Yayaakshi Shokeen (she/her) is pursuing a Master of Management Science degree. She shares her experience of being a master’s co-op student and adjusting to the Canadian professional environment.
Yayaakshi's co-op journey:
Work terms one and two: At CGI, Yayaakshi was a project control officer. She was mainly responsible for project management, data analysis, client decks and creating business reports. She continues working with them part-time after her co-op term concluded.
Q&A with Yayaakshi:
What is it like being in a master’s co-op program?
“It’s been interesting. There’s always pros and cons but it’s been a positive experience. Most students in my cohort have around two years of professional work experience, so it was slightly jarring going back to being an intern when most of us were past the entry-level stage.”
“Of course, I wanted the relevant work experience, but it felt weird knowing that I had been on the other side of the table during interviews.”
“We were also applying for the same jobs as undergraduate students and we were worried that our overqualification might not work in our favour.”
“Recruiters might not need someone with those qualifications and may not want to pay more for a graduate-level student. Alternatively, however, it also meant that companies that wanted those skills were considerate and willing to compensate us fairly.”
How was the mentorship and support you received during your co-op term?
“My team leader was extremely accommodating and kind. My assigned office was in Markham, but she knew that it would be a hassle for me to move back and forth between there and Waterloo. She also understood that as an international student living on a budget, it would be more expensive for me to live in the GTA. So, she gave me complete control over my schedule and let me decide when I wanted to come into the office.”
“Everyone from the campus recruitment team to the onboarding team made me feel so valued and supported. No one turns you away or refuses to help, even if it’s not their domain. They will always point you in the direction of someone who can help.”
“Our company offered a mentorship program where co-op students could connect with an experienced professional in the organization and have one-on-one sessions with them. I was able to connect with an amazing mentor who coached me throughout my eight-month term. Not only is he now a solid professional connection and reference, but also a friend outside of work.”
What sort of challenges did you face during your work term?
“Understanding the work culture in Canada and trying to find my place here.”
“It took me some time to understand my role within the organization.”
“The great thing about CGI is that they give you almost complete autonomy over your work, but that also means that my manager did not know a great deal about the details of my role.”
“The onboarding wasn’t very smooth, but everyone was very helpful and patient.”
What’s next for you?
“My partner is joining me in Canada very soon, which I’m super excited about. We just got married in December and I’m happy to have him here. Apart from that, I’m just exploring my options and hoping to receive a full time offer for post-grad work soon.”