Work Term Excellence Award: Shizhe Zhong

Portrait of Shizhe Zhong

“Embrace diversity in your experiences.”

– William Choi, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Specialist in Finance (Co-op) candidate, University of Toronto Scarborough
 
Congratulations to Shizhe, recipient of a Management Co-op Work Term Excellence Award for her contributions at RBC in Summer 2023!
 
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Tell us about your experience at RBC. What were your key learnings?

What I find most compelling about RBC’s culture is its emphasis on agility and continuous learning. There’s a strong focus on adapting quickly, knowing when to push forward, pivot, or let go. My most interesting project involved supporting market intelligence efforts and sourcing content to align with prevailing ETF market themes and sales prospects, thereby enhancing the team’s competitiveness in the ETF landscape.
 

I had the privilege of learning from a diverse array of mentors, extending beyond just my manager or immediate team. While each individual offered unique insights and guidance, the collective mentorship culture within the organization was truly invaluable. One of the most important lessons I gleaned from working with this dynamic group was the significance of building an inclusive environment and continuous learning.
 

Why is the Management Co-op program at U of T Scarborough the right fit for you? 

The Management Co-op program stands out as the pinnacle of my decision to pursue a business degree, as it offers an opportunity to explore multiple areas of business across 12 months of combined work experience. The hands-on approach allows me to accumulate invaluable real-world experience and insights. Moreover, the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program fosters a sense of community that is hard to find elsewhere. I was able to build close connections with both faculty and fellow students, cultivating not only academic relationships but also lasting friendships. I feel supported to put myself out there and raise my hand for opportunities.
 

What are your career goals? 

I value an environment that fosters continuous learning, and one of my goals is to obtain my CFA designation to deepen my expertise in investments.
 

Advice for future students? 

Embrace diversity in your experiences. Explore various opportunities to broaden your skill set and perspective. Don’t hesitate to connect with professors and faculty members; building relationships with them can be invaluable. Stay curious and genuinely interested in others’ work—it opens doors to new opportunities and connections.

Management Awards