January Week 1 Reflection – Elina

Elina's January
Week 1 Reflection

What movie/book (standalone or series) best represents your co-op experience at U+? Explain why.

I would probably choose The Pursuit of Happyness. The story is about perseverance, self-improvement, and building relationships through challenging circumstances, in this case, the challenging circumstance is being online. My work with budgeting and project proposals shows how I’m developing the skills to manage complex situations and new challenges. The theme of making new connections is key to the movie. I’m not only learning professionally, but I’m also forming friendships, just like the character in the film builds a network to help him succeed.

 

What learning and/or skill development took place on the job that you wouldn’t have experienced in school?

I think one skill I’ve learned here during my co-op term is probably how to overcome challenges independently. In the school setting, there will always be a teacher there to guide you and help you when you come across issues. Here in co-op, the supervisor may not always be available to give you immediate responses, which forces me to come up with solutions by myself.

 

Did your understanding of the world of work change as a result of your participation in co-op this semester? How so/why not?

My understanding of the world of work definitely changed during my co-op experience. In school, I often think that someone is always watching our work, guiding us through tasks, and ensuring we’re on track. However, at U+, I realized that the workplace requires a different level of self-management. While support is available, a lot of the responsibility for getting work done falls on ourselves. This experience taught me the importance of self-direction; I had to stay on top of my tasks, manage my time effectively, and ensure I was making good progress.

 

Your personal values shape the needs you require in a workplace and motivates you to make certain career decisions. With your U+ experience, what are the top three values that must be satisfied when you consider a future workplace? (For example, but not exclusively: advancement; altruism; autonomy; creativity; detailed work; leadership; fast-paced; friendships; high salary; problem-solving; solitary work; teamwork; supportive supervisor; variability/change; work/life balance.) Briefly explain why you chose those three values.

“1. High salary. This will always be my number 1 because I’m definitely working for money, not anything else. Other values are important as well but money is the reason I’m working so it is top 1 on my list. If the job I’m considering doesn’t pay me well, I probably would look for a new one that pays better.
2. Supportive supervisor. A supportive supervisor is also important because they provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement, helping me navigate challenges and grow in your role.
3. Work/life balance. This is because I perform better when I know I’ll have the time to relax and do my personal activities/hobbies. It prevents burnout, reduces stress, and promotes overall happiness in me.”

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