Farewell Message from Graduating Career Assistants and Introduction to our Summer Career Assistants

The past 2019/2020 school year has been rewarding and a learning experience for many. As the fall and winter term comes to an end, this blog post is to just express our sincere thanks and appreciation to our fellow co-workers that made CareerZone so great. Below are self-reflections and closing remarks from some of our graduating career assistants.

Niraj

“Working with the Coop Career & Experiential Education department was a highlight of my time at Brock University. I joined the team as a Goodman Career Assistant in my second year of study in September 2017. I was able to learn and develop my skills under the guidance of the Goodman team lead by Ashley Chimenti. In my first year I learned a great deal about the job application process and how crucial it is to build your network. I would advise students attend the networking and Exploring Careers in series of events organized by the Career Education department. The events are a starting point to building a network and meeting helpful alumni if you make it happen.

Later, I was given the opportunity to work with the department as a Summer Career Assistant in 2019, and the summer was also when I transitioned to assist the department as a Plus Programs Assistant. I was able to help students from a whole new dynamic as I provided them with guidance on building their Experience Plus Transcripts which can be used to strengthen a portfolio or job application and kept as a record of a student’s involvement during their university career.

I returned to the department in my final year of study as a Senior Goodman Career Assistant in September 2019. I spent many hours talking to students and encouraging them to get involved and attend Goodman Career Events. Although, the year was cut short due to the Covid-19 virus, the Career team was still highly functional working from home for the remainder of the year.

Throughout my time with the department, the staff were always welcoming and very helpful. My advice to all incoming students would be to book an appointment with a Talent Development Specialist. The staff are very knowledgeable and can offer great advice on building your dream career. As I finish my Bachelor of Business Administration degree, I look forward to furthering my education as I prepare to write my Certified Financial Analyst exam. If you are already a student at Brock University or are thinking of attending the school, my most important takeaway would be to get involved with the Coop Career and Experiential Education Department.”

Niraj Dave, BBA

 Autumn

“As my time as a career assistant, I enjoyed getting to learn about the different job opportunities, passions, and career goals of students. It really opened my eyes to the wide variety of career paths that were available after graduation and the significance of conducting research related to career planning. One advice I would give to students is participate in informational interviews, volunteering, completing a co-op placement or even job shadowing as part of your next steps, to get exposed to areas you may be interested in. As part of my next steps as a nursing student, I plan on finishing my last year of nursing school and begin working as a nurse.”

Autumn Wild, BSc. Nursing

MOCK INTERVIEW MADNESS: Interview Tips!

The job interview. The most nerve-racking, anxiety-raising, sweat-through-my-shirt terrifying experience in the world… or is it? For most, the answer is yes, BUT we’re here to change that. With the right preparation, you can strut out of your next interview knowing that you NAILED it. Read till the end to find out how to practice your skills AND enter a contest for a MOVIE NIGHT PACKAGE!

We’ll walk you through the 4 P’s of successful interviewing with more tips on how to feel calm & collected walking into your next interview.

1. Prepare

• Know yourself. What are your skills, interests and values that relate to the position? We know, it’s a tough concept to grab, so check out the self-assessment tools found in the Student Resources section of the CareerZone Website to learn about yourself.
• Know your accomplishments. How do the skills listed in the job posting relate to your own skills & experiences? Practice explaining them through the SOAR technique here
• Know the organization. Do some research on the company’s website to find out about their mission statement, strategic plans, company culture etc, as well as the job posting to understand your requirements!

2. Practice

• Write out your answers, and read them out loud. Trust us, it works
• Keep it natural. Don’t memorize them, just the key points that you want to resonate with the employer!
• Prep some questions. When the employer asks you “do you have any questions for me?” have some prepared!

3. Engage & Be Positive!

• Leave that lasting impression by showcasing a positive attitude and eagerness for the job. 

• Sit straight, with your shoulders facing the interviewer. Be engaged, and try to avoid the nervous fidgeting!
• Actively listen to questions, maintain eye contact with confidence
• Be direct. Try to avoid rambling or going off-topic

4. Own it, sister!

• If you’ve read this far, you’re already more prepared than most interviewees. Feel reassured that you’ve prepared for your interview, and walk in with confidence!

MOCK INTERVIEW MADNESS!

All this month CareerZone is running a CONTEST where you can practice your interview skills using "Interview Stream"

- How do you participate you might ask?

• It only takes a few minutes of your time to participate!

1. Visit brocku.interviewstream.com to "Create Account"
2. Click on "Conduct an Interview" and choose "Create for Me"
3. Complete "Mock Interview Madness Contest" Interview

Don't forget to check all our social medias (Instagram: @brockcareerzone or Twitter: @BrockCareerZone) for a contest running this week as well!

Mock Interview Madness - InterviewStream

HEY BADGERS!

Are you looking an internship, summer, or part-time job? Do you want to brush up on your interview skills? Well, this month is perfect for you! CareerZone is hosting its annual Mock Interview Madness contest!!

What is the Mock Interview Madness contest?
The Mock Interview Madness contest runs from March 1st, 2020 to March 31st, 2020. Schools all across North America will be participating in this contest. In order to win the overall contest, the rules are simple...we must get the highest amount of students to participate!

How can you participate in the contest?
It only takes a few minutes of your time to participate!

1. Visit brocku.interviewstream.com to "Create Account"
2. Click on "Conduct an Interview" and choose "Create for Me"
3. Complete "Mock Interview Madness Contest" Interview

Mock Interview Madness Contest PRIZE
By answering the "Mock Interview Madness Contest" question, you will be automatically entered into the contest.

1. Chance to win a gift card for dinner and a movie!!!
AND
2. Help Brock CareerZone win a grand prize of $500!


Additional Social Media Contest
CareerZone will also be having an additional social media contest which will run from March 9th - March 13th!!! The contest will be on Instagram and Twitter platforms and here is how you can participate in the contest: Comment/reply on the post "What is your greatest Interview fear?". This question will be posted on both Instagram and Twitter.

Students that comment on the post with their response to the question, will be entered in the contest for a chance to win a $25 Dining Gift Card, as well as CCEE swag!

The Importance of InterviewStream
Do you have an upcoming interview? Are you looking to improve your interview skills? The InterviewStream application can help with that!

InterviewStream is an interview tool that uses webcam and microphone recording. The application can help students make an excellent first impression, while setting one up for a successful interview by providing feedback and tips of non-behaviour and communication missteps.

Check out the InterviewStream application and enter into the Mock Interview Madness Contest.

If you have any questions in regards to the contest or want interview preparation resources, please stop by CareerZone and talk with one of our Career Assistants!

CareerZone Hours:
Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm; Extended Hours on Thursday's from 8:30am-6:30pm
**drop-in service, no appointment needed**
#ExperienceMore #WILpower

National Co-op & Work Integrated Learning Month

Hey Badgers! 

Have you heard of National Co-op & Work Integrated Learning Month? Each year, CEWIL Canada (Co-operative Education and Work Integrated Learning) celebrates the successes and promotes awareness of co-op and work-integrated learning programs across Canada. Brock University’s Co-op, Career and Experiential Education (CCEE) unit participates in this annual event to help promote the successes of our students, partnerships and programs. To participate in any of our social media contests tag us and use the following hashtags! #WILPower #ExperienceMore

What is #ExperienceMore?

Throughout the month of March, we invite students, faculty, employers and community partners to learn about, reflect on and engage in activities that go beyond the classroom, that encourage students to explore new possibilities as they prepare for their life beyond university.  As our school motto says – Surgite!  Push on, try new things and say yes to new opportunities. 

What’s Happening in March?

Cupcake Giveaway!

Do you have a sweet tooth? CareerZone is having a Cupcake Giveaway on March 3^rd 2020! Visit CareerZone on-the-go between 10:30am – 12:00pm in front of the Computer Commons and make a statement and/or take a picture capturing how you live “ExperienceMore” to receive a cupcake. This is an excellent way to show off your love for Brock and also enjoy a delicious dessert. 

Interview Stream Mock Interview Madness Contest

Mock Interview Madness Month is here!!! Throughout the month of March, brush up on your interview skills through the online platform, InterviewStream. Once logged onto the platform https://brock.interviewstream.com/, select “Conduct an Interview” > “Created For Me” > “Mock Interview Madness Contest” to answer the question “Tell us about your greatest accomplishment”.  Upon completion you’ll be entered into a draw for a prize and help Brock win Mock Interview Madness!!!

Additionally, students will have the opportunity to participate in a one week social media contest from March 9-13^th by commenting on the question “What is your greatest interview fear”?  Every response is eligible to win a prize! Stay tuned to the CareerZone Instagram for more details!

How to Experience More Workshop

Join our Senior Career Assistants, Chloe and Niraj on March 10^th from 12:00-12:30pm in CareerZone to learn about the many different ways to get involved at Brock and #ExperienceMore.

Social Media Contests

During the week of March 16^th- March 20^th, share your #ExperienceMore moment with us on Instagram! The contest requirements are: to follow us on Instagram, be sure to tag us in your post in order to be entered into a draw to win a prize! Please ensure your account is public so you’re entered into the contest!

Pizza Giveaway

On March 27^th from 2:00-3:00pm in CareerZone, join us in CareerZone to take a short video or picture explaining your #ExperienceMore moment and get a free slice of pizza.

CareerZone Café Workshops

Need some energy to get you through exams? Come visit CareerZone for your caffeine fix! While you’re here be sure to stick around for some great presentations by our Senior CA’s! Our topics include:

March 3^rd – Using LinkedIn for Networking (12pm)

March 12^th – A Guide to Summer Job Search (11:30am)

March 18^th – How to identify and translate your skills (1:30pm)

March 25^th – Your next big break! A Successful Guide to Interviews (1pm)

We look forward to your engagement throughout the month of March!  #ExperienceMore #WILPower

It's time for.... Summer Job Search!!

Summer! Summer! Summer! One of the most exciting seasons there is! There are many opportunities available and events to take part in. Well, do you also know what that means...? Summer Jobs! Internships! Spring/Summer Co-ops! Woohoo! Don’t worry if you don’t know how to search for employment opportunities, this blog will provide you with all the necessary information you will need, in order to be successful in your job search and unlocking your hidden potential.

Do you know exactly where you want to work.... No? Well that’s alright. Discovering your interest is the first thing needed to unlock your potential. Make a list of all the places that are of interest in your area. This may include things that may align with your beliefs, values, your field of study or just an opportunity to take part in an adventurous or exciting experience during the summer. If you don’t know exactly the profession you are interested in, don’t fret! Explore occupations best suited to your interests, skills and values by taking a career assessment tab on our website on CareerZone at www.careerzone.brocku.ca . Assessments such as CareerCruising, TypeFocus and Talentoday are self-exploration activities that help you learn more about yourself by identifying your personality, skills, motivations and preferred work environments.

When was the last time you reviewed your resume, cover letters etc.? Days? Weeks?

Months? Or even Years? Don’t wait until a deadline is fast approaching before it forces you to revise your document. A regular review will help you catch those tiny mistakes in your documents, while making you sound more professional. Have your resume and cover letter documents reviewed at CareerZone for formatting and the development of strong statements. Doing this will make you more familiar with your own experiences and thus makes it easier to relate or develop connections to a wide variety of opportunities.

To start your job search look at various social media sites to find potential employers, connect with other professionals, which can aid in finding potential hidden job markets. Can’t find the job you are looking for? No worries! Consider similar work settings that may use a similar skill set in your field of interest. Stay positive, focused and persistent throughout the job process as it can take time. Sometimes it may be hard to find a job in your field, but consider volunteering throughout the summer to gain more experience!

Helpful Links [On Campus]

• Most positions are posted between late December to mid-March with concentration in January and February.
• CareerZone website [http://careerzone.brocku.ca/]
• Brock’s Workday [https://brocku.ca/workday/] · B.U.S.U [https://www.brockbusu.ca/involvement/opportunities/jobs/]
• Recreation Jobs [https://brocku.ca/recreation/student-jobs/]
• Brock Human Resources [https://brocku.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/brocku_careers] 
• Student Life Community Experience [https://brocku.ca/student-life/main/join-our-team/] ·
  
  
  

Helpful Links [Off-Campus]

• Some positions are posted on the CareerZone website or on the company’s website. · Health Care Jobs in Canada [www.healthcarejobs.ca].
• Look at Federal, Provincial and Municipal government opportunities within your community. · Interest in summer camps: http://www.campresource.com/
• CERF Niagara: http://www.cerfniagara.com/en/ (Helpful Francophone Employment and Resource Center)
• Indeed.com offers lots of jobs in a large variety of fields

Finally...don't stress! Make sure your resume is up to date and visit us in CareerZone to ensure you are incorporating skills employers will want to see. 

Keeping up with Goodman 📈

Hey Badgers! Getting involved during your University career can make the difference between having an ok time to have an amazing time. I can say from my personal experience, some of my best and brightest memories at Brock were made from joining a student club and getting involved on campus. Brock has so much to offer its students that we cannot just have one blog post to it, so we are dedicating this post to the Goodman Business Students!

There’s no better time to be a Goodman student than right now! As second semester is underway there are a plethora of events, clubs and teams to get involved in. Goodman Career is the department at Brock University which works with the Goodman student body and helps develop the talent pool at Brock. Whatever advice you may need pertaining to your future career and job search Goodman Career will have the answer.

Interested in applying to a job, but don’t know if your resume will make the cut? Goodman Career is here for you. From LinkedIn reviews to graduate school applications, to mock interviews they are the one stop shop for all your career related questions. Find us through the Goodman Portal on careerzone.brocku.ca or visit us at the Gate to get those career-related questions answered!

Goodman Career is hosting its final "Exploring Careers in..." series of the year on February 12, 2020 from 5-7pm. Exploring Careers in Entrepreneurship is a chance for students to hear from REAL entrepreneurs who turned their passions into a career. Students will also have the opportunity to hear about working for startups and how the culture of a company can change depending on its team and size. For more events like this log on to careerzone.brocku.ca, click on the "Goodman Career" events tab to register.

Looking to get involved in some other ways? Business students interested in student leadership can look to join the Business Students Association. A club which over sees all the business clubs at Brock. Umbrella clubs which are also looking for more student engagement include the Accounting Students Association, Brock Finance and Investments Group, Brock Innovation Group, Women in Business, Brock Marketing Association and more. More information can be found through the clubs social media pages, or visit the Business Students Association office at GSB 309.

If you’re looking to practice your pitching skills there are many cases and pitch style competitions to take part in. This year Goodman placed in the top 3 at the JDCC Case Competition and brought home a number of trophies from DECA Provincials. The Monster Pitch competition is another way to develop your presentation skills and sell the idea of a product or service. Follow the Goodman BSA and other related business student clubs to learn about more opportunities to get involved. The Goodman School of Business provides an excellent supporting step to get involved. I suggest starting to look at what you’re interested in now for the following school year. Make the most of your University career. After all, these are the best years of your life!

Don't forget, stop by CareerZone located in Market Hall, or come see us at the Gate located at the end of the Canadian Tire Bridge for document reviews or get your questions answered! Hours for the Winter semester are: Tuesday from 9am-1pm, Wednesday from 9am-2pm, Thursday 11:30am-2:30pm, and Friday from 9am-12pm!