Aryan'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 was to improve my collaboration skills and work effectively in a team environment. I accomplished this goal by actively participating in projects with coworkers, such as working with Matthew and Rabia on accounting and budget-related tasks. I contributed ideas, encouraged teamwork, and even took on leadership roles, such as leading the youth mental health budget project. These experiences helped me develop better communication and active listening skills, allowing me to create strong working relationships and complete tasks efficiently. Working in a team-oriented work environment, has helped me accomplish this goal and learn a lot more about a workplace and myself.
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 aspect of my placement at U+ was leading the youth mental health budget project. This experience stood out because it allowed me to take on a leadership role, which pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow. I helped host meetings, facilitate discussions on Slack, and collaborate with my team to brainstorm ideas and create a budget plan. This project was impactful because it combined teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity to address an important issue. It also helped me improve my research and google spreadsheet skills. The project’s significance, both in terms of its purpose and the skills I developed, made it a memorable moment at my co-op placement.
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+ has influenced my career aspirations by broadening my perspective on the career options I am open to, the work environment I thrive in, and the values I prioritize in a workplace. After collaborating on so many projects with others, I now see myself pursuing roles that involve collaboration and problem-solving with diverse teams. I also am open to several working models and I believe a balance between in-person and virtual work is best. Additionally, I have come to value workplaces that prioritize respect, open communication, creativity and continuous learning. At U+, I felt supported in sharing ideas, taking initiative, and improving my skills, which helped me grow personally and professionally.
Write a six-word memoir about your co-op experience. (E.g., “the best routes are rarely pre-mapped.”)
New challenges faced, new skills gained.
