Pathways & Perspectives
As a new student at George Brown College, I appreciate the number of resources available to me throughout my time here. They have provided me with the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, gain insight and knowledge, and continue to assist me in learning and growing professionally. I was delighted when a networking event was brought to one of my classes, the Strategic Relationship Marketing Seminar Series with Katidja Youssouf. This event gave me the chance to connect with three George Brown College alumni, who years ago were in the same spot as I am and who are now successful industry professionals. During the couple of hours they visited our class, I listened to them speak about their academic and career journeys, learning about each opportunity and challenge they encountered along the way.
The Alumni Panel included Kate Loskutova from Lexus National Marketing, Claudia Guillem, Marketing Manager at The Roundtable, and Arsheen Chopra, Ad Operations Specialist at Cluep. It was a pleasure meeting these three alumni, as each came from different backgrounds and shared unique journeys. Despite their differences, each shared similar accomplishments and challenges. One key message all three alumni could not stress enough is networking!
Throughout the session, the three alumni emphasized the importance of networking. They repeatedly stressed the need to put yourself out there, meet new people, and build meaningful connections. They encouraged us to reach out to professionals and listen to what valuable experience, knowledge, and insights they have to offer. Arsheen shared how networking on LinkedIn played a crucial role in getting her where she is today. Most importantly, we were reminded never to get discouraged; connecting with professionals will not always be successful, but determination is essential for putting yourself out there, growing your network, and advancing in your career. What I learned from the panel is to never let discouragement and disappointment destroy my confidence and motivation. I will encounter challenges along the way, but that is simply part of the journey.
The alumni shared some of the obstacles they faced throughout their professional careers. Claudia spoke about the difficulty adapting to the set expectations in Canadian culture, “If you’re on time, you’re late.”. She also shared valuable advice based on her experiences with job applications and interviews. She emphasized how the school provides excellent resources to help students with cover letters and resumes and interview preparation. She encouraged us to take advantage of the resources the school has to offer, as they helped her build confidence during interviews and highlight her strengths, skills that helped her land her job today.
The speakers also stressed the importance of mentorship and sponsorship; Kate, for example, shared how valuable it is to have someone who can advocate for you professionally. One thing that stood out to me was when she mentioned that, while she loves her current position and the company she works for, it took years and many obstacles to reach this point. Her journey is a reminder that challenges are unavoidable and are all an inevitable part of career growth.
Listening to this panel of alumni was truly inspiring. Their eagerness to share their academic and professional experience was a valuable experience for me. I am incredibly grateful that these three speakers took time out of their day to offer their knowledge and provide valuable insights that will assist me in my future endeavours.
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