Navigating My Co-op Journey: Lessons from Michael Hatswell’s Seminar

My co-op experience didn’t follow the traditional path, but it was still valuable. Instead of securing a placement, I worked on a simulation project under Nicole Galucci and Wendy Greenwood. This gave me hands-on experience and helped me develop key skills.

Michael Hatswell’s seminar stood out to me because he shared practical job-seeking strategies and networking tips. As an Assistant Media Buyer/Planner at Essence Mediacom, he’s someone who has successfully navigated the job market, so his insights were reassuring and motivating.

Job-Seeking Strategies: What I Learned and How I’ll Use It

One of the biggest takeaways from Michael’s talk was how important it is to use LinkedIn strategically. I had a profile but wasn’t fully utilising it. Michael suggested following industry professionals, engaging with their content, and setting up job alerts. These simple steps can make a big difference.

Another key lesson was customising cover letters and resumes. I used to take a one-size-fits-all approach, but Michael stressed tailoring each application to match job descriptions. Moving forward, I plan to update my resume by incorporating keywords from job postings and highlighting relevant experiences.

Networking: Where I Stand and What I Can Improve

I feel confident networking within academic settings—talking to professors, working on group projects, and engaging in class discussions. However, Michael introduced me to the idea of coffee chats with industry professionals, which I hadn’t considered before. I always thought networking meant career fairs or LinkedIn messages, but informal, one-on-one conversations can be just as valuable.

Michael also emphasised that networking is about building relationships, not just asking for jobs. That changed my perspective. Instead of just seeking job leads, I now see networking as a learning opportunity. Moving forward, I plan to reach out to GBC alumni and industry professionals to gain career insights.

Is Performance Marketing for Me?

Michael’s discussion on performance marketing was interesting. He described it as a results-driven field focused on data and analytics. While I like the strategic side of marketing, I also enjoy creative work, so I’m still figuring out if performance marketing is the right fit for me.

I’m drawn to hybrid roles that mix analytics with creativity, like content marketing or brand strategy. This seminar has encouraged me to explore different roles in digital marketing to see what best aligns with my skills and interests.


Final Thoughts

Michael Hatswell’s seminar gave me a lot to think about regarding job searching, networking, and career planning. His advice on LinkedIn, resume customisation, and coffee chats has influenced my approach to career development.

Even though my co-op experience was unconventional, I gained valuable insights and skills. With a more strategic approach to networking and job applications, I feel better prepared to take the next steps in my career journey. I’m excited to see where this path leads.

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