Flexibility is the name of the game for EDGE students
By: Matthew King (he/him)
Certificate program allows students to reap work-integrated learning rewards in unique environments.
Daniela Bredin is a fourth-year Global Business and Digital Arts (GBDA) student who is nearing completion of her EDGE certificate. She has held multiple positions with the EDGE team to meet the work or community experience requirements for the EDGE certificate program. Bredin’s most recent experience is working as the EDGE digital content co-ordinator.
With just her capstone workshop left to complete, Bredin shared her insights as both an EDGE participant and ambassador.
Why did you choose to take part in the EDGE certificate program?
“I am a huge advocate for trying out different career paths and I've always had a part-time job since I could work. I mainly joined EDGE because I felt like I was already completing the milestones.”
“I thought I might as well get a certificate for it and take a few additional courses and workshops to learn and develop my skills.”
How much of an impact did the flexibility EDGE allows appeal to you?
“When I first joined EDGE, I didn't really understand all the components of it. It wasn’t until I started working for EDGE that I realized everything that you have to do to complete it. It isn't a lot; it just takes a little bit of time.”
“Even with three terms left, seeing that I could get the certificate before graduating was exciting!”
You’re very close to graduating. What do you see as the next step in your career journey and did EDGE influence that at all?
“EDGE definitely helped me try out new careers and push myself to explore opportunities where I could develop a new skill. I pushed myself to apply for jobs that I was interested in and have a diverse range of experiences.”
“I've had so many jobs throughout my undergrad. I was a TA, a lifeguard and an event staff for Athletics. I've participated in a bunch of club opportunities as well, that would have counted for EDGE if I had known earlier. This is why we're trying to let students who are in EDGE know exactly what they need to complete to graduate with it.”
“I like to say that all those experiences were part of my EDGE journey because they were part of my integrated work experience where I'm learning and finding myself.”
“As a result, I'm now applying for marketing and events coordinator jobs after my experience with EDGE and looking to expand my portfolio.”
When you look back at your time working for EDGE, what is your proudest moment?
“I think finding ways to make the EDGE Instagram reach more followers. It's not just a numbers game. We truly want more registrations and people to be a part of this program.”
“I think I made a really big impact on the marketing techniques. And it was nice being an EDGE ambassador and connecting with people in person at booths. I also led a few EDGE information sessions, so I was able to speak to roughly 100 students at a time and walk them through the EDGE journey.”
“It's been really nice to see people's faces light up when they say, ‘Oh my gosh, I didn't realize we could complete it through coursework, an internship, a club or volunteer opportunity.’”
“I just really like that the program is flexible and encouraging to all.”