Last week, we had the privilege of hosting two of University Canada West's most accomplished alumni, Elva Fisher and Ario Heshmatzadeh 🇨🇦 at my #UCWWORK490 Capstone class for our #BeyondTheClassroom series.
Elva and Ario shared valuable stories and insights which inspired our students with engaging questions as they explore their career opportunities.
Both were extremely generous with their time (at a late hour) and beyond candid with their answers.
There were lots of takeaways to reflect on. While you may have heard some of these before, Elva and Ario brought them to life with personal stories and actionable advice, which our students could relate to:
💡The Importance of Self-Awareness💡: To be honest, this is an area I started becoming more "aware" of recently / after kids. It's amazing how much being a parent can help you learn about yourself (and test your patience 😂 ). Elva quoted best-selling author Tasha Eurich who defines self-awareness as "the ability to see ourselves clearly, to understand who we are, how others see us, and how we fit in the world". It's a journey for sure!
💡Learn to Resolve Conflict from a Young Age💡: I tell my students that conflict is part of life. We can't avoid it but we can learn healthy ways to manage it. Elva shared some strategies to overcome group conflict including scheduling, collaboration, and my favorite, setting clear expectations. Now, conflict about toys between my two little ones is another story😊
💡 Research, Connect & Reflect💡Ario encouraged students to research the organization(s) one may be interested in (how are they treating customers; reviews, social engagement etc.) and start connecting on LinkedIn with those who may work there (e.g. what's the culture like?). Also, asking ourselves: "Are our values aligned with those of the organization?"
💡 Do you Wish you had a Different Boss?💡 According to Ario (and he doesn't wish this on anyone), this may be the BEST thing that happens to you. Why? It will help you appreciate the good bosses you will have down the road and help to develop you into a leader you wish you had.
💡Be Specific💡How can you stand out from the thousands of students who graduate each year with the same degree? Your personal brand, network, and unique skillset. How can your unique skills benefit the organization? Anyone can "say" they have those skills. Therefore, you must be very specific and back up your claims (e.g. school projects, portfolio, social proof etc.)
💡Job Search can be Taxing. You are NOT Alone💡As Elva mentioned and while easier said than done, it's important NOT to take rejection emails personally. Do what you need to keep yourself motivated and positive, whether it means taking a break, finding a support system etc.
Thank you again so much, Elva, and Ario!!! 🙏
cc Camila Hernandez Tirado Bradley Fehr Lisette Marion Shingi Mwaramba
#ExperientialLearning #Capstone #UCWAlumni #CareerAdvice
Co-founder of Becoming | Human Development Specialist | EMCC Accredited Coach |
2moIncredible! Always so good to see new life, skills and characters come into the industry. Can't wait to see this progress!