I knew I wanted to be a part of co-op the first time I attended the co-op information session in first year and I heard Lester Chan tell his story. I joined RUCSA the next month to get to know the co-op process better. The most important thing in getting into co-op is keeping your grades up. I had a 3.67 when I applied

My favourite co-op term so far was working at Vivint. I worked in direct sales and travelled across Canada with a team of 20. We worked in Halifax NS, Kingston ON, and Kelowna BC.

Sometimes I would go weeks without making a sale, and I would be there staring at myself in the mirror in the dorm rooms provided asking myself if I had what it takes to succeed. I struggled a lot, but it really developed my character and taught me what it meant to be grateful for what you have. I endured hardship.

By the end of the program I was consistently closing a few deals a week, which is nearly triple the weekly pay I was making at my last work term. I would take selfies with my customers afterwards and more than a few would tell me they were delighted with the customer service I provided to them a few days after.

At that point, I knew I had become good at my job, and I was being paid for my direct performance rather than just my presence at a desk. I've never felt prouder in my career

The main purpose of university is to graduate and get a good job, right? Co-op is the best way to fulfil that goal. My advice is to take risks with your co-op placements

Co-op Placements

1. Manulife - Project Coordinator (8 months)

2. Vivint Smart Home - Outside Sales Representative (4 months)