Toronto-born Kali O’Neil, a fourth-year Bachelor of Commerce Co-op student, chose Dalhousie because she believed “the co-op program would not only be beneficial for my educational growth, but for gaining real-world experience and overall personal growth.”
Kali’s co-op journey has taken her across the globe, starting with her first work term in winter 2024 in London, England, at UK Power Networks. Working in Financial Risk and Assurance, she stepped into completely new territory. “I was nervous at first and didn’t realize just how different the culture would be.” Despite the initial adjustment, she settled in faster than she expected. “I have never felt so included and supported – every member of my team was genuinely invested in my learning and made sure I felt at home.”
Her second co-op brought her back to London and back to UK Power Networks, this time on the Commercial Litigation team. “Sitting in on real cases and helping pursue settlements sparked a strong interest in law and ultimately inspired me to pursue a degree in the field after graduation.” Kali’s decision to return to the company was intentional. “I truly felt supported, included, and valued during my first co-op,” she says. Knowing she wanted to shift towards law, Kali built strong relationships with the in-house legal team. “Before I finished my term, I kept in touch with the General Counsel, and a few months before my second co-op, I expressed my enthusiasm about returning under his team. This communication made the process seamless.”
Kali completed her final co-op in New York City with the private credit firm, Turning Rock Partners. After building a connection with the company over time, she joined their investment team this past summer. “Although I had been fairly set on law, I’m incredibly grateful for this experience; it taught me valuable lessons in finance and analysis that I continue to draw on in both my academic work and future career planning.”
Living and working abroad challenged Kali in ways that have shaped who she is today. “Working abroad didn’t just push me outside my comfort zone – it completely reshaped how I learn, adapt, and navigate the world.” Experiencing corporate cultures across different countries has helped her develop key personal and professional skills. “Those differences taught me to be open-minded, resilient, and curious, and they became some of the most defining lessons of my journey so far.”
For students considering a work term abroad, Kali encourages curiosity and connection. “Build your connections, and don’t be afraid to ask people about their experiences.” She highlights that her favourite networking question, Where has your favourite place to work been? often leads to meaningful conversations. “The more I mature, the more I realize that travel and working in different environments are universal conversation starters.”
Looking ahead, Kali plans to maximize the next few years. “After graduation, I’m hoping to take a year off and return to London while my visa is still valid. I want to work, travel, and make the most of being in Europe. During that time, I also plan to study for the LSAT, and apply to law school for the 2027 academic year.”
Kali’s journey shows that embracing new environments and building meaningful connections can not only shape your career but who you become along the way.