My Career Boost story: All about my tech summer job
When I first came to TMU as an international student to pursue my Computer Science degree, I was eager to experience more than just academics. I wanted to get involved in school life, make new friends, and obtain real-world work experience that would be useful once I graduated. I learned about the Career Boost program at that point, and it really made my summer.
The Career Boost program provides paid employment to students on campus, within campus departments and faculties. Students work hand-in-hand with staff members in a variety of roles such as research, peer advising, administrative, technology-based, social media jobs, and more.
In all honesty, this summer initially looked like another couple months of binging Netflix, scrolling on TikTok and staying up till 3 am with friends which, to put it simply, had to change. I knew that working in the summer would give me some work experience for my resume, earn a bit of money (a lifesaver as an international student!), as well as give me a better sense of what I’d like to do after graduation. That's when I came across the Career Boost program, which changed the trajectory of my summer completely.
I stumbled upon a posting for a Website Redesign & AI integration Assistant with the Creative Communications Group (CCG) in the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science (FEAS). The role sounded like a blend of everything I enjoy, tech and creativity, so I applied right away.
The interview was casual but insightful. They asked me about my previous experience, some AI related questions, and how I’d handle different situations during the job. A week later, I got the offer email!
As a Website Redesign & AI Integration with the CCG, I assist with web updates, analytics monitoring, and the implementation of a chatbot for the faculty's platform, a major aspect of my job. Each day is a bit different; some days I’m in meetings brainstorming new ideas, and others I’m deep in the zone trying to analyse the website data. It's like a tech startup environment, just within a university. I now know how to use programs like Google Analytics, Adobe Experience Manager, Looker studio, the list goes on. I gained so many valuable skills in this role. This will help my career goal of becoming a Software Engineer.
I usually work remotely which is super convenient. My manager has been supportive and trusts me to manage my time, which means I can work from the library, my apartment, or even a park bench on a sunny day.
That said, I do love to come to campus on Tuesdays. There’s just something energizing about coming into the office, and having the most random conversations with the other Career Boost students to learn what they’re working on. On these days I usually just wake up, throw on something presentable, grab a coffee on the way, and head straight to the office. It’s a nice change of pace from remote work—getting out of the house and chatting face-to-face. Being in that TMU atmosphere just makes everything feel more exciting (even the emails).
As an international student, it can be tough to get your foot in the door. You’re coming from abroad, in a new country and are usually confused on what you really want to do. Career Boost levels the playing field. It offers real-world experience with teams that want you to feel at home. Plus, it helps you build a local network which is something that’s so valuable when you’re far from home.
This summer job didn’t just add a line to my resume, it gave me confidence. I now know how to collaborate in a professional setting, how to juggle tasks, and how to take ownership of a project. It’s made me more certain that I want to work in tech after I graduate.
If you’re an international student at TMU and you’re thinking of applying to Career Boost: do it. It’s not just about the paycheck, it’s about the growth, the people, and the sense of belonging you gain along the way.