Co-op profile: Transferable skills
Caitlyn
4th year, Recreation and Business Co-op
Like many students, Caitlyn was curious about where a degree in Recreation might lead, so she chose the co-op system of study, hoping to gain experience and learn more about the industry. Now in her 4th year, Caitlyn’s work terms have defied conventional stereotypes and opened her eyes to the vast opportunities available to recreation and leisure professionals.
Her first co-op position was with the Multiple Sclerosis Society, where she helped coordinate fundraising activities for their Southwestern Ontario office. On her second term, Caitlyn worked for the Toronto District School Board as an Outdoor Education Intern. Her work facilitating teambuilding and outdoor educational activities for children helped drive home valuable lessons for Caitlyn. “I saw first-hand how outdoor education really improves children’s lives.”
The remainder of Caitlyn’s work terms were spent at Microsoft Canada, as a member of their Corporate and Community Affairs team. There, she supported Microsoft’s varied community initiatives including sponsorship and donation programs, employee volunteer programs, and community development partnerships with Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada (BGCC), Children’s Miracle Network, and JobStart Canada.
Her work at Microsoft sparked an interest in the technology industry, which Caitlyn intends to pursue following graduation. “When a lot of people think rec and leisure, they think ‘Okay, teacher, camp counsellor, working at a parks and rec department,’ but I was surprised to find myself feeling very at home in a tech company,” explains Caitlyn. “I’m still using my community development background to make a difference in people’s lives; I’m just doing it in a different context.”
As Caitlyn nears graduation, she has advice for students considering the Recreation co-op program. “Just do it!!” she says enthusiastically. “It was the best decision I ever made.” She credits a strong resume, built on a variety of volunteer experiences, as a huge asset in her initial job search. “As a first-time co-op student you may not have all the awesome work experience that upper-year students have, but it’s a great opportunity to showcase the skills you’ve gained in your volunteer and extra-curricular activities.”
