Ellie Judson, a fourth-year student from Calgary, Alberta, is pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce Co-op degree with a major in Marketing Management. She was drawn to Dalhousie for its unique co-op program, which allows students to gain real-world experience while completing their degree in just four years. Having taken a gap year and working in an office for nine months prior to her time at Dal, she was eager and confident to join this program.

Ellie’s first two work terms were in Halifax, where she worked for entrepreneurial companies. The first company being Business Network International (BNI), where she learned about the importance of networking and leveraging connections. “This was possibly the most beneficial first co-op I could have had,” she shares. The skills she gained in her time there led her to her second self developed co-op with Capture It Photography. During her work term, Ellie continued to leverage her networking skills, gaining connections at the various events she took part in while also further developing he creative abilities. “In both these positions, there was an emphasis on my individual skills which bolstered my confidence and pushed me to grow beyond my initial expectations,” she adds.

Through this gained confidence, Ellie was able to secure her third co-op which was also self-developed, at an athletic development NFP organization called WinSport, where she was the Marketing Coordinator. Here, she received the experience of working on a larger team, collaborating with other members of the department on various projects throughout the summer.

Reflecting on her co-ops, Ellie shares that one of the biggest lessons she learned throughout her work terms was the importance of networking and leveraging your connections. “The world operates through referrals and connections so if you can navigate that area with confidence, you can excel in the professional world,” she states. Another valuable lesson she learned, is the importance of keeping an open mind and maintaining the willingness to try new things. Working for an organization centered around athletic development was not something she had imagined for herself; however, it ended up being a deeply gratifying experience and one that she will always value. “The things you could benefit the most from, you might not even be aware of.”

Ellie believes the most valuable aspect of networking is gaining exposure to new industries, ideas, and perspectives. A simple conversation can open new paths and offer insights you never considered before. Her favourite way to network is by engaging in casual, low-pressure chats as she has found they lead to more impactful and meaningful conversations. Ellie emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency in maintaining connections, as well as staying in touch regularly to strengthen relationships over time. Her advice to those new to networking is to start small and work your way up.

Looking ahead, Ellie is excited to start her professional career after a well-deserved break. Reflecting on her university experience, she values the connections she has made with fellow students, professors, and past employers. “I’ve found that the personal aspects of university can be just as educational as the academic parts if you engage yourself,” she shares. Although she is content with her journey, Ellie wishes she had explored more potential interests through electives. In the future, she plans to leverage the Dal alumni network and truly believes that the connections she has made during her time here, are some of her most valuable gains. “I’ve made some of my best friends through this program and met some incredible leaders, all of whom I plan to keep in touch with.”