Co-op Student Success Stories/Testimonial

Why did you choose Co-op? I had two main reasons for choosing Co-op: my social anxiety and my fear of the unknown. I wanted to test the waters and see where a career in accounting could take me in a safe environment. I knew that if I waited to get an accounting job after graduation, I wouldn’t be able to change jobs every four months if I felt it wasn’t right for me.

What was your experience like? I had a great experience at both companies. They were very patient with me when I didn’t understand things and took the time to explain my tasks in detail. I really enjoyed attending team events because I was able to connect with people and talk about things other than work. This was a pleasant surprise for me, as I’m usually quiet and anxious.

Did it change your career outlook? After completing my three Co-op terms, I realized that I am interested in audit. Before this, I was quite confused because I didn’t want to make a decision without practical experience to back it up.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. I gained confidence in my abilities and started getting involved on campus through student clubs and case competitions. This was encouraged by professionals at work, who shared how important such experiences are for getting the most out of university.

Include advice for future students. Something I’m still working on, but believe is very important, is asking questions. Sometimes you can Google things, but at other times, it’s better to talk to a colleague. This not only helps you be more efficient, but it’s also an opportunity to connect with your co-workers. 

Why did you choose Co-op? I chose Co-op because it was an excellent way to gain real-world experience while still in university. I wanted to explore the IT field in a supportive environment and build my confidence before entering the job market full-time. It was also an opportunity to develop technical and soft skills that would prepare me for future roles.

What was your experience like? My experience was both challenging and rewarding. I had fantastic trainers who guided me with practical and theoretical knowledge. While the competition with another Co-op student pushed me to excel, I also faced difficult situations, such as navigating team dynamics when I was given responsibilities beyond my level. These challenges taught me resilience and adaptability.

Did it change your career outlook? Yes, my Co-op experience clarified my career path. It strengthened my technical skills, gave me exposure to various IT roles, and highlighted the importance of interpersonal skills in professional settings. It also motivated me to pursue further opportunities, leading to my current role at KPMG Canada.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. Co-op helped me grow both professionally and personally. I learned how to navigate a corporate environment, handle responsibilities under pressure, and adapt to new roles. The experience gave me the confidence to take on leadership roles and shaped my ability to work effectively in a team.

Include advice for future students. Be proactive in asking questions and learning from those around you. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and focus on building relationships with your colleagues. These experiences will not only help you during Co-op but will also prepare you for a successful career.  

Why did you choose Co-op? I wanted to gain work experience and industry knowledge early in my studies. KPU’s Co-op program, combined with support from teachers who prepared me professionally, helped me secure a position. 

What was your experience like? It was an eye-opening and rewarding experience. My supportive coworkers taught me a lot and helped me overcome my initial doubts. Their guidance and collaboration made a significant impact on my growth and confidence in the IT field.

Did it change your career outlook? Yes, it confirmed my passion for IT and helped me set my goal of becoming a software engineer in game development. This role allowed me to build a foundation by understanding how different programs and languages work.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. Co-op improved my confidence, adaptability, and teamwork skills. It also pushed me to explore real-world challenges, which clarified my career direction.

Include advice for future students. Build a diverse portfolio of experiences and use tools like the STAR method to present your skills effectively. Real examples, including hobbies, can show how you apply knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—learning and adapting during Co-op is key to growth.

Why did you choose Co-op? I chose Co-op to gain hands-on experience in computer information systems while still a student. It allowed me to bridge classroom learning with real-world application, preparing me for the workforce.

What was your experience like? My Co-op experience was transformative. My team shared their expertise, helping me enhance my technical skills and develop professionally. This environment boosted my confidence and gave me invaluable insights into the IT field.

Did it change your career outlook? Absolutely. After my Co-op, I returned to complete my diploma, and upon graduation, I was called back by BCLDB to join as a Customer Support Agent. This opportunity led to multiple promotions, including my most recent role as a Software Developer. Co-op provided practical experience, industry connections, and a clear path to my dream career.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. Co-op refined my technical skills, introduced me to new technologies, and taught me the value of teamwork and communication. It also instilled a strong work ethic, laying the foundation for my career progression.

Include advice for future students. I strongly recommend Co-op to every student. It’s an incredible way to gain practical experience, grow your professional network, and advance your career. Be proactive, ask questions, and seek feedback to make the most of the experience.

Why did you choose Co-op? As a business student, especially in accounting, it’s crucial to stay ahead in terms of experience and knowledge. I chose Co-op not only to differentiate myself from other students but also to test whether accounting was the right field for me.

What was your experience like? Both experiences were incredibly enriching. Working for a small business gave me insight into the entrepreneurial mindset and firsthand exposure to the challenges of running a business. At D&H Group, I gained substantial tax knowledge and learned from seniors about the CPA program. Experiencing a busy season was intense but invaluable for my growth.

Did it change your career outlook? Absolutely. Initially, I expected accounting to be purely repetitive. However, through mentorship, I discovered specializations like valuation, auditing, and consulting that require creativity and problem-solving. This expanded my perspective on the potential within accounting.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. Co-op was a stepping stone for my career. It helped me build my resume, refine my skills, and apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Talking with industry mentors gave me practical advice and a clearer vision for my future.

Include advice for future students. I highly recommend Co-op to every student. While finding your first position can be tough, persistence pays off. Apply widely on platforms like Career Connect, and don’t get discouraged. The experience is rewarding and sets a strong foundation for your career. 

Why did you choose Co-op? I decided to take Co-op after being convinced to pursue a bachelor’s degree instead of a diploma by friends in the IT industry. They highlighted the benefits of work experience, networking, and career advancements that I wouldn’t have gained otherwise, so I thought, why not?

Did it change your career outlook? Absolutely. Co-op opened up opportunities for me to work in government or explore other paths after graduation. It also helped me pay for my classes and learn new skills during the lockdown, things I never thought possible during COVID.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. Co-op gave me firsthand experience in the industry, helping me understand what a professional work environment is like. I learned to identify my strengths and weaknesses, gained confidence, and developed connections that will benefit my career.

Include advice for future students. If you’re eligible, Co-op is an incredible step toward your career goals. You’ll work in your industry, build connections, and get to test the waters while still in school. Just be mindful about balancing classes—I wouldn’t recommend taking three courses during a Co-op term! Take the leap, explore your options, and allow yourself to grow both personally and professionally with KPU’s Co-op program. 

Why did you choose Co-op? I chose a 12-month Co-op program to gain hands-on experience in Human Resources, assess if it aligned with my strengths, and understand what it takes to excel in HR. It also allowed me to expand my professional network and explore long-term opportunities with my co-op employer.

What was your experience like? The Co-op experience was insightful, allowing me to explore various HR functions and work on key projects. I gained autonomy, contributing to Ledcor’s social media branding and other important initiatives.

Did it change your career outlook? My Co-op experience solidified my interest in HR. It confirmed that this career allows me to use my strengths and pursue a fulfilling, long-term role. I now work full-time with Ledcor.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. Co-op boosted my confidence, improved my public speaking and communication, and helped me refine my career interests within HR. I’m also pursuing my CPHR designation to further my commitment to the HR field.

Include advice for future students. Be proactive and show initiative during your Co-op. It can be challenging to secure your first position, but persistence pays off. Regularly meet with your supervisor for feedback, and network outside your department to expand your professional connections. 

Why did you choose Co-op? I chose Co-op to gain real-world experience while still in school. The KPU Career Development Centre was the perfect fit for me, offering the chance to develop my skills as a social media and events assistant and set myself apart in the competitive job market.

What was your experience like? The experience was both challenging and exciting. I worked on social media campaigns and coordinated events on campus. I learned to manage my time effectively and prioritize multiple tasks. It was a great opportunity to develop skills in event planning and execution, which will be useful for my future career.

Did it change your career outlook? Absolutely! The Co-op experience gave me a taste of working in my field and solidified my career goals. It provided a new perspective on the industry and what it takes to succeed.

Share some observations about how Co-op impacted your personal growth and career goals. Co-op helped me grow both personally and professionally. It boosted my confidence, helped me develop new skills, and made me more self-aware. It also provided clarity on my career goals and gave me a clearer path toward achieving them.

Include advice for future students. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Co-op is a great chance to explore different career paths, build your network, and develop new skills. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone – you might discover a career you never considered before!  

Why did you choose Co-op? I chose Co-op to gain hands-on marketing experience while still in school. It was an opportunity to build confidence in my skills and improve my professional abilities.

What was your experience like? I worked on various tasks, such as creating social media guidelines, reaching out to employers, developing a website, and conducting surveys. The role allowed me to develop both professionally and personally, especially in communication and creativity.

Did it change your career outlook? Yes, it boosted my confidence and reassured me that I could apply my marketing skills in real-world scenarios. The feedback from my supervisor also helped me realize my potential in the field.

How did Co-op impact your personal growth and career goals? Co-op helped me hone professional communication, creativity, and confidence. I also expanded my network and found future employment opportunities. It led to promotions in my summer job, and I was promoted from camp counselor to Marketing Coordinator.

Advice for future students. Be proactive, embrace all opportunities, and step out of your comfort zone. Co-op is an incredible chance to grow both personally and professionally, so make the most of it.  

Why did you choose Co-op? I chose Co-op to explore the human resources field beyond the classroom and enhance my skills as an HR professional.

What was your experience like? My experience was outstanding. Microserve’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity made me feel welcome and part of the team. I worked on projects across departments, focusing on HR tasks that enhanced my technical and soft skills, including time management, communication, and using HRIS systems.

Did it change your career outlook? Yes, the co-op experience gave me a clear understanding of what a People and Culture Coordinator does on a day-to-day basis. It boosted my confidence and solidified my decision to pursue a career in HR.

How did Co-op impact your personal growth and career goals? The experience helped me improve my attention to detail, time management, and organizational skills. It also gave me a deeper understanding of HR processes, which positively impacted my personal growth and career development.

Advice for future students. I advise future HR students to stay open to learning, seek feedback, and take initiative. Identifying and solving problems can increase productivity and build relationships. Feedback is key to improving your strengths and enhancing your professional growth.