Navigating Co-op and Networking: Insights from Stephanie Lee and Lauren Galeana

In my Digital media marketing seminar class on 12th September, I got to meet 2 George Brown College Alumni Stephanie Lee and Lauren Galeana shared there valuable experiences and advice on Co-op internships and networking, offering insights for students looking to make the most of their academic journey and job search.

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Starting Early and Staying Open-Minded:

Both speakers emphasized the significance of starting the job search early. Stephanie secured her Co-op position by February for a summer term, underscoring the advantages of early preparation. Lauren, who completed three Co-op terms, also echoed the sentiment, highlighting the competition students face when applying later.

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Moreover, Stephanie and Lauren underscored the importance of remaining open-minded in their job searches. Stephanie initially had no specific interest involved ?the medical field, yet her flexibility allowed her to discover a unique Co-op opportunity in medical line. Lauren explored different industries throughout her Co-op terms, demonstrating how versatility can lead to diverse learning experiences.

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Genuine Networking:

Stephanie and Lauren both stressed the significance of authentic networking. Stephanie's experience of securing a job through a former classmate highlights the value of genuine connections. Building relationships based on authenticity, offering help, and leaving a positive impression can result in unexpected opportunities.

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Lauren emphasized the importance of networking during Co-op terms. She urged students to maintain professional relationships with supervisors and colleagues as these connections can lead to future job opportunities. Additionally, Lauren highlighted the role of professors as valuable networking resources. Building strong relationships with educators can open doors to mentorship and industry insights.

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Continuous Learning and Value Addition:

Stephanie shared her commitment to continuous learning and value addition. During her Co-op, she actively sought opportunities to enhance her skills and contribute more to her role. This approach not only benefited her but also made her a memorable and valuable team member.

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Lauren's experience reinforced the idea of continuous improvement. She advised students to identify their strengths and weaknesses and actively work on areas that need development. Additionally, Lauren highlighted the importance of setting clear goals during Co-op terms to maximize the learning experience.

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Setting Up for Co-op Success:

To prepare for Co-op success, students should adopt several strategies:

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·?????? Early Start: Starting the job/internship search early can increase the chances of securing opportunities before the competition intensifies.

·?????? Flexibility: Remaining open-minded about industries and positions can lead to unexpected yet valuable learning experiences.

·?????? Genuine Networking: Building authentic connections based on helping others and making positive impressions is essential for expanding one's professional network.

·?????? Thorough Research: Conduct extensive research on organizations and industries to identify potential opportunities.

·?????? Strong Online Presence: Optimize online profiles and engage with relevant professionals to enhance visibility and network effectively.

·?????? Seek Guidance: Consult professors, career advisors, and alumni for insights into the job market and effective job search strategies.

·?????? Skill Enhancement: Identify skills gaps and invest time in online courses or workshops to improve one's skillset, increasing attractiveness to employers.

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Learning for Networking:

Stephanie and Lauren's experiences reinforce that networking should focus on building genuine connections rather than mere contact collection. Authenticity, helping others, and making lasting impressions can lead to unforeseen opportunities. Cultivating authentic relationships and maintaining a professional online presence are key to successful networking.

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After listening to Stephanie Lee and Lauren Galeana students got valuable insights embarking on Co-op internships and networking journeys. Their experiences emphasize the importance of starting early, staying open-minded, networking authentically, and continuously enhancing one's skills. These strategies, when applied, can contribute to successful Co-op experiences and fruitful networking endeavors.