Fourth-year Bachelor of Commerce Co-op student Malikah Tankard’s Dalhousie experience has been shaped by her desire to gain hands-on experience and explore the different possibilities within marketing. Originally from Bermuda, she chose Dalhousie because of its co-op program and the opportunity to immerse herself in the marketing field before completing her degree.

Malikah’s first co-op with Digital Nova Scotia introduced her to creating content for a broad audience. As Membership & Communications Coordinator, she developed member-focused articles and videos, interviewed members, created graphics, updated the website, and represented the organization at networking events. “My first co-op introduced me to writing for a broader audience, which was a transition from academic writing.”

Her second co-op with Symplicity Designs allowed Malikah to explore the analytical side of marketing. As a Marketing Associate, she used Google Analytics to track website data, created LinkedIn content for Symplicity Designs and its subcompany, Levership, and developed website landing pages. “My second co-op helped me develop my understanding of brand management and how marketing analytics can guide strategy by writing for two different target audiences and following separate brand guidelines.”

For her final co-op, Malikah brought together the skills she developed throughout her previous experiences as a Marketing Intern with Halifax Tides FC. The role immersed her in sports marketing, from brainstorming content and developing social media copy to creating newsletters, editing videos, and posting game-day content. No two days looked the same, with some weeks involving promotional photoshoots, school visits, filming at practice, content brainstorming, and game days.

Some of Malikah’s most memorable experiences came through Halifax Tides’ work in the community, particularly with women’s sports. She worked on FIFA activations in Halifax during the World Cup and helped with a ‘School’s Out for the Summer’ themed match, which set an attendance record and brought thousands of school-aged children to the game. “These moments were significant because of the energy surrounding them and the opportunity to help shine a light on women’s sports.”

Outside of co-op, Malikah has developed her leadership skills through the Dalhousie Women in Business Association (WIBA). “WIBA holds a wide range of events and has a supportive community that I wanted to be a part of.” She initially became involved as a Conference Representative after enjoying previous WIBA conferences and wanting to help create a memorable experience for other students. Now, serving as Conference Co-Chair, she’s part of the planning process, working alongside WIBA’s executive team.

Malikah’s co-op journey has taught her the importance of staying open-minded throughout the job search. “I think students preparing for their first co-op should be open to all roles in their desired field. There is something to be learned from every experience that can be applied in the future.” Networking also played an important role in securing her final co-op; she reached out to a previous supervisor for advice and a reference, which ultimately helped her secure the position. Looking back on her first co-op search, Malikah says, “I wish I had been more patient and shown more of my personality. It is easy to get overwhelmed, so trust the process.”