Nearing the end of Kevin Clyde’s co-op work term, Orientation and Transitions Coordinator Julie Taylor reflects on their time together; she credits Kevin’s student perspective as being a deeply influential component to the department as it expanded over the last year.
During the multi-faceted elements of the orientation planning process, “Kevin gained insights into working within an institution and the processes when dealing with various campus stakeholders. He learned how to deal with many working parts such as outside contractors, student volunteers, administration, and staff volunteers.”
Following the first week of school, the work continued by way of connecting with students and directing them to appropriate services.
Kevin designed all interactive and informative materials for the TRU Experience and played a key role alongside campus experts out on BMO Student Street. During the weekly sessions, Kevin connected with students regarding everything from career advice to wellness tips. Julie credits his efforts to make more social media fun and relatable for students. Julie also references Kevin’s exceptional interpersonal skills as being his strong suit over the working term.
Julie says, “Kevin will definitely be missed! He’s a really hard worker and a great listener” she continues, “also, he made the office smell delicious with his raisin and cinnamon bagels.”
Kevin describes the term as “an incredible professional experience.” He refers to the planning and execution of the First-Year Convocation Ceremony at TRU Orientation as his “biggest accomplishment. It involved an incredible amount of time and effort, with minute-by-minute planning, coordinating with numerous personnel, writing scripts, and so much more.”
He refers to his collective co-op experience as a personal and professional evolution: “I’ve learned so much about myself in regards to recognizing my strengths within a professional context, as well as areas that require growth and improvement.”
In addition, Kevin’s experience with Orientation has taught him about the many details that encompass the planning process: “taking initiative and thinking outside of the box; how to successfully plan large and small-scaled events while accounting for the smaller logistical details; and how to prioritize and manage my time at an entirely new level.”
As he approaches graduation the Arts and Psychology Major acknowledges the true value of this experience: “This work term has been the most beneficial professional experience of my life thus far, and I am truly grateful for those who guided me along the way.”
For more information about the Co-op program visit the website or call 250-371-5627.
