Graduating with experience and career knowledge gives new graduates a critical advantage.
Brock University’s Goodman School of Business recognizes this and all three of their undergraduate programs — Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Accounting, and Bachelor of Business Administration International Dual/Double Degree — offer the opportunity for co-op, so students can apply their classroom knowledge while gaining valuable work experience. With a co-op employment rate of 96 per cent, your future career starts at Goodman.
Mediaplanet chatted with Goodman students Prabnik Sidhu and Noah Van Belle to hear firsthand about the co-op advantage.
Q&A
Prabnik Sidhu
Hometown: Brampton, Ont.
Fourth-year honours Bachelor
of Accounting Co-op Student
Tell us about your co-op experience.
Through co-op, I worked for 12 months with Deloitte as a tax analyst on the Business Tax team. My job entailed working on tax compliance, where I assisted in the preparation and review of income tax returns for individuals, corporations, and partnerships. Through my work, I ensured there was compliance with any relevant tax laws and regulations. I was often asked to analyze financial data and workpapers to support accurate and timely tax filings as well as to interact with clients to gather information, address inquiries, and provide tax-related advice. There were many opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including audit and advisory, to provide comprehensive client services.
How has co-op helped to clarify your career direction?
My work term played a vital role in shaping what my career direction looks like. It felt incredibly rewarding and fulfilling to have a work experience that aligned with my interests. I truly felt challenged in the workplace while being supported from both the co-op office and the Business Tax team at Deloitte. I felt a sense of gratification when realizing this industry is something I could see myself doing long-term.
Q&A
Noah Van Belle
Hometown: Oakville, Ont.
Fourth-year honours Bachelor of Business
Administration Co-op Student
Tell us about your co-op experience.
During two of my co-op placements, I worked closely with the Intelligent Automation team at Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Ltd. (Coke Canada) in the IT division. My team focused on utilizing emerging digital technologies within the company. My primary responsibilities were to develop applications using Microsoft Power Apps and to create automation solutions using Power Automate Desktop to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
How has co-op helped to clarify your career direction?
My co-op experience exposed me to a wider range of career options. I’ve always been interested in operational management roles, particularly those in supply chain management. The technicalities involved in creating and distributing products to customers fascinate me, especially in the case of consumer packaged goods companies. I’m passionate about driving operational efficiency and continuous improvement because of their problem-solving nature. For instance, my job at Coke Canada introduced me to innovative positions in IT. This experience sparked my interest in automation work, which complements my passion for continuous improvement and increased operational efficiency.
Break through in business at brocku.ca/goodman.
