The King’s University College: Preparing You for the Workplace

by Eden Chan, Coordinator of International Student Programs

Photo Credit: Laughing Dog Photography

One of the most frequently asked questions that I get as the Coordinator of International Student Programs at The King’s University College is, “how do I find work as an international student?” International students are governed by CIC regulations that permit them to work off-campus only after six months of full-time studies, but are allowed to work on campus in the mean time as long as they are registered as a full-time student. During this period, King’s offers numerous opportunities for students to work on campus. This is a great way prepare you for the workforce.

On Campus
With over 15 different types of jobs available on campus at King’s, students are able to gain valuable experience:

- Understanding the working culture in Canada
- Developing a language of proficiency
- Building up a personal professional network
- Preparing to work with different types of people

Dorcas Shittu, a student from Nigeria who has worked in both the Enrolment Services department and the Bookstore, says, “My job at King’s was my first time working in Canada, and it has carved a leeway for me to work outside the school environment. It built up my confidence, resume, and professionalism, which really help me when I look for a job after graduation.”

Internships
King’s also require students in Commerce, Computing Science and Environmental Studies to complete internships in their areas of studies as part of their degrees. Between their 3rd and 4th year, students learn about the recruitment process, how to look for a job, and how to apply their academic knowledge to the workplace.

Internships have proven to be beneficial for students as Program and Internship Coordinator Susan Martin notes, “Students undergo a transformation as they complete their internships! They are much more confident talking with prospective employers and start to develop a clear idea of what their future job should look like. It also builds up their network and allows the students to acquire a pool of references when they graduate.”

In order to aid in the daunting process of job searching, The King’s Commerce Association, a student run group, puts on an annual Career Fair to connect students with prospective employers. This year, the Career Fair brought in over 20 employers and proved to be very useful for King’s students.

At King’s, we strive to build you up for success as you enter the Canadian workforce. Come and experience it for yourself! For more information, contact Eden Chan at eden.chan@kingsu.ca.