Third-year Bachelor of Commerce Co-op student Hailey Duivenvoorden’s Dalhousie experience has been shaped by her willingness to get involved, build connections, and make the most of every opportunity. Originally from Elmvale, Ontario, Hailey chose Dalhousie for its Bachelor of Commerce Co-op program and the opportunity to gain real-world experience through three mandatory co-op work terms.

As an Accounting major, Hailey has been able to put what she learns in the classroom into practice through her co-op experiences with Deloitte. During her first co-op in Tax, she worked through busy season, preparing tax forms for clients to submit to the Canada Revenue Agency. Her work exposed her to corporate and personal taxes, as well as trust returns, helping her develop a stronger understanding of financial statements and corporate structures. After enjoying her first term, Hailey returned to Deloitte for her second co-op, where she is now gaining experience in tax planning. “I really enjoyed the work I was doing during my first term and wanted to learn more about tax planning and the various factors that influence Canada’s tax system.”

Several factors initially attracted Hailey to Deloitte, including its professional reputation, CPA program, and company culture. However, it was the people and her experience with her team that ultimately made her want to return. By the end of her first co-op, Hailey had built strong relationships and expanded her professional network. When her senior manager approached her about a return offer, she felt that accepting was the right decision. “Everyone’s situations are different, and I think it’s important to choose the path that is best for you and your own goals.”

Outside of the classroom and co-op, Hailey has made the most of her time at Dalhousie through her involvement with the Women in Business Association (WIBA). She began as a first-year representative before becoming a Marketing Co-chair in her second year, where she helped with social media, event promotion, and planning WIBA’s first annual Her Impact Case Competition. Now serving as Director of Academics, Hailey is helping organize the second annual competition. Her involvement with WIBA has shown her the value of putting herself out there and making the most of the opportunities around her. “I’ve always believed that student societies are what you make of them; the more effort you put in, the more you get out of the experience.”

The Toronto Corporate Tour was another important part of Hailey’s early Dalhousie experience. Participating in the Finance stream gave her the opportunity to visit companies, learn more about careers in the industry, and connect with alumni and professionals. During the alumni social, she made connections that led to coffee chats with recruiters from large banks. Beyond the professional opportunities, Hailey valued the chance to meet new people, make friends, and build relationships with Dalhousie staff and the Management Career Services team. “It’s a unique opportunity that not many other schools offer, and it’s one of the experiences that really contributes to the Dal Effect.”

Hailey’s first case competition, the PepsiCo Beyond Business Case Competition, also helped her build confidence in communication and public speaking. Her team placed third overall, while the experience allowed her to make valuable connections and step outside her comfort zone. She carried that same approach into her co-op search, using networking opportunities through WIBA to connect with Deloitte employees and learn more about the company through lunch with other co-op students and coffee chats with Deloitte managers. By the time applications and interviews began, Hailey already had a stronger understanding of the firm and its culture. “You’re not only trying to get hired but also figuring out whether you’ll be a good fit for the role and the workplace.”

For Hailey, getting involved early has been an important part of her Dalhousie experience. From student societies and case competitions to networking and co-op, she encourages first-year students to take advantage of the opportunities around them and not be afraid to put themselves out there. “Upper-year students want to see you succeed. They want you to get involved, and they are often more than willing to share their experiences and help you with your co-op search.”