As he nears the end of his second co-op work term at RBC Dominion Securities, Gagandeep Singh Multani has been reflecting on all he learned behind the scenes in wealth management. “I can see the change in my performance. My attention to detail has increased, and my multitasking ability improved significantly.”

The work environment “felt emotionally healthy and conducive to the learning process. People were helpful and encouraged questions and curiosity.” Multani appreciated the opportunities for interns to explore different avenues within RBC, like commercial banking, capital markets and portfolio advisory group. Multani added, “There were also many opportunities to participate in social gatherings, book launches, and celebrations, as well as multiple training and development sessions conducted by finance professionals. Attending them helped me to enhance my knowledge and hear real-world perspectives while working through my Finance Post-Baccalaureate Diploma.”

While Multani identifies his accomplishments, “being trusted by senior leaders and having their faith in me to work independently, being able to help my team run operations smoothly and without errors is one of my biggest contributions.”

Suhita Banerjee, assistant branch operations manager, associate, RBC Wealth Management, said, “It’s difficult to describe Gagandeep’s co-op term in a single sentence that does justice to his growth. His perseverance to meet overarching goals through small, consistent actions aligned with my belief that the strength of teams lies in all its members and all the members, in turn, are responsible for the team’s strength.”

He also acknowledged that one of the challenges he experienced was being overwhelmed by a multitude of tasks within a particular timeline. “I was often swamped – and everything needed to be done efficiently and correctly. However, approaching tasks with a calm mind and having supportive colleagues helped me to do my tasks. It’s essential to have an open mind, learn everything that comes your way, and take initiative to get involved as much as possible at work.”

Being a part of the co-op program has helped Multani find his footing in the finance industry. “It has been pivotal to creating a solid foundation which will form the bedrock of success for my career moving forward. The COOP 1000 lectures helped me build interpersonal skills by involving me in activities with my peers. Also, it helped me improve my resume.

“Co-op isn’t just about gaining work experience or hands-on learning; it’s about discovering your potential in a real-world setting,” said Lisa Lambert, co-op co-ordinator. “Gagandeep’s ability to adapt, navigate challenges, make meaningful contributions and develop industry knowledge exemplifies how powerful co-op can be as a learning tool.”

Multani’s advice to future co-op students:

• Network as much as possible – not just with professional contacts, but with more experienced co-op students – especially before or during your first co-op.
• Contact people through Linkedin or email and invite them for coffee. (If someone gives you a business card, follow up!)
• Engage in co-op, experiential learning, student clubs, peer mentorship and volunteerism. Getting hands-on experience is irreplaceable and significantly increases your chances of getting a job in your field after graduation.

Co-operative education blends on-campus learning with practical applied learning. Learn more at tru.ca/cel.