‘A thrilling journey of discovery’: Inaugural Social Sciences Co-op students reflect on their work terms

Over the summer of 2024, the first cohort of Social Sciences co-op students embarked on their inaugural work terms. Launched in 2023, Social Sciences offers co-op programs in Economics, Political Science and Work and Labour Studies. Students from the three co-op programs gained valuable work experience in workplaces across Southern Ontario and beyond. We caught up with some of the first cohort to see how impactful their co-op terms were.

Aditya Arora, Honours Economics Co-op
Premium Research Services Intern, Yes Securities Limited (India)

My co-op experience was a thrilling journey of discovery. I found that I not only enjoy but excel in analytical, fast-paced environments. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, particularly in asset allocation and portfolio management, was a source of great excitement for me. One of my most significant accomplishments was developing an asset allocation model that optimized returns while minimizing risks. This model, which earned positive feedback from the head of equity strategy, was a testament to my ability to thrive in such environments. It solidified my interest in asset management and portfolio optimization, while also highlighting the importance of FinTech and data-driven decision-making in finance, shaping my career direction towards these fields.

Paul Bampoe, Honours Economics Co-op
Clerk Assistant, Town of Oakville

During my time at the Town of Oakville, I found it very rewarding to work on contract management and contract tracking. Being able to take raw data, sort, understand and present the data was a major step in my skill development and was very rewarding. It gave me exposure to long term project management and the ability to work with multiple different stakeholders in solving a complex problem.

To students considering co-op, I would say ‘Do it!’ It’s a little extra work every week but it pays dividends. If you put in the work, you will be rewarded. It can be daunting to have it all figured out immediately but through exposure to different roles, you get a fair understanding of where you want to or don’t want to end up.

Danusia Banek, Honours Political Science Co-op
Sales and Client Relations, WickerPark Patio Furniture

Students are capable of so much and I love the idea of co-op because it brings you out of your academic/professional comfort zone and allows you to extend your learning past the classroom. You are given the opportunity to find out how much you can accomplish, and believe me, it’s so much more than you think! I am now beginning my third year with a comprehensive understanding of what job searches and professional careers look like, which I know will help make the transition from the end of my academia-life into the workforce that much smoother. I am excited for the next term, to grow my confidence even further!

Faria Haque, Honours Political Science Co-op
Communications Assistant, McMaster University Social Sciences Faculty Office

During my co-op work term this summer at McMaster University, I worked as a communications assistant, focusing on migrating websites for the Faculty of Social Sciences. I collaborated with the communications team to update and optimize marketing websites for various departments, ensuring a seamless transition and enhanced user experience. Undertaking a co-op as a communications assistant taught me a lot of skills, like how to use WordPress, organize effectively, and manage my time better. These are important skills that can help me further progress to my dream career. Co-op gave me the opportunity to build and develop new skills, it allowed me to find a career that is fit for me, and therefore by the time I graduate I will already have the proper set of skills, and connections to get to the place I want to be in my career.

Sabrina Lee, Honours Political Science Co-op
E-Commerce Advisor, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

My co-op experience with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) was really incredible. My role as an e-commerce advisor supported the OCC’s mission to accelerate digital transformations among Canadian SMEs. I enjoyed working alongside my peers and furthering my collaborative skills by working in multiple different teams on various assignments. I am proud of my contributions on a detailed AI research report, researching various social impact conferences around the world, and conducting cold calls to numerous SMEs. This work term has made me even more excited for future work terms and allowed me to experience a fully remote job. I enjoyed this role and am eager to pursue similar ones in the future, while also being open to branching out.

Emmalee Parago, Honours Political Science Co-op
Attraction and Development, Economic Development with the City of Hamilton

Over the summer I worked at Hamilton City Hall on the economic development team. It was my first time working in an office which inevitably was quite nerve wracking. Thankfully, I was welcomed immensely by my team and colleagues and found a real passion with working in governance. Being a political science student, I was quite skeptical about working in anything “economic” related, but it turned out to be an amazing experience. My advice to anyone wanting to join the co-op program, or who is going to be looking for a co-op in the near future is to apply everywhere! Any experience is good experience, and this program will expose you to so many new paths and connections you didn’t even know about.

Arshiya Alam, Honours Economics Co-op
E-commerce Digital Advisor, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

This co-op term was an invaluable experience for me, not only as it is my first official job in a corporate setting, but also because it had given me the opportunity to discover various strengths I was not aware I had. More specifically, I discovered a passion for digital marketing during my work at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce as an e-commerce advisor, and I can definitely see myself pursuing this field further in the future as well.

Kashish Modi, Honours Work & Labour Studies Co-op
E-Commerce Advisor, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

As you head into your first co-op term, embrace every opportunity to learn by asking questions and seeking feedback from your supervisors. Building relationships with your colleagues and networking can open doors for future opportunities, so don’t hesitate to connect with others. Stay organized, manage your time well, and be willing to step outside your comfort zone to take on new challenges!