Edited by: Jina Aryaan
After being accepted into the Neuroscience Co-op program at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC), I had to attend a series of co-op specific courses aimed to helping me develop my resume/cover letter writing, networking and job search skills. The program was challenging, as I had to juggle a full course load while simultaneously seeking for a co-op position. Like many other students in the same program, there were moments when I was so stressed out that I wondered: “Is this all worth it?”. Now that my work term is coming to an end, I finally have an answer: Yes, it was definitely worth it.
For the last eight months, I’ve held a research position at a Toronto hospital where I’ve been involved in a multitude of projects. I have had the pleasure of working with a team of individuals who have nurtured my skills and allowed me to grow as a professional. The experiences I’ve gained throughout this time have been invaluable, and I encourage anyone who has an opportunity to engage with a co-op or similar program, to do so. For students at the UofT St. George campus, some majors offer a Professional Experience Year (PEY).
I would like to share five things that I’ve learned on my work term in regards to the professional world (and yes they’re all super cliché, but super helpful nonetheless):
1. Seek Unexpected Opportunities
When searching for a co-op position or other professional opportunity, definitely pick a job that you connect to (albeit on paper), but don’t go in with too many expectations. Chances are you will have the opportunity to get involved in a ton of unexpected projects that you didn’t know would be available to you. Don’t cut out a position from your shortlist because you think specific projects or tasks won’t be offered at that organization. Talk to the interviewer or the person who will be your supervisor and ask about getting involved in some unlisted projects during your time there.
2. Put yourself out there
I’ve personally always been intimidated in networking situations because I don’t like the idea of having to “sell” yourself. However, one of the things I’ve learned over the past eight months is that more often than not, people are genuinely interested in getting to know you and hearing about where you come from, as well as what your future goals are. You don’t have to look at every situation as a networking opportunity, just put yourself out there and introduce yourself for nothing more than to learn something interesting about the other person!
3. Go above and beyond
If you want to get the most of your position, don’t just do the bare minimum to get by. I’ve found that by showing initiative and seeking out more responsibility, I’ve been given the opportunity to get involved in projects that aren’t usually offered to co-op students. If you ask around and show genuine interest, the people you work with will be more than happy to show you the ropes or let you shadow them. This is a great way to develop new skills or learn more about a field outside the scope of your position.
4. Don’t be afraid to fail (and fail again)
It can be nerve-wracking to take on a project that you’ve never had to do before. Don’t set yourself up for failure if you don’t think you’re ready, however, if you’re properly trained and ask the right questions – take a chance at completing the project! If something goes wrong (and eventually something will), don’t be afraid to take a second (and third and fourth) stab at it. You’re a student and everyone knows you’re still learning, they will understand if and when a project doesn’t go as planned. If you own up to your mistakes, the people you work with will be more than happy to help you grow your skills until you can complete those types of projects flawlessly.
5. Be open to trying new things
Even if you thought you’d never be interested in doing certain tasks, you might find a hidden skill once you’ve had the chance to do them. Don’t limit yourself to your own personal or academic interests. If a project comes your way which you might be less excited for, make an effort to take it on and put 100% of yourself into it. Even if it still isn’t your thing once you’ve tried it, people will be thankful both for your help and for being open to trying something new. Bonus: you’ve walked away with experience in a new field!
In addition to giving you a short list of things that are “easier said than done”, I’ll leave you with just one more slice of wisdom: You don’t need to be in a co-op or similar program to find interesting professional opportunities that will develop you academically and professionally. If you put yourself out there and are open to trying new things – you will find great opportunities.