares why she found waiting for the ‘right’ co-op was worth it for her. After a lot of determination and persistence, she was able to land a job that was worth all the hard work and spent an amazing summer at Options. Read Natasha's story for more insight!
Read on to find out why Karen took a step out of her comfort zone to embrace the unknown that is co-op.
Hesitant about doing an Out-of-Town or International Co-op? So was Mandy! But, opportunities come from all sorts of places. For Mandy, it was Kelowna, and the opportunity was too good to pass up. Read Mandy's tips on moving away, and getting accustomed to a new city.
Have you ever felt unsure of your major? As if maybe it is not what you really want to do for the rest of your life? These are questions Jose pondered over before his co-op with Lungpacer Medical Inc. and Kardium.
Do you ever think there are limitations to what you could do with your degree? I did. SFU co-op has allowed me to experience my major in action in a non-conventional way and it has forever changed the way that I look at my kinesiology degree.
Have you ever wondered whether future or current employers actually check your Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram before or after the interview? You might say that you’re safe; having already privatized all your accounts, but well the truth is...
If you don’t vote, you’re handing your future away to those who will be making decisions on everything from how much you’ll be paying back in student loans and taxes, to what kind of jobs and career opportunities you might find.
Panicking because you’re still undecided or unsure of your major? Keep calm and apply for a volunteer position! It can help you in more ways than one. Here’s how.
Do you find yourself discouraged and in need of advice? Do you find yourself procrastinating and wondering when the right time to get started on your career is? This article highlights the importance of starting early and some fun ways to get started.
Read about David Moloney, the Executive Vice President of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and someone who "“…can’t decide what he wants to do when he grows up,” as he shares with us his experience working in government.
I’ve always had a passion for helping people. For the longest time, I wasn’t sure how to apply this passion.
In this blog post, Heather shares with us why co-op is an important experience for all students, whether it be to further career aspirations or to gain future employment opportunities.
Being an arts and social sciences student means having a vast variety of career options open to us. One of them being a treaty negotiator at Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC)! Read Ryan's blog to find out more about what this position entails.
Read about Alison's co-op at Agriculture and Agri-food Canada and how this experience has changed some her expectations of working in the federal government sector!
Attending post-secondary school gives endless possibilities. However, choosing a major or career can be overwhelming to the point where people get swept away in passionless choices. Here is some of the personal advice of experienced SFU students to help you choose your future major or career.
Although important, your resume and cover letter don't do your skills complete justice. So, instead of simply telling a potential employer what you can do, Karen Leung discusses how to show them through selecting specific items to build your portfolio.
Timothy So is an Economics student who worked as a Statistical Methods Analyst at Blackberry. Read on to get a taste of what his position would entail.
Andrea takes on the non-profit world as a Community Services Assistant at the Progressive Housing Society.
Diana completed her first Co-op work term with the Mexican Consulate in Vancouver. Read on to find out how this experience has enhanced her skills!
Meet “Student Border Services Officer (SBSO) Umar”, who shares what her co-op was like at the Canada Border Services Agency.
Jaclyn Marshall shares why students considering a career in law enforcement should consider working for the RCMP as a co-op position.
Ronald spent his co-op working at the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy and describes the importance and benefits of working in the public sector.
Elinor worked in the External Relations Department of Parks Canada and explains how this was the right choice for her as an International Studies student.
Have you ever found yourself frustrated, disappointed and in despair after not attaining what you set out to achieve? This blog will explore some essential tips that you could use to bounce back from failure.
General Studies student Zahra did her co-op in Ottawa in a business role. She shares about her duties as a Program Coordinator. This article was originally published in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Summer 2012 newsletter.
Mihai starts their co-op at the Royal Canadian Mountain Police (RCMP) as an Informational Management Specialist Assistant. Read on to find out what they do and how they do it!
Victoria, student advisor for the Arts co-op program, shares her top four tips to help you become a more competitive candidate for today’s job search as a co-op student.