Employers want you to have experience, but how do you get it? It’s time to be strategic! Learn about the types of experiences that will cultivate the skills you need to succeed in the career(s) you are exploring.
Co-curricular experience
Co-curriculars are U of T-based activities including clubs, societies and student unions. By participating, you can develop career-related skills, expand your network, get great references – and help build the university community.
Where to look: Co-curricular Record (CCR) and Student Organization Portal.
Work on campus
Working on campus throughout the school year, or over the summer, can be a great way to explore different careers, build skills that you enjoy using, make some extra money and gain experience that will impress employers!
Where to look: Career & Co-curricular Learning Network for part-time and Work Study opportunities. UTemp for full- and part-time temporary positions. University of Toronto Careers for full-time U of T staff positions.
Mentorship
Mentorship programs match students with peer or alumni mentors. Through peer, or student-to-student mentorship, mentees develop academic skills and learn tips on how to adjust to university life. Alumni mentors help mentees explore potential careers. Peer and alumni mentors hone communication and listening skills. Peer mentor positions may be paid or unpaid.
Where to look: Mentorship database.
Community-engaged learning experience
Community-engaged learning courses are integrated into many programs across U of T. Courses are designed by faculty and staff in collaboration with community partners. Unlike work placements or volunteer positions, these courses place an equal focus on students’ educational needs and the needs of the community.
Where to look: U of T community-engaged learning courses.
Leadership programs
Leadership programs provide you with an opportunity to lead a campus group, union or club and develop leadership skills.
Where to look: Clubs and Leadership Development.
Research experience
Whether you are pursuing a career in academia, government or industry, a background in research can be an asset. As an undergraduate student, there are a number of ways to build this experience – working on campus, volunteering, or even completing independent projects.
Where to look: Undergraduate Research Hub
Volunteering
Volunteering for a community organization is a great way to gain career-related experience. It is unpaid, but it gives you an opportunity to engage with your community, learn about career opportunities and network.
Where to look: Career & Co-curricular Learning Network, Volunteer Toronto or 211.
Work-integrated learning
Work-integrated learning gives you an opportunity to combine your in-class learning with “real world” experience. These opportunities include internships, practicums and co-ops.
Where to look: Career & Co-curricular Learning Network.
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Associated Programs
Identities @ Work
Discuss, unpack, challenge and reflect on questions about work and identities.
Learn more about Identities @ WorkDream Job Academy
Explore your passions, interests, and values to identify potential careers through arts-based career exploration.
Learn more about Dream Job AcademyIn The Field
Learn about different careers in an industry by visiting an organization’s workplace.
Learn more about In The FieldJob Shadowing Program
Through a short-term placement, you can connect with diverse individuals, explore potential career paths, deepen understanding of your interests, values, and skills, and gain first-hand insight into a day in the life of a role.
Learn more about Job Shadowing Program -
Associated Services
U of T Hub on Ten Thousand Coffees
Alumni volunteers share career advice to help students and younger alumni succeed in their careers. Learn more about U of T Hub on Ten Thousand CoffeesCareer advising appointments
Book a one-on-one career advising appointment with a career educator or peer advisor if you are exploring your options, looking for work or considering graduate school. Learn more about Career advising appointmentsCareer fairs
Career fairs gather many employers in one space so that you can meet and speak with recruiters, hiring managers and employees from Canada's top employers and global organizations. Learn more about Career fairsIndustry Spotlights
Industry Spotlights invite employer representatives working in industry specific careers to participate in a panel discussion and speed networking activity where they meet with students and recent graduates. Learn more about Industry Spotlights