My journey was unique in the sense that it was difficult and easy. My program came with optional co-op, and I opted for it. My co-op was at Centennial College, which was a great level ground for me. After that, I searched for a job for two months, but at the same time, I attended many networking events. I revamped my resume and re-applied to jobs I hadn’t gotten responses from, and coincidentally my present company was one of them and reached back. Luckily, I found the right job at the right time.
I think what led to my success in finding a job was first knowing which field I wanted to be in. I knew I was going to either be a data analyst or research analyst because I love data and research. Also, I was open to any industry. I did a lot of research, I went to many networking events, I learnt a new skill, finished a certificate on Udemy to give an upper hand and applied to as many jobs. The main success will be I continued to work on myself to make me better.
Tips or advice for international students:
1. Be very Patient: Looking for a Job can be very frustrating. You have to be patient for the right job. I know it is easier said than the actual thing.
2. Network: People say network a lot, but it is the truth. Go for networking events in person or virtual. Connect on LinkedIn but don’t ask for a job in the first connection – form a relationship.
3. Resources: Centennial College has great resources for looking for a job. There is the ExperienceCentennial portal, resume writing and critiquing, interview prep (my favorite), connecting with alumni and so on. These resources are free and will help you. For my present job, I used the interview prep with Elizabeth, and she helped a lot. Also, use external resources, like Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, friends, neighbours, and family.
4. Be honest: No one will help you except yourself. No one owes you a job. Many people are competing for the same job, you have to be confident and stand out the right way. Apply for many jobs and one of them will come through. Good luck!