Featured Student: Sharisse Chan

What is your field of study?

 I am a Microbiology/Immunology student.

Why did you choose to enroll in co-op? 

Although I’m doing my undergraduate degree in a biological science field, I never really saw myself going into academia or medicine.

Co-op sounded like a really great way to try my hand at new things and meet great mentors along the way – this ultimately led me to apply to the program.

Which positions did you work during co-op?

I worked as a Business Operations Intern at STEMCELL Technologies during my first two co-op terms. In those eight months, I had been given the opportunity to support diverse product launches and work on various optimization projects, which really allowed me to hone my project management and communication skills.

This position also piqued my interest in product management and product marketing, which led me to my current position as a Business Intern at Boeing. Throughout these next two terms with Boeing, I will be working closely with product managers to drive and execute various marketing plans.

Can you share your favourite experience while in co-op?

It’s hard to pick a specific moment, but I really enjoyed meeting different people and hearing their journey towards their current roles.

At STEMCELL, I witnessed how a scientific background, coupled with skills and experience, could lead to diverse career paths.

At Boeing, I met coworkers who transitioned from a different field into the digital aviation industry. All these interactions and stories really broadened my perspective, allowing me to grow as a person.

What was your best achievement in co-op?

One of my responsibilities at STEMCELL included supporting product launches by drafting customer facing documents, like website details and product information sheets. Seeing one of the products that I helped launch live on the website was a full-circle moment for me. It was amazing to see how the project team’s hard work transformed a business idea to a product!

What did you feel most challenged by and how did you overcome it?

Switching industries and getting up-to-speed with some of the more technical details was definitely a challenge to me when I began my work with Boeing. I’m still learning, but one thing that helped me would be approaching new tasks with curiosity and open mindedness instead of fear.

How do you feel co-op helped your personal growth?

Co-op really allowed me to hone my soft skills, like communication, critical thinking and adaptability.

Also, I learned how to advocate for myself and my growth throughout the co-op program. I was able to communicate what I wanted to get out of my co-op terms with my team, and I’m extremely grateful to have been under the guidance of two great managers that provided me with a space to learn and grow, not just work.

How do you feel co-op has helped your career?

The co-op program has really allowed me to learn more about myself and the type of career I hope to pursue.

My interactions with my mentors and coworkers really broadened my horizons and opened me to the world of project management, product management and product marketing.

What advice would you offer future co-op students?

Don’t be afraid to pivot!

All co-op positions are opportunities for you to learn – technical skills, soft skills or simply things about yourself.

Also, don’t limit yourself and your capabilities. Apply to jobs that sound challenging and that intrigue you, growth is just outside your comfort zone.

What are you looking forward to after graduation?

More opportunities to learn and meet new people – be it in the workforce or outside!