Amanda Cosentino
Specialist: Management Co-op - Marketing
What factors contributed to you choosing your program(s)?
I had a lot of things running through my mind when I was trying to pick a program. The main reason why I selected this program was because a few of my cousins had taken this program years ago and had incredible co-op experiences. After hearing about how they got jobs right after graduation, thanks to co-op, I knew this program was for me. I am someone who needs to learn hands on and apply what I learned from the textbook in the real world. Not to mention, I also love working with people that have the same level of passion and drive as I do. Co-op also allowed me to explore a bunch of different areas; this was important to me because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. All in all, I made the right choice; it might have been the most challenging option, but it is certainly the right one for me.
Can you describe your program(s)? What is it actually like?
Challenge. That is one word that completely describes the Management Program. You will never catch a break in this program; you will always have to work hard and put your mind to whatever you have to do, even if you don’t particularly like it. This is exactly what real leaders do day in and day out. This program will truly give you the experience to lead. Each and every day, you are training your mind for a marathon that will span your entire career. Embrace the highs and the lows; you will learn something about yourself every step of the way.
What tips/advice can you provide to students just starting or considering this program(s)?
Study. Now is the time to learn. If you value your time, effort and money, take this program seriously. Make sure you are ahead of the curve and always on top of your work because it certainly piles up a lot faster than you think. Live a little. Okay, maybe more than a little. Just because this program is challenging doesn’t mean you should lock yourself in your room when you’re not in class. Go to the gym, join a club, go out at night and interact with people! And most importantly, be the first person to say hi! Even in my third-year classes I don’t know everyone all the time. Say “hi”, you are all on the same boat! Everyone needs a friend! Be Confident. I am not the best when it comes to math. That is quite paradoxical since 80% of the courses I have taken are math based. Be confident in what you know, who you are, and what your strengths are. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, spend long hours with the TA, or email the Professor. Your confidence will only continue to grow when you work hard. Don’t compare yourself to others just to put yourself down. Study, live a little, and be confident in yourself!
What will you do with your degree after graduation? (Future plans?)
Maybe I’ll change the world, maybe I’ll only change a few lives, but wherever I end up, I know I will be successful. I understand and truly value hard work, that’s why I believe what you put in, is what you’ll get out.
What has your academic journey during your time been like as you progress toward graduation?
This academic journey has actually been turning out to be more of a personal expedition. Through my academic work, I have figured out what I like and what I don’t, what my strengths are and where I need to improve. A major part of my journey has included co-op which is where I was able to apply my knowledge and skills to learn who I really am – in the classroom and in the workplace. This entire journey has been an uphill battle for me at times, but at the end of each semester, I have looked back and been proud of all the work and learning I was able to accomplish.
Carmen Cristina Radoescu
Specialist: Management (including Economics) and Marketing Co-op
What factors contributed to you choosing your program(s)?
I've always tried to find what I am passionate about. At the beginning I was confused but through coop I've discovered that Management and Marketing are interesting and compelling.
Can you describe your program(s)? What is it actually like?
One word for it would be: tough. It pushes you to the limits and challenges you to move forward. Every class, every course teaches you something new. You don't just learn the history and theory but you also look at future and current events
What tips/advice can you provide to students just starting or considering this program(s)?
Do your assigned work, but also find a field that you are interested in.
What will you do with your degree after graduation? (Future plans?)
I am planning on completing my MBA, and also work on projects that have an impact on a large scale.
What has your academic journey during your time been like as you progress toward graduation?
Currently, I am in my forth year. The UofT staff has made a tremendous impact on my journey. Each year I met new co-op advisors and professors that have changed and shaped my life in ways I could have never imagined. My experience has been outstanding.
Cynthia Wong
Specialist: Management Co-op - Marketing
What factors contributed to you choosing your program(s)?
Co-op, commuting distance, and high school friends.
Can you describe your program(s)? What is it actually like?
The Management Co-op program is a great program that taps into various streams of business, including Accounting, Economics, Finance, Human Resources, Marketing and Strategic Management. Because of this, Management students become well-rounded business leaders at the end of the program, who are able to comprehend and tackle challenging ideas and issues in the real world. One thing that makes the program so great is the co-op component. During the 3 work terms (that students have to seek for themselves), students get the opportunity to acquire excellent work experience in their related fields for their resumes and find out whether or not their specific chosen streams are really suitable for them. Given the competition in today's job market (especially for those coming right out of school), UTSC management co-op students have a huge advantage over those who do not have co-op experiences.
What tips/advice can you provide to students just starting or considering this program(s)?
- Take full advantage of the various resources on campus. This includes going to TA/ professor hours, using the finance lab, joining clubs, attending networking events, and getting advice/ help from the Co-op Management Office.
- Making friends within the program is key, especially with upper years. Not only can friends help you get access to past course material and give you some guidance on what professors/ courses you should take for upcoming semesters, but they can also help you get connected with hiring employers for your seeking terms!
- Play around with your course schedule. Don't try to cram all your courses into a few days, just to avoid having to commute to school more often on a weekly basis. This usually leads to heavy workloads and long school days, that leave you feeling exhausted/ drained! Over time, you'll learn what works best for you...and you'll be able to tailor your schedule accordingly. (However, I do recommend choosing the sections that your friends are in, so that group projects are done much more efficiently).
- Keep in contact with former employers/ coworkers that you do your work terms with... because you never know when you'll cross paths with them again in the future. ;)
What will you do with your degree after graduation? (Future plans?)
During first year, I would often answer this question vaguely with something along the lines of "Oh, I just want to do some kind of marketing job...for a big marketing company". However, having now completed 3 work terms (Crowe Soberman LLP, Ontario Power Generation and Toronto Hydro) all in very different fields of business (Accounting, Finance and Marketing, respectively), my eyes have opened to many new paths. Overall, I truly enjoyed working at Ontario Power Generation (OPG) the most, and have developed a genuine interest and passion for the energy sector. In the near future, I hope to continue working in this industry, and hopefully...even return to OPG! (:
What has your academic journey during your time been like as you progress toward graduation?
In my opinion, the two biggest obstacles for me at UTSC in this program were: getting through first year and securing my first work term. There's always going to be a "first" in our journeys in life, but it's so important to have confidence in what you do and to learn from your mistakes. As time progresses, you'll get familiar with your surroundings, pick up tips and tricks from others, and start to build up your work portfolio. The program itself is fairly challenging and competitive, and it will only become more challenging and competitive over the years. I can guarantee you that the Management program will make you experience a bunch of ups and down, along with a storm of corresponding emotions that range from excitement and joy to fear, anger and surprise. But HEY, the most important thing is to really enjoy your time here, and to learn how to balance out your academic life, social life, and extracurricular activities altogether. As cliché as it sounds... this 4-5 year program will go by so quickly that you'll miss it when it's done.
Lavan Chandran
Specialist: Management Co-op - Marketing
What factors contributed to you choosing your program(s)?
Ask yourself this: a) Will this program help me get to where I want to go? b) Does this program offer the greatest return? The Co-op Management program at UTSC easily checked off both questions for me. The school’s global ranking, geographic accessibility, and program structure couldn’t be found at any other university. The school’s global ranking brings the brightest students across the world into a 4 walled-room for collaboration and synergy. In addition, the school is well renowned for their diverse faculty who bring an extensive depth of research, skill sets, industry knowledge, and teaching style at the front of your desk. The geographic accessibility continues to be a priority for students who live in suburbs. After completing 3 coop placements in my program – there is no question that the commute will make or break your experience. Lastly, the program’s cooperative component will forever be the reason for the vast majority of business students. The business world is fast-paced, demanding, continuously changing and definitely overwhelming. The opportunity to do 3 coop placements allows students to explore various industries and prepares them for the real world ahead. Imagine doing an internship at Microsoft, Deloitte, RBC, etc.
Can you describe your program(s)? What is it actually like?
Honestly, a small community. This is an experience you can’t get anywhere else and everyone in the Management-Family can definitely testify to this. It doesn’t matter what year or specialization one is pursuing – the program structure allows you to get to know everyone in the program. Classrooms become more engaging as you get older and club involvement will give you a more fulfilling university experience. Also, the program is a hub for finding mentors as 1st and 2nd year students will have a list of senior students at their disposal in regards to interview preparation, resume/cover letter checks, coursework, and professional development.
What tips/advice can you provide to students just starting or considering this program(s)?
3 tips to remember:
- Positive Attitude Wherever you go or whatever you do - always have a positive attitude. Remove all negative assumptions or perceived notions before approaching and attempting anything in life. Anyone with a negative attitude has already been defeated.
- Willingness to Learn - Students don’t need to know all the answers but rather have a curious and driven mindset. Throughout my university career I realized that it’s completely acceptable to ask for help. The only person at loss is the one who didn’t have the courage to ask.
- Initiative - Students shouldn’t wait for a research assistant position to open up, when you can directly go the professor and discuss your interest in working alongside them. I encourage everyone to take the first step as the business world is built on young ambitious minds.
What will you do with your degree after graduation? (Future plans?)
I'm not too sure what I'll do with my degree after graduation - perhaps land an account managerial role somewhere in Toronto or work abroad in the U.S.
Other priorities after graduation:
- OSAP - I can't run forever
- Hit the gym – freshman 15 is real people
What has your academic journey during your time been like as you progress toward graduation?
It’s been a fulfilling journey and learning curve. I remember when I initially entered university I was certain that I would pursue accounting and achieve the CPA designation. After attending a networking event in 2nd year, I successfully landed an interview for KPMG‘s Conference. Unfortunately, I didn’t receive an offer and didn’t know where to go next. However, I soon found myself interviewing for PepsiCo to be a part of their Customer Development Team and got the offer. Fast-forward to 3rd year and my timetable has abandoned the CPA requirements and filled with marketing courses including advertising, branding, consumer behaviour, etc. No one can really predict what their career will be in the future. In the beginning I was totally driven to become a CPA, my lowest grade was in Marketing because I never thought that I would ever pursue that field. Now I am pursing marketing.