Skip to main content

Work & Volunteer

Work & Volunteer

We know you’re working hard to go the extra mile.

 Facebook icon LinkedIn icon Twitter icon

Welcome

Knowing that working and volunteering go hand-in-hand with life at SFU, you will find stories below with practical advice regarding workplace success, remote working, adjusting to a workplace culture and how to overcome common workplace challenges. We all need to gain experience in a given field in order to reach great success. So, whether you need help with time management and productivity, or are learning effective ways to cultivate an open work or volunteer environment, you're bound to find great resources on navigating new and familiar circumstances.

Representation of Networking - clusters of multicoloured board game pieces
Essential Networking Techniques for Thriving in a New Role

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

An image of Pawandeep sitting at a home work station
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. 

An image of Harsmeep
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. 

Author's image
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.

 

Aisuluu at work showing her credentials
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. 

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?

Two girls standing looking very happy
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.

Convocation procession at SFU
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.

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.

Vanshita standing in front of a wall with the SAP logo
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.

A phone on the home screen where the apps for Twitter, Facebook and Instagram can be seen
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.

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.

Headshot of Yeow
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.

Abu standing next to a screen that says "Limitless"
Why Pursue a Career in Sales

This article is my take on why somebody would pursue a career in sales. I have never done sales in my life, and I like to take on new challenges. Therefore, it allows me to elaborate on the skills I have learned throughout my journey.

John standing in front of parliament building
Interview with an MA Economics Co-op Student

Meet John Owusu, an SFU Master of Economics Co-op student. In this quick Q&A, John shares a bit about his co-op experience. Keep on reading as John shares how his mindset helped him at his position, what his schedule was like and how he overcame feeling nervous at the workplace.

A laptop and a book at a desk
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.

A table decorated with a book and tablet with a pen hovering over
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

An image of Kelly Chiang
Transitioning From Study to Work Life

As a fifth year Health Science Co-op Student, Kelly Chiang shares her advice for students interested in integrating valuable work experience with their classroom learning.

Shehahn along with four of his co-workers smiling for a group photo
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.