Never Say Never

When I attended my New Student Orientation, I sat with thousands of my peers, listening to older students speak about their university experiences. They spoke about participating in co-op and internships, working on research, and studying abroad. I thought to myself, I am never doing that. Now, going into my fourth year of studies, I am so glad I was wrong.

The work experience I never planned on

In my first-year, I was more focused on adjusting to a new city and university life. But in my second year, I began to think more about my future career. How could I supplement my learning? How can I earn money during my degree? What can I do to better prepare to find a job afterwards? So, I attended a co-op information session and decided, contrary to my thoughts in first-year orientation, that maybe this was something I should do. 

Now, I’ve completed eight months of full-time work, one work term at the University of Calgary’s Student Success Centre and one at International Student Services. In both these roles, I have gained invaluable work-experience, networked with staff and students on campus, grew my skillset, and made many friends. I intend to pursue my final 4-month work term in 2027. In my opinion, co-op in is a fantastic way to “dip your toes in the water” and get work experience. Most surprisingly, it also has helped me become a better student by teaching me skills like organization, time management, and work-life balance.
 

The research opportunity I couldn't resist

In my second year, I took a developmental psychology course. I discovered I was very enthusiastic about the content. I would ask multiple questions in class and chat with the professor once class had ended. I found myself wanting to gain a deeper understanding, so when positions opened in this professor’s lab, I applied immediately. 

I interviewed and joined the Social Emotional Assets (SEA) Lab. Since beginning in the SEA Lab in January 2025, I have helped coordinate the FINCHY Hub, analyzed data, created a research proposal, and presented my research poster at an international conference in Incheon, South Korea in June 2026. Research has been an amazing experience, it has allowed me to learn in a different way, study a topic of interest in detail, and apply my knowledge in real-world scenarios. Again, I proved my first-year self wrong as research has really enhanced my degree, ignited a new passion, and led me to my intended career path.

The study-abroad experience I almost missed

At one point in my second year, I thought that because I had been wrong about co-op and research, that I might as well be 3 for 3 and try studying abroad. In May and June 2025, I went on a 5-week Global Classroom Program (previously called Global Study Programs). During the program, I went to 6 European countries to study the sustainability of various cities through a geographical and urban studies lens. We went to France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Italy. 

Not only was I able to travel, but I earned 12 UCalgary course credits through the program. I tried great food, met a lot of cool people, immersed myself in new cultures, all while learning about sustainability and receiving credits for my degree. This may be my favourite university experience yet! I look back and think I can’t believe I almost didn’t experience this, all because I was quick to shutdown something I was unsure of.

Honestly, I'm glad I let my curiosity win. I ended up learning so much through co-op, research, and studying abroad. If I had let my initial reaction stop me from pursuing the many opportunities UCalgary had to offer, I would have missed out on some of my favourite university experiences. Not only did I add practical achievements to my degree like adding to my resume, networking with people from various backgrounds, and laying a foundation for my future career, but I have grown as a person by expanding my mindset, gaining valuable knowledge beyond the classroom, creating many treasured memories, and making lifelong friends. 

My best advice to any university student is to not restrict yourself—never say never!