The StFX Co-op Program was instrumental in helping me choose my career path. Throughout the first two years of my business degree, I was set on one company and career direction. Fast forward to my third year at university, where I had the opportunity to complete an 8-month paid work term with this company. I quickly discovered that this was not the career path I wanted. This experience was invaluable because it allowed me to test out a potential career option without committing fully. I learned so much about myself, my field of study, and what I wanted for my future!
Following this 8-month placement, I realized I wanted to be in a more client-facing role, so I reached out to a local financial advisor. I worked with him on a 6-week project in my third year, and I’ve been with the company ever since. I am now a fully licensed financial advisor with Bellwether Family Wealth, a part of Bellwether Investment Management.
The Co-op Program provided me with invaluable skills in networking and demonstrated the importance of staying connected within your community and business network. It also helped me improve my work-life balance as I was working full-time while also taking courses. Now, in my current job, I continue to work full-time while taking courses to achieve my Certified Investment Manager (CIM) designation.
My advice to current and future co-op students is to get out there—try the job you’re unsure about, talk to the professionals you admire in your field of study, and network, network, network. Co-op provides a safe space as well as the opportunity to perfect your interviewing, job application, and networking skills.
