Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Rasheedat Ladipo moved to Canada to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce Co-op degree. She is now in her fourth year of the program, completing a major in Accounting. “I believed that gaining up to a year of professional work experience during my studies would give me a competitive edge and help me transition more smoothly into the Canadian workforce.”

Rasheedat’s first co-op was at Property Valuation Services Corporation. “I worked in their communications department as an Internal Communication Advisor. I created content for directors, executives, and employees across the organization.” Though this experience was not in accounting, Rasheedat greatly values what she learned in this field.

“During my first co-op job search, I underestimated the process. I only applied to one accounting firm, feeling confident I would be selected.” Rasheedat was unfortunately rejected, leaving her to miss openings for other firms. However, she did not lose her determination. “I expanded my search beyond accounting jobs and chose to utilize my previous experience in communications to apply for communication roles.”

During her second co-op, Rasheedat knew she needed to gain the valuable experience in accounting that she was aiming for. “I self-developed my co-op at Deloitte. This was a direct result of the lessons I learned from my first co-op search, where I had limited my options and started too late. This time, I was more proactive. I began my search early, during my first co-op, and diversified my approach.” At Deloitte, she gained lasting relationships and important experience.

Rasheedat is currently completing her third and final co-op at PwC in audit and assurance, which she also self-developed. “My final co-op at PwC has been a rewarding experience. I am part of an amazing team, a supportive, vibrant and welcoming work culture that values diversity. The firm also has a great mentorship program, that has greatly enriched my professional development.”

Last year, Rasheedat was the recipient of a national company’s accounting scholarship for Black students. “At first, I hesitated to apply. I knew the scholarship was highly competitive, and I doubted my chances. In fact, I ended up submitting my application on the very last day. Looking back, I’m so glad I did because I was thrilled to learn that I had been selected! What made it even more special was finding out that I was the only recipient from Nova Scotia.” Rasheedat recognizes the importance of her determination and ambition. “It truly felt like a win, and it reminded me of the importance of taking chances, even when you’re unsure of the outcome.”