Aliya's January
Week 2 Reflection
What was one learning objective or goal you had entering this co-op placement? Did you accomplish it? How so/why not?
One learning objective I had entering this co-op placement as a Business Development Assistant was to improve my communication and interpersonal skills in a professional environment. I wanted to learn how to effectively engage with clients and collaborate with team members to support business growth. I accomplished this by making cold calls to potential clients, observing client interactions, and taking on tasks that required clear and professional communication. My supervisor provided constructive feedback, which helped me refine my skills further. Additionally, I gained confidence in presenting ideas and learned how to adapt my approach to suit different stakeholders. This experience taught me the importance of active listening, clear articulation, and building strong professional relationships, all of which will benefit me in future roles.
What is the most memorable thing about your placement at U+? It can be an interaction, a project, a skill. Explain it.
The most memorable part of my placement at U+ was going in person, meeting my peers, and forming friendships with them. Working alongside people created a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere, making the transition into the professional world much smoother and more fun. We collaborated on projects, shared ideas, and motivated one another, which enhanced my learning experience. Building these connections not only helped me feel comfortable but also showed me how valuable teamwork and camaraderie are in a workplace. This sense of community made every day exciting and memorable, turning challenges into opportunities to grow with my peers.
How has your co-op experience at U+ influenced your career aspirations? (Consider the roles you are open to take on, working model/location, uncompromisable workplace values, etc.)
My co-op experience at U+ reaffirmed my passion for business and solidified my decision to pursue it as a career. Working as a Business Development Assistant exposed me to real-world business operations and taught me the value of organization, communication, and adaptability. This experience helped me identify roles I am eager to explore in the future, such as client relations, sales, and strategy development. It also emphasized the importance of working in a supportive and collaborative environment where innovation and growth are prioritized. I now know that I thrive in a dynamic workplace with clear values of teamwork, respect, and integrity. Additionally, this role reinforced my openness to hybrid or remote working models, as I learned to adapt to different workflows and maintain productivity in any setting. Overall, this experience has given me a clearer vision of my future in the business field.
Write a six-word memoir about your co-op experience. (E.g., “the best routes are rarely pre-mapped.”)
Growing skills, confidence, and new friendships.
