Career Options Magazine Fall 2009

career optionsFor Canadian Post-seCondary students

www.careeroptionsmagazine.comFall/winter 2009 / Volume 23 no. 2

co

aVoiding Common interView PitFalls

aPPlying For graduate sChool

Careers in health

06

14

26

you’re on yourway: strategies to succeed at career fairs

Career OptiOns fall/winter 2009 1

career options Fall/winter 2009

06avoiding common interview pitfallsBy Kristen Stolze

08maximize your return on educational investment in a recessionBy Sean Junor

10creating your online brandBy Patti Church

12career fairs: a piece of your job search puzzleBy Panagiota Panagakos

14applying for graduate schoolBy Dorothy Ritz

17boning up on money managementBy Angela Fennelow

20résumé writing: from good to greatBy Mary Giamos

24career fair datesBy the Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers

25career fair guideBy Anne Markey

26careers in healthBy Anne Markey

33getting the job you want – putting your best foot forwardBy Gina John and Carol Evenson

36the “where” factorBy Karen Gallant

41first year of full-time: adjusting tips & moreBy Zahraa Al-Ali

43how i am making the transition from student to professionalBy Erica Simmonds

46cacee ethical recruitment guidelinesBy the Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers

<< the “super” image gracing our cover this month is by gabrielle beer, winner of the first-ever career options photo contest. gabrielle recently graduated from the professional photo-imaging program at langara college in vancouver. congratulations!

2 fall/winter 2009 www.CareerOptiOnsmagazine.COm


career options

managing editor

Anne Markey

project management – gordongroup

Kita Szpak

art direction / print management – gordongroup

Leslie Miles

design & layout – gordongroup

Dominika Kowalczyk

advertising sales direction – gordongroup

Thomas Krayer

advertising sales – gordongroup

Fred Hanson Kirill Kornilov

contributors

Zahraa Al-Ali Patti Church Carol Evenson Angela Fennelow Karen Gallant Mary Giamos Gina John Sean Junor Panagiota Panagakos Dorothy Ritz Erica Simmonds Kristen Stolze

Career Options is published bi-annually in January and September by the Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers (CACEE),

720 Spadina Avenue, Suite 202, Toronto ON M5S 2T9.

for subscription information, contact anne markey:

Tel: 416-929-5156 ext. 223 Fax: 416-929-5256E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.careeroptionsmagazine.com

for advertising inquiries, contact thomas krayer, director of sales, gordongroup:

Tel: 613-234-8468 ext. 223 Fax: 613-234-8655E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.gordongroup.com

ISSN: 1712-1183

The Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers (CACEE) is a national, non-profit partnership of employer recruiters and career services professionals. Our mission is to provide authoritative information, advice, professional development opportunities and other services to employers,

career services professionals and students.

Career Options is distributed to students at post-secondary institutions across Canada. Career Options is available free of charge through

campus career centres.

NOTE: The opinions expressed within are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect CACEE policy. No part of this magazine may be reproduced

in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher.

The National Student Resource of:Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers

720 Spadina Ave., Suite 202Toronto ON M5S 2T9

www.cacee.com

editor’s letter

w elcome to the Fall/Winter 2009 edition of Career Options! Thank you for picking up the magazine. You’re sure to find it informative as you move forward with career or employment planning. Career Options will

be a valuable resource for you as you transition from post-secondary education to the working world.

Career Options is unique in that it’s created just for Canadian college and university students. The information is tailored to meet your requirements. The advertisers contribute because they want to let you know about real opportunities in their organizations. In fact, Career Options is the one publication where the ads are as invaluable as the articles!

In this issue, employer representatives from Loblaw, Camco and Sun Life Financial provide advice on how to land the job you want. Recent graduates Erica Simmonds and Zahraa Al-Ali discuss their transition from student life to the working world. And I have prepared a list of careers in healthcare that includes alternatives to being a doctor or a nurse—not that there’s anything wrong with those career paths!

By the time you read this, our new website, www.careeroptionsmagazine.com, should be live! The site is designed to continue and expand on the topics and connections made in the print magazine. You’ll be able to share your views on the articles, submit articles of your own, read and comment at the “Speak to an Expert” blog spot, and interact with employers at the Connect Zone. The Career Options website is live, interactive, and here for you to use as you make your own school-to-career transition!

Lastly, I want to draw your attention to the photo on the cover of the current issue, and to introduce the photographer: Gabrielle Beer was the winner of the photo contest held by Career Options and CACEE over the summer. Contest entrants were asked to submit images related to post-secondary education and careers.

We’ll be holding another installment of the contest beginning at the end of this month for the Winter/Spring 2010 issue. Aspiring photographers, stay tuned!

Anne Markey,Editor



22 ATB Financial

i ATCO Group

22 B.C. Hydro

48 Brenntag Canada

31 British Columbia Transmission Corporation

39 Canadian Supply Chain Sector Council

30 Certified Management Accountants

50 CGA Ontario

32 Communitech: Waterloo Region Technology Association

09, 42 Concordia University College of Alberta

48 Desjardins

47 Durham Regional Police Services

34 Enterprise Rent-A-Car

28 Fairmont Hotels and Resorts

48 Hire Canada Inc.

38 Home Depot

49 Humber College Business School

47 Imperial Oil

15 JobMire

16 Insight Canada Inc.

44 Insurance Brokers Association of Canada (IBAC)

48 JET Programme

01 Mining Industry Human Resources Council

32, 47 National Energy Board

48 Naylor-McLeod Group

42 New Flyer Industries

45, 48 Nexen

05, 47 Queen's University

02 RCMP

13 Shell Canada

36, 47 Student Work Abroad Program

19 Sun Life Financial

04, 47 Talisman Energy

11 The Canadian Payroll Association

16 Yellow Pages Group

we would like to thank our advertisers…



Have you ever had an interview that you thought

went well and then found out you didn’t get the

job? Did you ponder what you could have done

differently? Did you wonder what the interviewer

really thought? The interview is usually the factor

in the recruitment process that determines

whether or not you get the job, so strong interview

performance is crucial. Let’s look at some

common interview errors and how to avoid them.

1 listenA mistake that candidates often make is deciding

in advance what they want to talk about in the

interview, regardless of the questions being

asked. Preparing answers that highlight your

skills is important, but don’t let your prepared

answer distract you from the actual question.

In an interview setting, there is nothing wrong

with jotting the question down and taking a few

moments to formulate your answer. If you didn’t

understand the question, ask for clarification.

When asked a question, provide relevant

examples that allow the interviewer to picture you

in the job. An answer that gives one complete

example is more effective than an answer that

gives multiple shorter examples. Listen carefully to

the question and ensure that your answer relates

to what is being asked of you.

2 be confident but not boastfulIn an interview, you want to present yourself as

the best candidate for the job; you don’t want to

come across as arrogant or boastful. Confidence

is essential, but be careful not to overstep this

fine line. Communicate your skills, knowledge and

eagerness to learn, taking care not to imply that

you already “know it all.”

3 review the job descriptionAnother common error is not thoroughly reviewing

the job description prior to the interview. When

applying to multiple jobs, especially jobs with a

similar title, don’t assume that job descriptions

from different companies are comparable. The

role of a marketing analyst at one company might

be quite different from a marketing analyst at

another company. A comprehensive review of

the job description will allow you to answer the

interview questions in the best way possible and

to ask informed and insightful questions. You

don’t want to ask a question about something

that is stated in the job posting. It’s also helpful

to think about relevant examples that relate to

job responsibilities.

4 remain positive about current or past experiences and employersCriticizing a current or past employer or manager

comes across as immature and demonstrates a

lack of professionalism. It can also suggest an

inability to work with others or to deal with difficult

situations. Use tact and diplomacy to convey

messages about less favourable experiences.

5 prepare questionsInterviewers often conclude an interview by asking

if the candidate has any questions. Responding

with a simple “no” may give the impression that

you aren’t passionate about the company or the

job. Prepare several potential questions about the

company and the position. If you’re interested in

the environment, for example, ask if the company

is pursuing any environmental initiatives. Perhaps

the company has just launched a new product;

ask about it. Inquire about the office culture or

what your first few tasks on the job might be.

Choose your questions carefully in order to display

your knowledge of the company and confirm your

interest in the job. Select your questions based on

the tone of the interview. Make sure you don’t ask

a question that was already answered.

Never underestimate the importance of the

interview. It’s an opportunity for you to “sell”

yourself and demonstrate your potential value to

the employer. Always prepare, and be honest,

professional and positive. co

avoiding commoninterview pitFalls

By Kristen StolzeGrad Program Manager,

Loblaw Companies Limited


the current global recession is a foreign

concept for the majority of young

Canadians. Those of us who were still

children during the last recession in

the early 1990s have witnessed nothing but robust

economic times and strong labour markets for

nearly 15 years. But that all changed in the fall

of 2008, as the perfect economic storm rolled in

and eliminated many perceived certainties. The

U.S. housing market bubble burst. The global

financial sector fell into chaos. Stock markets

and commodity prices took a nosedive. North

American auto makers, already struggling, were

forced to the brink of collapse. All of these factors

resulted in a downward spiral for the labour market.

There was once a time when job seekers could

simply dictate their terms and conditions of

employment to desperate employers, but the

downturn has made it appear that those days are

over. Gone too are the days of quitting one job to

walk across the street for another, better-paying

position. The balance has also shifted at today’s

job and career fairs, as fewer companies from

a smaller range of industries participate, and

the numbers of job seekers swell. It seems the

scales have been reset, and now appear to be

weighted in favour of the employer, rather than

the prospective employee. What does this mean

for you?

first and foremost, don’t panic. Post-secondary students today still have

employment options—they’re reduced, yes, but

options are still out there. It is important to note

that the current domestic recession has not

spread equally across regions or occupational

sectors in Canada. Ontario, Alberta and British

Columbia are bearing the brunt of the economic

downturn. Saskatchewan and many parts of

Atlantic Canada still have pockets of employment

growth. Even inside the provinces hardest hit,

there are glimmers of hope as major urban

centres are faring much better than northern,

rural or remote communities. Employment

in health-related fields shows little signs of

prolonged weakness. The massive stimulus

spending currently being undertaken by provincial

governments and the Government of Canada will

result in new opportunities in the construction

sector for tradespeople, technicians and engineers.

In addition, public sector employment (government,

law enforcement) will continue to expand.

second, have a plan. Do some research

on what companies and industries are remaining

relatively strong in the current economic

climate. There are now over 30 sector councils

(www.councils.org/en/) in Canada representing

almost every industry, and each council is

dedicated to producing employment information

and promoting careers on behalf of that

industry. Examine recent Manpower Research

labour market reports. Manpower documents

employment trends in jurisdictional and industrial

sectors by quarter for Canada, and often has

some good emerging employment information.

Make use of provincial and federal employment

resources (e.g., www.labourmarketinformation.ca,

www.saskjobs.ca, www.albertajobs.com). Finally,

examine some of the new online tools being

created for graduates. Talent Egg (http://talentegg.ca)

is one such example and a nice starting point for

job seekers familiar with social marketing sites.

third, stand out from the crowd. This

means that you need to work a little harder on

your employee value proposition. Employers

have spent the past decade branding and

re-branding to appeal not just to customers, but

also to future employees. Now it’s your turn.

Treat every interaction with a potential employer

like an interview. Ask thoughtful questions. Feel

free to inquire about hiring plans for the year.

Keep in mind that paid employment is only one

way into a company. Some companies offer

internships; others may be happy to book you

for an informational interview with a specific

occupational representative. Remember that your

abilities, competencies, knowledge and skills

are assets that set you apart from your peers. It

is important to display both hard and soft skills.

Previous employment or volunteer experience

needs to be packaged or positioned to assist your

personal pitch. Dressing the part is also important:

maximize your return on educationalinvestment in a recession

By Sean Junor

“ employers have spent the past decade branding and re-branding to appeal not just to customers, but also to future employees. now it’s your turn. ”


present yourself professionally for every interaction with a potential

employer by ditching the blue jeans and t-shirt in favour of a collared

shirt and dress pants. You only get one chance at making a first impression.

fourth, pound the pavement—literally and figuratively. Attend

career fairs or information sessions on campus. Come to those sessions

well prepared and be ready to ask questions to staff representatives. Feel

free to approach the staff offline, ask them a series of additional questions,

interview them about their company, or even drop names. Make whatever

connection you can within reasonable boundaries. Remember, companies

who spend time at your school are usually there for a reason: a successful

history of recruiting. Conduct advance research on the companies with

which you are interested in securing summer or full-time employment. Talk

to previous graduates or professors about the company. Find an alumni

connection within the company and see if they can assist you in gaining a

leg up in the organizational employment process. Learn some history and be

aware of key things like the geographic locations and industry involvement

for each company of interest. Nothing is more frustrating than hearing your

company name mispronounced or wrongly identified by so-called informed

job seekers.

The hints documented in this article are just suggestions. Graduates

looking to successfully enter the labour market would be wise to leverage

all their contacts, skills and experience. In the end, job seekers possess

a commodity—their work—that employers need, today and in the future.

The tricky part is executing the buy and sell. co

sean junor is Senior Specialist –

Workforce Planning, at Cameco

Corporation.


creating your

online

BrandBy Patti c

hurch


let’s face it: we have all felt the impact of

branding efforts by businesses, schools,

politicians and entertainers. Their goal

is to create an emotional response, to

engage us, to compel us to act. Because of the

strong Starbucks brand, many of us believe that their

specialty coffees are worth $5. As consumers, we

buy into brands and believe there is value in their

product offerings.

In the past, a brand was defined by advertising

and carefully crafted messages delivered through

traditional media. Today, a brand is shaped and

developed by its actions and engagement with

different audiences as much as by advertising and

key messages. The Internet has fundamentally

changed how brands are defined and maintained.

Blogs, YouTube and Twitter are three communications

vehicles people use to rant, rave or complain about a

product, service or person.

Whether you realize it or not, you have an online

“brand,” too. Do you have a Facebook or MySpace

account? Do you comment on blogs? Have you tried

out Twitter? When you post content, engage others

or share information about yourself on the Web, you

are creating a unique identity—branding yourself, in

a sense.

In your job search, it’s important that the personal

brand you present is professional and has a strong

message about you to offer employers. According

to Monster.com, 77% of employers will Google

you. Why? Because they need to manage risk

and find the right candidates. The hiring process is

time-consuming and expensive, so making the

right staffing decision is critical. In many cases,

what they can learn about you online will affect their

final decision. It’s important to Google yourself and

become strategic about your online image.

The advent of blog software and social media tools

(Flickr, Twitter, Whyhire.me, LinkedIn, Facebook,

YouTube, etc.) presents a new opportunity for you

to take control of your personal brand. Along with

your printed résumé, flashy business card, firm

handshake, well-researched conversation points and

well-crafted cover letters, you have a new tool to use

in your job search: the Personal Uniform Resource

Locator, or PURL.

what’s a purl?Plain and simple, a PURL is a personal web address

that you can share with employers, and that can

be found via a Google search. Twitter jumped

on the notion of a personal Twitter page. Facebook

recently introduced vanity URLs for its members.

Although many of these new communication tools

have the capacity for a PURL that allows for Google

to find you easily—which is the end goal—it’s also

important to consider buying your personal domain

name, and to grab your account name on many of

these new social networks. The more accounts you

have with consistent use of your name, the more

links and connections to you Google will make, and

the easier it will be to find your content when an

employer searches your name.

For new graduates, your online brand should include

both traditional résumé elements and detailed

project experiences that leverage photos, videos,

references, links and more. Integrating blogging,

Twitter, Flickr, YouTube or Vimeo, WhyHire.me and

LinkedIn will also demonstrate your engagement

with a chosen course of study, future career

interests, an industry sector or a company that

brings out your passion.

why should you care?The Internet offers you an opportunity to create

an impression of your skills, experiences and

overall potential. Your personal brand can now

communicate and engage your possible employer

throughout the interview process. The ultimate

aim of developing your online brand is to help

differentiate yourself from the competition and to

establish a deeper and more meaningful connection

with the hiring manager and his or her colleagues.

Think about a traditional printed résumé, with a

nice-looking font, printed on crisp paper. The

challenge that most graduates face is that their

résumé lacks employment experience and depth.

When the employer sees a stack of printed résumés,

they all begin to look the same.

So how do you stand out? With branding and

differentiation: two proven marketing tactics long

practised by businesspeople of all types, including

celebrities, musicians, politicians and sports stars.

Branding is all about creating an emotional

connection. Your online brand, correspondence,

appearance and behaviour during your interviews

will ultimately shape how you are perceived.

Include your PURL in your cover letter, your résumé

and your business cards. Take the opportunity to

reference your online brand during the interview.

When you draft your thank-you e-mails, point out

one of your online contributions or opinions that

reinforces the impression you would like to leave

behind. Show them you are engaged and passionate

about their business and that you can help solve

their business problems.

stay committed—it will pay offPersonal branding requires a commitment of a few

hours each month—a small price to pay given the

overall investment you have already made in your

education. As you develop your brand online through

school, your first job and beyond, it will attract more

traffic through cross-linking with others in your

field. In time, your name and PURL will rise to the

top of Google search, opening the door to more

opportunities for you. co

patti church is a co-founder of Whyhire.me,

a social media portal dedicated to personal

branding. She is also a part-time instructor

at Algonguin College. You can find her at

whyhire.me/patti_church.


stop complaining about online recruitment systems—get face time at a career fairCareer fairs offer an excellent opportunity for you

to obtain first-hand knowledge about the careers

and industries that interest you. As a participant in

a career fair, your objective is to build relationships

with company representatives who can provide

you with valuable information and/or referrals to

potential job openings.

Maxine Dubuc, Manager, Community Based

Learning and Career Development at Huron

University College, believes students should

consider career fairs as a component of

their overall job search strategy because of

the relationships they will build. “Next time you

go to a networking event such as an information

session, you may recognize someone [company

representative] you met at a career fair and

you’ll be able to talk to them on a more

familiar basis.” Career fairs are not just

about getting a job, they’re about building

contacts within organizations and developing

those relationships.

Remember that first impressions are lasting ones:

being properly prepared for a career fair will

ensure that you leave company representatives

with a positive impression of you.

hit the ground running—prepare by conducting researchYour goal at a career fair is to get noticed. During

these events, company representatives are literally

meeting hundreds of students. The way to stand

out is by being prepared. “Career fairs are about

having quality meetings versus quantity [number

of employers] meetings,” advises Angie Paisley,

Career Advisor, Hired Career Services at Durham

College and the University of Ontario Institute

of Technology (UOIT). Before the career fair,

determine which companies will be attending

and research the ones that interest you. Your

research will enable you to be more confident

and better prepared when speaking to a company

representative.

“At our school, the Hired Career Services portal

acts as a repository,” explains Paisley. “Students

can go there and find out which companies will

be at a career fair and get the link to a company’s

[Internet] site.” Researching a company sends a

strong message to a potential employer that you’re

not just looking for a job, but that you’re interested

in working for that particular organization.

Research will also enable you to match your skills

and experiences with the needs of a company.

“You need to know what the company does,” says

Paisley. “You don’t want to be the person who

says, ‘What do you do?’”

Chris Antzinas, founder and owner of Design Cycle

Resources, a technical search and placement

firm, recommends being unique and confident in

order to have a successful career fair experience.

“Everyone will be asking standard questions, and

getting standard company answers,” he explains.

“Prior to going to the career fair, visit the target

company’s corporate website and find recent

news about the organization to talk about. Print,

highlight and bring this along with you to the

career fair.”

dress for the job you want—don’t dress like a student You get only one chance to make a first impression,

so professionalism is paramount. Dress for a

career fair as you would for an interview. Be sure

to check your business attire a few days before

the fair. Make sure it is neat, clean, pressed and

well put together. Also make sure your shoes are

polished and that you are well groomed. Antzinas

career fairs a piece oF your job search puzzle

By Panagiota Panagakos

» career fairs are your chance to meet and network with employers. make a good first impression by being confident and prepared.

» research companies online so you know what to say to representatives.

» dress for success and have your “elevator pitch” always ready!

» make your own business cards, as résumés aren’t usually taken at career fairs.

career fair tips:


says that “what the potential employer is testing

the candidate on is not their fashion sense per

se, but their judgment.” In other words, how they

present themselves at the career fair reflects the

image they project to the company’s clients.

your conversation starter and self-marketing tool: the “elevator pitch”Your introduction, also known as your “elevator

pitch” to an employer is a 20–30 second synopsis

of your education, experience and interests, and

a very brief explanation of how you can make a

contribution to that company. Always end your

introduction with a question for the representative

to engage him or her in a conversation.

come equipped with the right toolsIt is recommended that you bring the following

items to a career fair:

business cards: Create your own business cards,

as company representatives don’t normally accept

résumés at career fairs. “If you have a business

card, give it to the company representatives you

meet,” advises Dubuc. “If they are impressed

by you, then they can write notes on it so when

they receive your online application you will be

recognized.” You should present your business

card as follows: the front of your card should face

the recipient as you hold the upper corner. If you

are the recipient, accept a business card from the

bottom corner, look at it, and thank the person

who offered it.

pad of paper and a pen: It’s a good idea to buy

a portfolio to carry your pen, paper and business

cards. By taking notes at the career fair, you’re

demonstrating to company representatives that

you’re interested in their company and that you

think what they’re saying is important.

a list of questions: Based on your research, make

a list of questions to ask representatives/potential

employers.

follow up with an e-mail It’s important to follow up after the career fair. Be

sure to send a personalized thank-you note via

e-mail within a week to every representative you

spoke to. This is an effective way to reintroduce

yourself to the employer and demonstrate your

interest in their company. Since career fairs are a

form of networking, Dubuc suggests that you “look

at other ways that you can meet the company

representatives again, such as information

sessions” to get constant exposure and to build

a good relationship with the employer. When

you make the employer remember you for your

enthusiasm and professional manner, you are

ensuring that your application makes it to the top

of the pile. co

“ you get only one chance to make a first impression so professionalism is paramount. dress for a career fair as you would for an interview. ”


as Graduate School Liaison in the

Office of the Registrar at Grant

MacEwan College (Edmonton,

Alberta), part of my role is to provide

information and support for students and alumni

applying for graduate study. Applicants include

students graduating from university or alumni

who have been in the work force for some time.

Following are tips and things to consider:

should i apply for graduate study now? reflect on:● Your skills, abilities and interests● Life space and significant relationships

(your age and health, partner, children, health

of family members) ● Career goals● Learning goals● Geography (where you choose to live)● Finances● Labour market trends

where do i start? the first step is research: ● Research can be done online using websites

that list numerous programs offered worldwide. ● Universities outline detailed information on

their websites. ● Read the information carefully.

● What is the design and structure of a program?

(For example: Is it thesis-based or course-based?)● Review the biographies and research interests

of faculty members in the department. ● Will this program match your learning, career

and personal goals?● What are the costs for tuition, books, supplies,

travel and living accommodations?● Review scholarship and assistantship opportunities.● What are the residency requirements?

give yourself time:Applying to a graduate program is not a quick

process. If you are also applying for scholarships,

extensive research may be required.

applications may or may not require these components:● Application form● Transcripts with grades (from each

post-secondary institution you attended)

● Statement of intent or statement of research● Reference letters● Résumé or curriculum vitae● Portfolio● Autobiography● Proof that you took the specific courses

the department has listed as admission

requirements ● Proof of proficiency in the language you will use

in your studies● Qualifying standardized examinations● Information on available financial resources for

your course of study● Interview(s)● Audition (often required for performing arts)

references: ● Decide who your referees will be.● Specific content requested for letters will vary.● Check websites to clarify to your referees the

type of content an appropriate reference

should include. ● Meet with individuals to request a reference

letter. Discuss the letter with the referee.

He or she may be knowledgeable about the

department you are applying to, as well as your

skills, interests and abilities in the context of this

course of study.● Do not delete or destroy undergraduate

applying For

graduate school

By dorothy ritz

✍

“ applying to a graduate program is not a quick process. if you are also applying for scholarships, extensive research may be required.”


assignments, projects or papers! They may be helpful in the future. For

example, a referee may request samples of course work (especially for

classes where she/he was your instructor), transcripts, a list of school-

related activities, and information on your volunteer and work experience.

finances:● Educational institutions offer funding allotted for prospective and current

graduate students. These awards are based on merit (GPA, research and

publishing background). ● Admissions departments may review your statement of intent to ensure that

your area of research matches designated funding resources.● There are opportunities for graduate students to apply for paid teaching

assistant positions.● Some departments offer co-op programs where a student can earn income

within the learning experience.● Some employers are interested in the career development of their

employees and provide support (in terms of money or time) for

ongoing learning. ● Student loans are usually available.

statement of intent: ● Applications for graduate school or professional education often require

a written statement of intent.● If you are applying for scholarships, teaching assistantships or bursaries,

you may be required to submit similar statements.● Think about your audience. The purpose of a statement is that it helps the

faculty admissions office determine whether you would be an appropriate

candidate for their program. They may consider the following: ● How the program addresses your learning interests: specifically, what

you want to study and why. ● An explanation of how you would function within the department’s

environment and culture and alongside faculty and other graduate students.

standardized examinations: ● Admission requirements may include standardized examinations.● Register to write the examination in the spring or summer before you

submit your application.● The format of the examinations is unique. It is essential that you practise

using sample questions before you write. ● You may request that results be sent to universities that require them for

admission. Note that fees are charged each time results are sent.

As you earn a masters or Ph.D. degree, new career doors may open. At the

same time, the investment of time and money can be significant. Solicit

advice from friends or co-workers who have taken the route of further

learning. Choose a program with interesting content. Study something that

you are passionate about. Enjoy the journey! co

dorothy ritz, Graduate School Liaison at

Grant MacEwan College, provides information

and support for alumni, current students, faculty

and staff with regards to researching and applying

for graduate study or professional education.



boning up on

money management

might make you richor not. but it will probably keep you From being poor!

By angela Fennelow


in this age of free-flowing data and

immediate access to massive amounts

of information, encountering a subject

that’s still taboo is a rare phenomenon.

Information sharing between parents and their

kids is more open and honest than ever before,

yet there’s one topic that’s avoided in many

households: money and personal finances.

Parents who have no problem talking about

sensitive topics with their children clam up when

it comes to the money they make and how it gets

spent. As a result, many people enter adulthood

knowing very little about the basics of household

financial management.

Learning how to manage your money is a necessary

life skill. Though it may not seem important when

you’re young, it will become more so later in life.

As your income and responsibilities increase, your

personal finances will likely get more complex.

Learning the basics of sound financial management

now is a ticket to dealing with money more

effectively when you have more of it.

Unfortunately, many people don’t learn about

money management until they’re deep in debt and

in full panic mode. This can, and does, happen to

anyone regardless of education or income level.

Credit is available to just about anybody, and for

those who aren’t disciplined in their approach,

the ease of credit can be devastating. Easy-to-

borrow money enables us to get the things we

want—right now!—and far too many people have

taken full advantage, buying houses that are too

big, cars that are too fancy and wardrobes that are

ridiculously large.

One fact escapes these people: they’ve bought

their stuff with money that isn’t theirs. It all has

to be returned to the lender—with interest. The

piper must be paid.

The past couple of decades have seen consumer

debt rise astronomically as saving rates drop.

People have forgotten lessons from past

recessions and assumed that the value of their

homes will always go up, and that increases will

offset the cost of the money borrowed to buy

them. This same psychology extends to consumer

goods with more dire results; long after the fancy

shoes are gone, the balance remains on the credit

card—at 18% interest or more.

Here are a few pieces of practical information that

are good for everyone to know. Learning them

when you’re young will give you the basic financial

knowledge to keep your financial future “in the

black,” ensuring your money works for you, rather

than against you.

1. remember that credit cards are not free money. If you carry any monthly

balance at all, they are the most expensive

money you can borrow, short of a payday

loan company. (By the way, don’t use payday

loan companies. Ever. Just don’t.)

4. learn to get help from experts when you need it. You can get good advice on money matters

in many different ways; part of educating yourself is to

figure out where to go for the help you need.

3. acquire basic knowledge about finances. Learning about saving, investing and budgeting, as

well as protecting what’s yours with

appropriate insurance, is one of

the most valuable gifts you can give

yourself. Read articles, take classes

or just Google it. The information is

out there.

2. use debt wisely by carefully considering the reason you’re taking it on. There is good debt and bad debt.

Good debt can allow you to buy a house or attend post-secondary

school. Just never forget the fact that it’s not your money. The more

you can save up for what you want, the better off you’ll be in the long

run. Bad debt, such as credit card debt, grows as you buy stuff that

depreciates in value—anything you can buy in a mall or online,

for example.

Since this is a career magazine, a few words about

career opportunities are in order. Remember

the first point in this article—that parents don’t

like to talk to their kids about money? Perhaps

it’s because they aren’t very knowledgeable

themselves and need advice as well. Many people

struggle through on their own, with inappropriate

investments, out-of-control debts, and very little

to protect their savings if an unanticipated event

happens, like premature death or illness.

There is a tremendous need for professionals

who can offer guidance on achieving financial

security. Providing advice in the financial field is a

potentially lucrative career choice for people with

strong interpersonal skills and the desire to run a

business that helps others. While you’re weighing

your career options, take some time to learn about

this one. co

You can contact Angela Fennelow at

[email protected].

www.sunlife.ca/careers/advisor

money tips »

angela fennelowis Director, Campus

Recruiting, Career Sales

Force, at Sun Life

Financial.



résumé writing:

from good to great

By Mary giamos Career Management

Consultant, Career Centre, University of Toronto✍


» what makes a great résumé—the kind that stirs employer interest and compels them to call the applicant right away?

A strong résumé is not a stroke of luck, but rather the result of matching

skills and experience to job qualifications. Many graduating students are

challenged by this idea because they often feel they don’t have either. The

truth is everyone has skills, whether specific/technical or soft/transferable.

The beauty of soft skills such as organizational, communication,

interpersonal and analytical skills is that they apply to so many work situations,

and are an excellent way to demonstrate your potential even if you lack

experience in the field.

If you want to convince an employer that you are a strong candidate, you’ll

need to put some time into your résumé. Great résumés are well researched

and well written. Begin by looking at what you’ve accomplished over the

last four or five years. Identify the skills, knowledge and experiences gained

through your course work, and review previous jobs, volunteer positions and

co-curricular activities. Involve your campus career centre in this process, as

they will have tools and/or counsellors available to guide your work.

Next, research the position and the organization to which you’re applying.

What skills, level of responsibility and previous experiences are required?

What are the company’s vision and goals for the coming year? What are the

major trends in the field? The answers to these questions will help you decide

which of your skills and experiences best match the position. Depending on

where these come from (for example, volunteering or the classroom), you will

know how to format and name the section headings. Let’s look at an example

of how this is done.

» danielle is a 4th-year student graduating in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in economics. She has a part-time job at

The Body Shop and is a member of the Economics Students’ Association.

She is interested in applying for a job with a consulting firm specializing in

public policy advising. After reviewing the qualifications for the position, she

compared them to her education and work experience:

employer qualifications: Post-secondary degree in Economics,

Urban Geography or related discipline

danielle’s experience: BA in Economics; courses included Urban

Economics, Financial Economics

employer qualifications: Outstanding spreadsheet abilities with

strong emphasis in Excel

danielle’s experience: Developed Excel spreadsheets for Financial

Economics course

employer qualifications: Excellent written and oral communication skills

danielle’s experience: Part-time job helping customers with product

selection; chair meetings and take minutes for Economics Students’

Association; write reports for courses

employer qualifications: Strong analytical abilities

danielle’s experience: Group project work analyzing city financial

planning process

Danielle meets their qualifications, but only when she takes into account

all her experiences: her course work, her part-time job and the Economics

Students’ Association. This is not uncommon, and it’s the reason you need to

broaden your experience outside the classroom while at college or university.



» the final step in preparing a résumé is to have it reviewed. Have someone from your career centre look it over for you. They can

offer feedback on how well you are presenting yourself through the use of

concrete examples, action verbs and accomplishments—they may even help

by spotting typos.

Your goal is not to have just one résumé, but rather to have several versions

tailored to specific positions. Remember: the effort you are willing to put into

your résumé shows your prospective employer the effort you are willing to put

into the job! co

qualification highlights:● Graduating in June 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics● Spreadsheet abilities; developed Excel spreadsheets for Financial

Economics course● Excellent written and oral communication skills: share product knowledge

with customers in retail store; chair meetings and take minutes for

Economics Students’ Association● Strong analytical abilities developed through group project analyzing city

financial planning process

education:2006–2010 bachelor of arts, economics, university of toronto Related courses: Urban Economics, Financial Economics, Quantitative

Methods in Economics

relevant course work:sept.–dec. 2009 critical analysis of the city of toronto’s financial planning process, urban economics, dept. of economics, u of t● Collaborated with three other students to critically evaluate the financial

planning process in relation to accountability and efficiency● Analyzed the plan and recommended a process intended to deliver the right

services in the most cost-effective manner● Earned the second highest mark in the class based on final report and

class presentation

work experience:2007–present sales assistant, the body shop● Assist customers with their needs by sharing product information in

a helpful manner● Increased sales by 15% from the same four-month period of the previous year

leadership experience:2008–present executive member, economics students’ association, u of t● Implemented a speaker series inviting prominent members of the financial

community to discuss Canada’s economic situation in the global economy● A record 85 students attended each session, a 35% increase over

previous events

interests and activities:Cycling, sudoku, amateur computer programming

» For an immediate impact and to showcase her diverse experience,

Danielle decides to begin her résumé with a “Qualification Highlights”

section presenting the employer with evidence.

» She then follows this with an “Education” section and highlights

courses relevant to the job, demonstrating her depth of knowledge. If

she has received academic awards or special recognition (e.g., Dean’s

list), they could be added here. Until Danielle has professional work

experience on her résumé, her post-secondary education is critical and

needs to be on page one.

» In the next section, Danielle lists a course assignment that

demonstrates her knowledge base and the skills she developed along

the way. Notice her choice of action verbs: collaborated, analyzed,

earned. There is a greater chance that an employer will conduct a

keyword search on these verbs than on the more commonly used

terms worked, responsible for and earned. This section could also

have been titled “Relevant Experience.”

» Working at The Body Shop, Danielle has strengthened her

interpersonal and communication skills. She also demonstrates

her work ethic by doing her best to increase sales for the company.

This achievement helps to make an otherwise ordinary job

noteworthy to employers, as it illustrates the contribution she is

capable of making.

» Danielle realized that she would not impress employers with her G.P.A.

alone, and decided to further improve her skills by joining the Economics

Students’ Association. Here she gradually built up her leadership skills

by chairing meetings, organizing events, and introducing and thanking

speakers. She also added another accomplishment to her list by

implementing a very successful speaker series.

» Danielle has trouble deciding whether to include an “Interests and

Activities” section; it may impress a potential employer to see that she

has diverse interests that have further sharpened her analytical skills, but

it may also be viewed as extraneous information. The only way to know

is through further research to determine company preferences—this

would be true of many decisions made when composing a résumé. Only

include details about yourself that are important to the company, but at

the same time also make sure not to leave unexplained gaps.

résumé tips »


algonquin college sept. 15campus connections – part-time work

brock university nov. 1career and post graduate expo

carleton university sept. 29 work and study abroad Fair

carleton university oct. 6 + 7 career Fair

confederation college oct. 22career Fair

durham college/university of ontario institute of technologyoct. 20 career and education Fair lakehead university oct. 23 career day

mcgill university sept. 24 desautels Faculty oF management career Fair

mcgill university sept. 29 + 30 engineering and technology career Fair

mcmaster university sept. 17 career Fair

mcmaster university sept. 29 government career expo

memorial university sept. 30 + oct. 1 career and graduate school Fair

queen’s university sept. 28 + 29 part-time job Fair

queen’s university oct. 1 international work/ study career Fair ryerson university sept. 16 part-time job Fair ryerson university sept. 23 science and hi-tech career Fair

ryerson university sept. 29business career Fair schulich school of business sept. 25 career Fair

schulich school of business nov. 6 internship and summer employment Fair

seneca college of applied arts and technology sept. 23 part-time job Fair

sheridan institute of technology & advanced learning nov. 18 applied computing and engineering sciences career Fair

simon fraser university – surrey campus sept. 22 career days 2009

simon fraser university – burnaby campus sept. 23 + 24 career days 2009

simon fraser university – burnaby campus sept. 24 graduate and proFessional school Fair

st. francis xavier university sept. 30 making the career connection event

trent university nov. 5 career Fair

université de monctonsept. 30 9th annual career Fair

université de sherbrookeoct. 1engineering and computer science Fair

university of alberta sept. 23 careers day

university of alberta sept. 26 health sciences career Fair

university of alberta nov. 4 arts career Fair

university of alberta nov. 20 pharmacy career Fair

university of british columbia sept. 25 ignite career Fair

university of calgary sept. 22 2009 science and engineering career Fair

university of guelph oct. 14 ontario agricultural job Fair

university of new brunswick oct. 1 Fall career Fair

university of northern british columbia oct. 6 Fall career Fair university of ottawa sept. 29 public sector career Fair

university of ottawa oct. 1 engineering and hi-tech career Fair

career fair dates


university of ottawa oct. 8 international work and study abroad Fair university of saskatchewan sept. 16 career expo 2009 university of toronto sept. 16, 17 + 18 inFormation technology and engineering

university of toronto sept. 21 liFe, physical science and business/commerce

university of toronto sept. 22 arts, social science, business/commerce

university of waterloo sept. 23 on-campus part-time job Fair

university of western ontario oct. 1 career Fair

wilfrid laurier university, university of waterloo, conestoga college, university of guelph sept. 30 partnership career Fair

list based on cacee member career Fairs appearing in the career Fair calendar as at july 31, 2009.

students: Whether in your first year or your final year, make

time to visit your institution’s career fair! The

career/job fair is an important component of the

on-campus recruitment process. Employers at

a career fair may also be recruiting for co-op or

internship positions.

get ready1. Speak with an advisor at your career centre (or

at least visit the centre’s website) to find out what

employers will be attending the career fair and

what types of positions they will be promoting.

If your career fair takes place over several days,

there may be different companies on each day.

2. Research the organizations attending the fair.

Select those that interest you, visit their websites

and learn what you can.

3. Develop a list of intelligent questions that

demonstrate your knowledge of each organization.

Corporate representatives will remember you if you

come prepared.

4. Plan your introduction speech to potential

employers. Make sure it covers the basics: who

are you, what are you looking for, and what are

your key qualifications?

5. Make sure your résumé is an accurate

reflection of you as a soon-to-be new graduate.

Your résumé should highlight your qualifications

for the types of positions you want.

on the day6. Dress to make the best impression. This

doesn’t mean you must wear a suit; it does mean

your clothes must be clean and pressed, your

shoes shined (no sandals), your appearance

neat—in short, look professional.

7. Be prepared to introduce yourself and have

your questions ready. You may or may not be

asked for a résumé; ensure you have copies on

hand. Some students prefer to distribute business

cards with their contact information and a few key

skills or qualifications.

8. Ask representatives for their business card,

which you may or may not receive. Business cards

are like gold in your search for a first professional

position.

after the career fair9. Make notes about what you have learned

from corporate representatives. You can use this

information in writing a résumé for an advertised

position, or in preparing for an interview.

10. Decide whether or not a company and

position meet your interests and requirements.

Just because a position is available, doesn’t mean

that it is the right one for you. co

career fair guide

By anne MarkeyEditor, Career Options



here are some oF the careers available in canada, along with educational requirements and other useFul inFormation. keep in mind that this is not a complete list. visit your campus career centre to Find out more about careers in the Field.

careersin healthso you want to work in healthcare…

➸

By anne MarkeyEditor, Career Options



chiropracticIn Canada, chiropractors are educated through

programs offered at the Canadian Memorial

Chiropractic College (CMCC) in Toronto, and the

Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR).

Both programs are accredited by the Canadian

Federation of Chiropractic Regulatory and

Educational Accrediting Boards (CFCREAB). ● Minimum of three years of university before

eligible for admission. ● CMCC program involves four years of full-time

study, including a one-year internship.● UQTR program involves five years of study

following graduation from a Cégep health

science program.● www.ccachiro.org

dieticianThe first step is a bachelor’s degree (with major

credits in Foods and Nutrition) from a university

offering an accredited dietetic education program.

Next is successful completion of an accredited

practical experience program. The final step is

registration with the regulatory body (college or

association) in the province in which you intend

to practise. ● Most provinces require successful completion

of the Canadian Dietetic Registration

Examination (CDRE). ● To enter the profession via the graduate degree

route, you must complete the master’s degree;

you will also likely need to obtain volunteer

experience in a practice setting, under the

direction of a dietitian. ● www.dietitians.ca/public/content/career_in_

nutrition/how_to_become.asp

health records management/ health managementMany positions are available in this diverse field.

Search under “Certified Professional in Healthcare

Information and Management Systems” on the

Healthcare Information and Management Systems

Society website (www.himss.org). A variety of MBA

programs are available, providing leadership in

healthcare management.

medical doctorMost students entering medicine have a degree

or previous post-secondary education with at least

a B+ GPA. Subjects such as physics, chemistry

and biology may be helpful, and a range of studies

in non-medical areas is also recommended.

Volunteer experience related to your medical

field of interest is also essential. In 2006–2007

there was a 25% success rate for medical school

applicants. McMaster University, which does not

require applicants to write the MCAT, had a 4.9%

success rate for all applicants in 2007–2008. ● Three to four years in basic medical school,

followed by a residency of two to seven years

(depending on specialty or focus). ● Mandatory written exam to practise medicine

in Canada.● www.cma.ca

medical laboratory technologist, pathologists’ assistantThese positions may require a Bachelor of Science

degree, a Medical Laboratory Science degree or a

two- to three-year college diploma and a period of

supervised training. Certification by the Canadian

Society of Medical Laboratory Science and

registration with a provincial regulatory body (in

New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan

and Alberta) may also be required. ● Most provinces have separate, specialized

programs in cytotechnology; British Columbia

and Ontario have programs in clinical genetics. ● www.csmls.org/english/english.htm

naturopathic medicineNaturopathic medicine is a distinct primary

healthcare system that blends modern scientific

knowledge with traditional and natural forms

of medicine. The naturopathic philosophy is

to stimulate the healing power of the body

and treat the underlying cause of disease.

Universities and colleges may choose to call the

naturopathic degree they confer either the “Doctor

of Naturopathy” or the “Doctor of Naturopathic

Medicine” degree; these are two different names

for the same degree. ● In Canada, usually a four-year degree from an

accredited institution is required.● www.cand.ca/index.php?id=home&L=0 –

Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors● www.ccnm.edu/ – Canadian College of

Naturopathic Medicine

nursingAlthough some provinces still accept a nursing

diploma, most require a baccalaureate in nursing

(BN or BScN). A degree program takes four years. ● Entrance requirements differ from one school to

another. Generally, admission requirements are

high school with senior-level English or French,

mathematics, chemistry, physics and biology. ● Completion of either an approved diploma

program or a baccalaureate in nursing are

required to write the Canadian Registered

Nurse Examination (CRNE).● www.cna-nurses.ca/CNA/nursing/becoming/

default_e.aspx

occupational therapistOccupational therapists are university trained and

complete a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised

fieldwork (on-the-job training). By 2010 all

Canadian graduates wishing to enter practice as an

occupational therapist must hold a master’s degree. ● The Canadian Association of Occupational

Therapists (CAOT) recommends that you

contact the individual university for admission

requirements, course descriptions and curriculum. ● Graduation from a professionally accredited

program is typically required to write the CAOT

they’re not all doctors and nurses: careers in healthcare are varied enough to suit just about anyone.



Certification Examination, which you must pass

to work in some provinces. ● www.caot.ca

occupational therapist/physiotherapist assistantThese professionals help rehabilitate patients

with physical and psychological ailments under

the supervision of an occupational therapist

or physiotherapist.● Sciences, volunteer experience and a

community college diploma are required.

paramedic/emergency medical technicianRequirements vary by province. Most provinces

require secondary school completion, first aid

and CPR, a valid driver’s licence and physical

conditioning. ● To become a paramedic in Ontario, candidates

must also pass the Ministry of Health’s

Advanced Emergency Medical Care Attendant

certification examination following completion of

their program.● Community colleges and private vocational

schools may offer training; programs recognized

by the Canadian Medical Association allow for

national mobility.

pharmacistCurrently there are nine universities in Canada

with pharmacy schools. To practise pharmacy in

Canada you need: ● A bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from a

Canadian university. ● To complete a national board examination

through the Pharmacy Examining Board

of Canada. ● Practical experience through an apprenticeship/

internship program.

Requirements vary by province. Additional

information is available by searching provincial

regulatory authorities.

pharmacy technicianPharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists

provide medication and other healthcare products

to patients. They perform tasks such as counting

tablets and labeling bottles. Technicians refer

any questions regarding prescriptions, drug

information or health matters to a pharmacist. ● Candidates must graduate from a Canadian

pharmacy technician program accredited

by the Canadian Council for Accreditation

of Pharmacy Programs, and pass the PEBC

Pharmacy Technician Evaluating Examination. ● www.capt.ca

physiotherapyCanada has 14 physiotherapy programs across

the country. Starting in 2010, universities will

no longer offer bachelor’s degrees in this field;

anyone who wants to be a physiotherapist will

have to complete a master’s degree.● An undergraduate degree, usually with

specific prerequisites, is required to qualify for

admission to master’s entry-level programs. ● Graduates of physiotherapy programs must

complete the Physiotherapy Competency

Examination.● www.physiotherapy.ca

radiography, radiation therapy and nuclear medicine technologies A college diploma or university degree may

be required for this cluster of professions,

which includes: ● Magnetic resonance technologist – uses

magnetic resonance imaging scanners to

capture specific images ordered by a physician

to aid in patient diagnosis.● Radiation therapist – performs prescribed

radiation therapy to destroy the abnormal cells

causing the patient’s illness.● Nuclear medicine technologist – carries

out diagnostic imaging and some treatment

procedures; acquires images that help pinpoint

the nature of a disease and how it is affecting

the body. ● www.radiopharmacycollege.com● www.camrt.ca/english/home.htm

speech pathology/audiology Professional training in speech-language

pathology or audiology is available at the master’s

level at nine Canadian universities. Given the

limited number of spaces in graduate schools,

it is not unusual for Canadians to complete their

degree in the U.S. Requirements include: ● Master’s degree in audiology and/or speech-

language pathology, or equivalent. ● Completed practicum. ● Clinical certification exam and other

requirements set out by the Canadian

Association of Speech-Language Pathologists

and Audiologists.● www.caslpa.ca co



It’s no secret that in a struggling economy, getting

the job you want can be very challenging. Add to

that rapidly changing technology and a constantly

growing competition pool, and it’s easy to become

overwhelmed by the whole process. As you

navigate through the recruiting cycle, you will

no doubt encounter many situations where your

actions and reputation will be deciding factors

in getting the job you want. What can you do to

make sure that you are always portraying yourself

in a positive, professional way? The following

article will give you some insight into how to put

your best foot forward when attempting to secure

your dream job.

the public domainAs our society relies increasingly on innovative,

Internet-based modes of communication, a

potential employer can now learn about you in

many more ways than just through your résumé

and cover letter. Social networking sites like

Facebook, MySpace and Twitter are great ways to

connect with your family and friends, but can also

be used by potential employers to determine your

suitability for their organization. With the growing

number of recruiting avenues currently being

explored, especially online, students need to be

conscious of the information about them available

in the public domain. Taking precautions such

as limiting questionable content on your various

profiles, strategically choosing the type of social

networks you use, or making your profiles private

are highly recommended.

honestly speakingHiring managers and human resource

professionals have an obligation to abide by the

ethical standards put forth by the labour board,

their organization, and the schools in which

they are recruiting. When speaking about their

organization, recruiters should not overstate the

benefits the organization offers, or embellish the

tasks of an entry-level position in an effort to sway

candidates to join the organization. Conversely,

candidates should have their own code of ethics

when it comes to applying for positions. From

the first handshake to the first day of work,

candidates should be honest with themselves, the

organizations to which they apply, and the career

contacts they make.

Your résumé is an organization’s first look at your

skills and abilities. While there are many different

formats you can choose from for your résumé

layout, the one consistent requirement is that you

be honest. Do not embellish any of your past job

responsibilities or exaggerate your abilities (e.g.,

getting the job you want – putting your best foot forward

By gina JohnRotman Commerce Career

Centre, University of Toronto, and carol evenson,

Ag-Quest Inc.



saying you can speak Japanese if you only know

how to say “hello” and “goodbye”). There are

many high-profile cases of individuals who did not

portray themselves honestly on their résumé, and

suffered significant consequences. Radio Shack

CEO David Edmonson was forced to resign when

it was discovered that he lied about his academic

credentials. Similarly, Notre Dame football

coach George O’Leary was removed when it was

discovered that he grossly overstated his past

accomplishments.

As cliché as it sounds, honesty is the best policy

when it comes to writing your résumé. If you

have never written a résumé, or would like yours

critiqued by a professional, visit your university

or college career services office. They partner

with employers to learn the specific skills and

abilities candidates need to have, and prepare

programming such as résumé workshops and

one-on-one coaching sessions to help students

understand how to acquire these skills and

abilities, and market them in an effective way.

network like a professionalTaking advantage of networking opportunities,

attending employer information sessions, taking

office tours and meeting contacts through career

services or professors are equally as important as

your résumé. How you portray yourself at these

events will either assist or hinder you in your job

search. Awkward conversations, inappropriate

alcohol consumption and poor food etiquette are

just a few of the gaffes that can prevent you from

networking successfully. How can you make sure

that the impression you leave is a good one?

The best advice that we have heard about

preparing for networking events is to create your

personal “elevator speech.” If you were in an

elevator and the CEO of the organization you

wanted to work for stepped in, what would you

say? You only have about 30 seconds to hold that

person’s attention before he or she either leaves or

loses interest. Your elevator speech should include

your name, your major/year of study and the type

of opportunity you are looking for. From there, you

should have multiple topics to discuss.

interviewsThe interview stage, for some of you, will be the

first time you meet a representative from the

organization; for others, it could be the third or

fourth time. Whether it’s the first or fourth time,

your approach should be consistent with the

steps you have taken to get here. If you have any

gaps in your résumé, address them with your

interviewer right away so they don’t leave the

interview with more questions than answers about

you. Be honest with your interviewer about why

you left a previous job, even if you were fired,

because you can use it as an opportunity to talk

about what the experience taught you. Under no

circumstances should you ever speak negatively

about a former employer. The working world is

surprisingly small—and you never know how the

person interviewing you may be connected to others.

sealing the deal with an offerOrganizations select candidates whom they

believe are a good fit for the role, the team and the

organization; when you get a job offer, it’s up to you

to decide if the role, the team and the organization

are a good fit for you. Most organizations will give

you at least a week to indicate your response to the

offer. If this is your first offer and your first choice,

accepting right away may be a good option for you.

If this offer is your second or third choice (and you

haven’t yet heard back from the organizations that

you are truly interested in), it is acceptable to ask

to take some time to review the offer before making

your decision.

If you receive an offer from an organization and

it is not your first choice, it is not in your best

interest to accept immediately, because you may

be tempted to back out of your offer if a more

desirable one comes along. Backing out of an

offer can negatively affect your reputation as well

as the reputation of the school from which you

were recruited. Be honest with the hiring manager

or recruiter by letting him or her know that you

are waiting to receive another offer, or that you

need some time to evaluate the offer they have

presented. It is much better to be remembered as

the candidate who made a conscientious decision,

rather than the student who accepted and then

backed out of an offer.

Although this article covers many typical scenarios

within the recruitment cycle, you will no doubt

encounter new and unexpected circumstances

in your job search. Maintaining your integrity

and professionalism along the way will help to

make your recruitment experience a successful

beginning to your career journey. co

“ as cliché as it sounds, honesty is the best policy when it comes to writing your résumé. if you have never written a résumé, or would like your résumé critiqued by a professional, visit your university or college career services office. ”

if you found yourself in an elevator with the ceo of a company you want to work for, what would you say? have your elevator speech ready for those chance encounters!


student workabroad program


the

“wh

ere”

fact

or

this might be the most important decision oF your life.

By Karen gallantDirector, Talent Networks,

Communitech


for a new graduate, deciding where to

live requires a great deal of thought and

consideration. Although job opportunities

may seem to be the most important

factor to consider, in reality there is so much more.

As you choose the community you want to live in,

you need to be thinking about the lifestyle you want,

proximity to family and friends, access to arts and

entertainment, a feeling of belonging and a sense

of place. You need to think beyond the immediate

job opportunity and determine whether the location

really appeals to you. Does this move to a different

city hold out the promise for personal growth,

development and enjoyment?

what makes a great communityA city that is truly great is known for the quality of life

that it offers its citizens. It is creative, safe, diverse,

builds on its strengths and offers opportunity for all.

This kind of community fosters a sense of pride and

desire to give back. Great communities support their

citizens no matter what stage of life they are in—

furthering their education, beginning their first job,

starting a family or choosing a new career direction.

Jane Jacobs, renowned for her views on what

makes a city work, has almost single-handedly

» what’s the most important to you right now: your work? your family? finding a mate? your physical environment?

» do you prefer to be in a young, urban hipster environment or a rural community?

» to what degree do you value the arts, entertainment and culturalscene in a community?

» is it important to be in an aesthetically pleasing city?

more key questions »


revolutionized urban planning. She has published books on how the different

elements of a city, such as sidewalks, neighbourhoods, parks, government

and the economy, function together to create synergy. In her well-known book

The Death and Life of Great American Cities (1961), she wrote: “Lively, diverse,

intense cities contain the seeds of their own regeneration, with energy enough to

carry over for problems and needs outside themselves.”

advice to considerAccording to Richard Florida, economist and author of Who’s Your City?,

choosing where you live is one of the most important decisions you will make in

your life. Young graduates are the most likely demographic group to move, and

this mobility peaks at the age of 25.

For recent graduates today the possibilities can seem endless. Many decide to

move across the country, or even the world, in search of life experiences. The

freedom to live wherever you choose presents great opportunities, but also the

challenge of choosing wisely.

There are some key questions Florida suggests that you consider:● What are your expectations based on the stage of life you are in?● Where are the places you’d most like to live? ● Where are your current networks? ● How much does the weather and climate matter to you?

Florida suggests that after generating a list of priorities consisting of deal-makers

and deal-breakers, the next step is to generate a shortlist of places that fit your

criteria. From there, you’ll need to do some research to determine what qualities

each place has to offer in terms of job opportunities, basic services, your values,

and so on.

a great example Ontario’s Waterloo Region is a model example of a thriving community that offers

a desirable quality of life and many work opportunities. A unique blend of urban

and rural areas, Waterloo Region has always exhibited a strong entrepreneurial

spirit. It has rapidly re-configured itself into a megacentre of technology and

innovation, and is home to some of the most dynamic companies in Canada,

including some of the hottest technology companies in the world.

The area is maturing in many of the ways described by both Florida and Jacobs.

For example, an initiative is underway to continue strengthening the Region’s

already vibrant arts and culture scene.

choosing wiselyDeciding where you will live is an investment in your future. If a particular city

doesn’t seem like a match for you, don’t be afraid to reject it. It’s important to

listen to your gut when making such an important life decision. If you consider

all the factors from the start and choose wisely, just think about all the moving

expenses you can save on! co



now, looking back at my first year at

my first full-time position, I see it as

an incredible journey. It took some

effort to adjust to the new phase

of my life—new routine, new environment, new

expectations. Having worked as an intern during

my undergrad, I had an idea of what to expect;

my internship experience helped in easing the

transition. However, certain things were difficult,

including changes in time management, social

skills, professional skills, and expectations from

both the employer and myself.

One of the hardest changes has been to realize

that I’m no longer a student or an intern, but a

professional. What I do, how others perceive me

and how I present myself is much different and

more mature now. As a professional, I have certain

rights, obligations and expectations to meet. I

believe that recognizing this is the first step toward

adjusting to work life.

The work environment can be very challenging and

different from school life. Time management is very

important; meeting and working around deadlines

can be tricky. As well, depending on the type of job,

you could be working within a team or individually.

This can be hard to adjust to, so discussing the

matter with your supervisor is a good idea.

Also, a lot of employers and supervisors have

high expectations for their new hires. However,

realizing that the grad is fresh out of school and

has limited practical, real-life experience may help

in establishing realistic goals and expectations for

both parties. Depending on the position and the

employer, some technical or professional training

may be provided. In most cases, however, training

is on-the-go. This may put a lot of pressure on

you to learn as much as possible as quickly

as possible. If your supervisor offers training

references, manuals or courses, you should take

advantage of them.

Communication skills are very important as

well. Writing professional correspondence and

reports, and giving presentations are common

requirements in the workplace. It may be hard at

the beginning to adjust to the appropriate level of

language and terminology used in the workplace,

but practice definitely helps. You might consider

having a trusted coworker or even your manager

or supervisor look over your writing and provide

feedback at first.

What helped me during my first year was having

a work buddy, someone in a similar job who

had been with the organization for a while. At

my first job, my work buddy was assigned to me

immediately. My buddy helped me greatly in

answering all my questions, concerns and anything

that I was not able to direct to my supervisor.

However, not all employers offer this system. An

alternative is to ask your manager or supervisor to

assign a go-to coworker, someone who can guide

you and generally help make your adjustment

easier and faster.

Also, being hired with a group helped a lot.

Because we all attended a similar orientation

program, there were others going through the same

experiences as I was. It made things seem not so

foreign and gave me someone to share with and be

friends with. This definitely helped at the beginning

when everything and everyone was new and there

was so much to learn and do.

Finally, it’s good to start the year by having a

defined set of goals and expectations. This will

help you map out a path and establish a career

plan to work towards. It will also enable you to

identify the skills required to meet your targets at

the end of the year. co

first year of full-time:adjusting tips & more

“ one of the hardest changes has been to realize that i’m no longer a student or an intern, but a professional. what i do, how others perceive me and how i present myself is much different and more mature now. ”

zahraa al-ali graduated from McMaster

University in Electrical Engineering in 2007.

Her first year of full-time employment was with

Accenture Canada as a consulting analyst. She

has been with Ontario Power Generation since

July 2008.

By Zahraa Al-Ali



my first job gave me the opportunity to travel, learn about

another culture and meet incredible people. It wasn’t related

to my degree, but it was the best life experience I’ve had

since graduation.

I was in my last semester studying journalism at the University of King’s

College (in Halifax, Nova Scotia), but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after

graduation. I didn’t know how I wanted to use the skills I had developed, but

I did know I wanted to travel. I found my first job teaching English in Japan

very easily. Almost too easily: I applied to two companies over the Internet.

One never got back to me; the other hired me.

I thought teaching English in Japan sounded like a great working holiday. I

could learn about another culture and earn money to support my travels in

Asia. I didn’t have any teaching experience, and the thought of standing in

front of a classroom full of students made me nervous. To gain experience,

I took a TESOL class and volunteered as a teaching assistant, helping

teenagers new to Canada improve their English.

My first week in Japan was a mix of culture shock, excitement and jet lag.

I was responsible for teaching about 50 students, counselling them on their

progress and managing their paperwork. My students ranged in age from

two to 65.

I scrambled to come up with ideas for lessons and to remember warm-up

exercises, games and activities from my training. At first my adult students

asked me lots of questions about where I was from, my family and my

hobbies. Some of the children sat at their desks in silence; others cried, hid

under the desks or ran out of the classroom back to their mothers. I never

thought one of my first challenges in the workforce would be learning how to

discipline and engage children.

I gradually became a better, more confident teacher. As I got to know my

students, they started inviting me to their homes for dinner and taking me to

castles and other local attractions. During my spare time I started taking painting

and tea ceremony classes. I also visited other Japanese cities such as Kyoto and

Hiroshima, and other countries including Thailand, China and Vietnam.

But while I enjoyed teaching, I didn’t want to make it my career. When my

contract ended, I decided not to renew it and to go home.

After returning to Canada my first task was to find a job. I decided to find work

that drew on my journalistic training and involved writing. I thought getting

a job would be a simple, straightforward process, just like getting my job in

Japan. I spent hours searching for job postings, drafting cover letters and

sending applications, but offers for interviews and jobs didn’t come so easily.

I received a few responses, but not nearly as many as I had anticipated.

4network and ask people for advice. Sometimes the best advice can

come from someone in a different field.

2follow your passion. Ask yourself what you want to

do, not what you think you should do.

what i’ve learned »

how i am making the transition from student to

professional

1 travel, work or volunteer

overseas if you’re not sure what you want to do after graduation.

You’ll gain some

amazing life experiences

that may help put

your career goals into

perspective.

3be open-minded and

flexible. Are you

willing to relocate or to

try looking for work in

a different industry?

By erica Simmonds



Some of my friends had started entry-level professional jobs right after

graduation and had already been promoted. Whenever I felt a little jealous

of their success, I looked at my photos from Japan: me with my students,

me visiting temples, wearing a kimono, riding an elephant and climbing

the Great Wall of China. If I had stayed home and gotten a different job, I

wouldn’t have had all of those experiences.

Maybe I wasn’t at the same place in my career as some of my friends,

but it didn’t matter. Life isn’t a race. I had so much fun travelling, learning

about Japanese culture and getting to know my students. I wouldn’t have

traded these experiences for the chance to be settled into a career in my

early twenties.

Teaching English in Japan taught me a lot about organization, presentation

skills, customer service and professionalism. Some potential employers told

me the experience was irrelevant, while others said it demonstrated that I

could do almost anything.

I didn’t receive any job offers during my first couple of months back in

Canada, so I decided to change my job search approach. I got a job at

a boutique to earn some money, and I started taking job search strategy

courses. The instructors said about 80% of jobs are found through people

you know, so I talked to my relatives, my friends, my parents’ friends and my

alumni association. I learned something valuable from each of them.

To expand my network and gain some experience, I started volunteering with

two non-profit organizations. One organization offered me a communications

internship a couple of weeks later. When I was a student I had never

thought about working for a non-profit, but I loved my internship. I enjoyed

contributing to a good cause. I also liked working in a small team and having

more responsibility than I would have had in a larger organization.

Since the recession hit, it’s been harder to get interviews and job offers,

but I keep persevering. After my first internship ended, I received several

more internships and contracts. Most of these resulted from networking

with my friends’ business contacts, with people I met through a professional

association and, most unexpectedly, with a friend of a friend of a friend of

someone to whom I once sold a sweater.

I graduated four years ago and I am still making the transition from student

to experienced professional. I am building my resume and my portfolio. In

addition to my school projects, I now have published articles and newsletters

I’ve helped put together to show potential employers.

My year in Japan, combined with the recession, has meant that it may take

me a little longer to settle into a career path than I had originally thought.

But all of the amazing life experiences I’ve had along the way have been

worth it. co

erica simmonds graduated from the

journalism program at the University of King’s

College four years ago. She continues to

build her résumé and portfolio with published

newsletters and articles.


this document sets out guidelines for

ethical recruitment at post-secondary

educational institutions. These guidelines

are intended to provide a framework for

the professional relationships between employers,

students, third-party recruiters and career educators.

The guidelines are based on industry research,

have been generally agreed upon by employers and

educators, and are advocated by CACEE for national

implementation.

employers it is the employer’s responsibility to: ● Comply with all relevant federal and provincial

legislation.

information sessions:● When arranging information sessions, most post-

secondary institutions book space on a first-come,

first-served basis and it is strongly recommended

that employers book early to avoid conflicts.

guideline:● Information sessions should begin no earlier than

the first Monday after Labour Day.

interviews:● Contact the career centre well in advance to

reserve interview space and provide company

literature. Most post-secondary institutions book

space on a first-come, first-served basis and it is

strongly recommended that employers reserve

space early. ● Provide accurate information on job

responsibilities, compensation, benefits and

contact information. ● Notify all applicants individually of their status. ● Interview for positions whose starting dates are

within 12 months of the initial interview. ● Respond to all applicants within agreed-upon

time frames and give reasonable notice (a

minimum of three days is recommended) of any

interview cancellations. ● Advise applicants of compensation for site or

interview visits.

guideline:● On-campus interviews should begin no earlier

than the first business day in October.

job offers:● Provide a reasonable amount of time for

candidates to respond to job offers. ● Confirm job offers and terms of employment in

writing to candidates. ● Inform the career centre regularly of the status of

your campaign. ● Honour all offers of employment.

guideline:● Full-time job offers to students attracted via

on-campus recruitment should have a minimum

of two weeks for an acceptance deadline or until

the first business day in November, whichever

is the later. ● Job offers to summer students are not subject to

any minimum acceptance date rules; however, it

is recommended that a minimum of one week be

provided for job offer acceptance.

studentsit is the student’s responsibility to:● Comply with all relevant federal and provincial

legislation. ● Provide accurate and appropriate information on

résumés, application forms and in interviews.

interviews:● Prepare for the interview. ● Notify the career centre well in advance if

interviews must be rescheduled or cancelled. ● Acknowledge invitations for site visits or second

interviews promptly whether accepted or rejected. ● Notify employers well in advance if site visits or

second interviews must be postponed or cancelled. ● Accept interview invitations (second and

subsequent) only when seriously considering a

position with the employer.

job offers:● Discuss offers with employers to verify terms and

reach mutually acceptable responses.

● Respond to every offer whether it is to be accepted

or rejected. ● Notify employers of acceptance or rejection of an

offer as soon as a decision is made. ● Notify the career centre immediately upon

confirmation of a job acceptance to withdraw from

the recruitment process. ● Honour the acceptance of the offer as it is a

contractual agreement with the employer.

career educatorsit is the career educator’s responsibility to: ● Comply with all relevant federal and provincial

legislation. ● Provide equitable services to all students and

employers.

interviews:● Accommodate employers’ reasonable requests

for job posting, information session and interview

space. ● Ensure that students have reasonable time

(a minimum of five weeks is recommended)

from the start of the school year to prepare for

the on-campus recruitment process prior to the

commencement of interviews.

employment preparation:● Provide information, resources and advice to

students on career planning and job search. ● Inform students of ethical recruitment practices,

procedures and responsibilities.

other:● Follow legal and ethical guidelines in providing

student information to employers. ● Bring to the attention of the parties involved any

questionable recruitment practices.

third-party recruitersThird-party recruiters are agencies, organizations

or individuals recruiting students for employment

opportunities with other organizations.

The following guidelines for third-party recruiters

have been established to best meet the needs of

students, employers and career educators. ● No direct referrals will be made for vacancies

listed by third-party recruiters without posting and/

or contacting candidates with the information

relating to the position. ● Third-party recruiters will be asked to identify their

employer clients; career educators will treat this

information as confidential. ● Candidates’ résumés must not be held in the files

cacee ethical recruitment guidelines

By the Canadian Association of Career

Educators and Employers


of the third-party recruiter for later referral to other positions unless authorized

by the candidate.

guidelines management:● When scheduling on-campus recruitment activities, both employers and

career educators should respect dates of religious and cultural significance. ● Guidelines should be determined and managed locally. ● Penalties for non-compliance should be: ● determined locally; ● have local jurisdiction, be relative in severity to the associated infraction; and ● clearly indicated to employers well in advance of the recruitment season.

In the event of an unresolved dispute between parties engaged in on-campus

recruitment, CACEE members are invited to refer the matter, and any identified

penalties, to the CACEE Ethics Committee for review and recommendation via

the CACEE website at www.cacee.com. co


Documents

Career Options Magazine Fall 2009