Corporate Communications Professional

How would you describe the current stage or most recent stage of your career as an Corporate Communications Professional?

As a Corporate Communications Associate at TD, I craft and release a variety of communications for Wealth Management including email announcements, social media posts, and presentations. In addition to assisting with strategizing and creating events within the department, such as senior leadership conferences, regional roadshows, and quarterly town halls. Within this role, I enjoy using my creative writing skills and collaborating with many teams across the organization.

What was your first ‘real’ job after graduating?

During my third year at McMaster University, I was a Marketing Intern at RBC for the summer term. Upon graduation, I was offered a full-time role at RBC within their Graduate Rotational Program, which was a great opportunity to work in multiple teams across the organization and develop new skillsets. I learned I enjoyed working on new projects, collaborating with others, and using creativeness in all opportunities.

How did your ideas about career options evolve from the time you entered first year university to your final year and beyond (and what influenced those ideas)?

In my first year, I had no idea what major to choose but chose Labour Studies as an elective and ended up enjoying the class topics and tutorials. Within my time at McMaster University, I networked with other Labour Studies students and past alumni’s to further learn about career opportunities.

What advice would you give to the next generation of current students about how to make the most of their time in university?

In Social Sciences, students have the opportunity to explore and try a variety of different classes – use this opportunity as a chance to test out as many different courses as possible.

As you reached graduation, did you pursue any post-graduation recruitment programs, associations, internship opportunities, certificates, or similar experiences to help establish your career? If so, how do you reflect on the experience(s)?

After graduation at McMaster University, I completed my post-graduate certificate at Sheridan College for Human Resources Management and joined the Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA) in hopes to pursue my Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation.

What was the sequence of job types for you after completing your undergraduate degree? For example, did you take survival jobs, or full-time jobs on a short-term contract? Did you immediately start an ongoing full-time position? Did you participate in gig work, consulting work, or entrepreneurship? Or was your first step further education?

Upon completing my undergraduate degree at McMaster University, I was a Youth Engager at the City of Hamilton for the summer, to promote job opportunities, financial assistance, and food programming to youth within Hamilton, Ontario and put forward new youth strategizes to council to further enhance City of Hamilton programs. After the summer term at the City of Hamilton ended, I joined my full-time role at RBC within the Graduate Rotational Program.

Did you get involved in any on-campus clubs, associations, or leadership roles? If so, how do you reflect on that experience?

At McMaster University, I was involved in multiple student-run clubs at an executive level, including Labour Studies Student Association (LSSA), Free the Children, MEDLIFE McMaster, Girls Education Initiative (GEI) and UNLOAD. This was a great opportunity to learn how to collaborate with others and strategize new ways to create memorable opportunities for others (e.g. events, volunteering).

What’s the most valuable or impactful piece of career advice you’ve received that you’d like to pass on?

The most valuable piece of career advice I have received is to take every opportunity that is presented. Whether that is reaching out to others or taking on a new project – you never know what you can learn and what the opportunity can lead to.

Which degree(s) did you complete during your education, either at McMaster, or at another institution? Please add any degree program details you think are relevant to understand your academic path (e.g. specializations, minors, post-graduate certificates, etc.)

• BA (Hons.) Labour Studies with a minor in Geography and Environmental Studies – McMaster University
• Affiliated Certificate in Business Studies – McMaster University/Mohawk College

Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP)

What have you found most beneficial about the specific degree program you completed at McMaster?

My degree in social psychology focused on studying the relationship between individuals and society. It helped me identify how people behave in varying social settings. Not only does this benefit me in navigating my personal relationships it can be applied to work and professional settings too. Given that relationships permeate in any situation, I found my degree applicable to all aspects of my life.

In your opinion, what is the value of a Social Sciences degree?

A social sciences degree in my opinion really educates recipients on how to navigate the human experience in an increasingly diverse and globalized world. By focusing on the intricacies of the social/lived experience, a social sciences graduate is better equipped to be socially aware and understand how our differences can unite us.

What advice would you give to a current Social Sciences student who is exploring career options?

For social sciences students who are currently exploring career options, I would highly recommend pursuing experiential opportunities to enhance their profile through real-work experiences! A good start would be enrollment in the SOCSCI 2EL0 career course; while also exploring internships, volunteering or other hands-on opportunities. I also recommend connecting with past alumni for career advice!

How did completing the SOCSCI 2EL0 career course shape your career planning or your post-graduation journey?

By completing the SOCSCI 2EL0 career course, it helped me better understand how to create my own value proposition and market my skills to future employers. I was able to learn industry trends for career planning that I still practice today!

Senior User Experience (UX) Designer

How would you describe the current stage or most recent stage of your career as a Senior User Experience (UX) Designer?

I am currently a Senior UX Designer at lululemon, where I focus on creating seamless, user-centered digital experiences. UX design is about understanding user needs, behaviors, and motivations to design products—whether a website, app, or software—that are functional, intuitive, and even delightful to use. A strong user experience feels effortless and nearly invisible, while a poor one can quickly become frustrating or impossible to navigate.

Day to day, my work shifts depending on the stage of the design process. This can include everything from conducting user research interviews, analyzing competitors, and reviewing data to identify opportunities, to mapping user flows, brainstorming and prototyping design solutions, testing with users, and collaborating with business and technology partners to bring ideas to life. I’m passionate about designing solutions that empower users through creativity, collaboration, and a people-first mindset. My curiosity drives me to constantly analyze the “why” behind experiences and seek out ways to improve them.

With a background in Anthropology, I bring a unique perspective to my design work, having developed strong critical thinking and research skills, as well as the ability to view human behavior through multiple lenses.

What was your first ‘real’ job after graduating?

After graduating, I worked as a technical recruiter for an IT staffing company, hiring for a wide range of roles including software engineers, quality assurance analysts, and project managers. In this role, I gained insight into how tech teams operate, learned to gather role requirements, identify qualified candidates, and conduct interviews that uncovered key information. I also developed experience interacting with leaders at all levels of an organization. While not directly related to UX design, this experience built a strong foundation in communication, understanding technical requirements, collaborating with highly technical professionals, and gathering input from leadership. Most importantly, it fostered my curiosity, sharpened my collaboration skills, and taught me how to ask the right questions.

Which degree(s) did you complete during your education, either at McMaster, or at another institution? Please add any degree program details you think are relevant to understand your academic path (e.g. specializations, minors, post-graduate certificates, etc.)

• BA Anthropology – McMaster University
• Marketing Diploma – Georgian College
• Interactive Media Management (IMM) Graduate Program – Centennial College

Founder & Aging Services Entrepreneur

How would you describe the current stage or most recent stage of your career as a Founder & Aging Services Entrepreneur?

Golden Age Management is a business dedicated to supporting older adults and their families as they navigate aging, life transitions, and maintaining independence in the community. At this stage of my career, I am focused on growing the business by working directly with clients, developing personalized support plans, creating educational programs and resources, building partnerships with community organizations, and raising awareness about the importance of aging with dignity, purpose, and support. My work also includes helping individuals and families navigate care options, access community resources, prepare for moves to retirement residences or long-term care, support downsizing and organization, and create opportunities for wellness, engagement, and independence.

My journey to entrepreneurship began during high school through a co-operative education placement in a retirement residence, which sparked my passion for working with older adults. I went on to complete a diploma in Social Service Work while gaining experience in long-term care and the non-profit sector. During the pandemic, I continued my education part-time by earning a Bachelor of Arts in Health, Aging & Society at McMaster University alongside a Certificate in Business Studies through Mohawk College. This unique combination of education strengthened my understanding of aging while giving me the confidence and skills to pursue entrepreneurship.

In 2023, with the support of the Brantford Business Resource Centre, I founded Golden Age Management. Through mentorship, guidance, and valuable community connections, I transformed an idea into a growing business that provides personalized, holistic support for older adults and their families.

This stage of my career is especially exciting because it allows me to combine my background in social services, aging, wellness, and business while continuing to expand the impact of Golden Age Management. I am passionate about creating innovative, person-centred services that help older adults age with dignity, purpose, and connection while supporting families through every stage of the aging journey.

What was your first ‘real’ job after graduating?

My transition after graduating was a little different from a traditional experience because I had already been building my career in the aging sector and developing Golden Age Management while completing my degree. Before graduating, I worked part-time with the Alzheimer Society while completing my B.A. at McMaster. After graduating in 2024, I transitioned into a full-time role with the Alzheimer Society while continuing to grow Golden Age Management on the side. Alongside my work in aging services and entrepreneurship, I have also pursued my passion for wellness as a yoga and fitness instructor. Having the opportunity to work across different areas of health, aging, and community wellness has allowed me to bring together different perspectives and skills that continue to shape my approach today. Balancing a full-time role, growing a business, and building my wellness practice has reinforced the importance of creativity, adaptability, and following a career path that aligns with my values.

What’s the most valuable or impactful piece of career advice you’ve received that you’d like to pass on?

The most valuable career advice I would share is to stay open to unexpected opportunities and not feel pressured to have your entire path figured out right away. When I began my education, I never imagined I would become an entrepreneur. My career evolved through the experiences I gained, the relationships I built, and the willingness to take initiative when opportunities presented themselves. Some of the most meaningful parts of my journey came from saying yes, trying new things, and being open to where my interests and skills could take me. I would encourage new graduates to focus on building relationships, gaining experience, and staying curious. Your first job does not have to define your entire career, but rather it is an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover what truly aligns with your values and passions.

Which degree(s) did you complete during your education, either at McMaster, or at another institution? Please add any degree program details you think are relevant to understand your academic path (e.g. specializations, minors, post-graduate certificates, etc.)

• BA Health, Aging & Society – McMaster University
• Affiliated Certificate in Business Studies – McMaster University/Mohawk College
• Diploma, Social Service Work (Gerontology) – Sheridan College

Child & Youth Worker

How would you describe the current stage or most recent stage of your career as a Child and Youth Worker?

I work at various hospitals throughout the GTA offering support to children and families within the Mental Health Inpatient and Outpatient Units. I provide crisis assessments for young people presenting with mental health challenges in the emergency department (i.e., suicidal ideation, situational crisis, mood disorders.) I also provide support to Day Treatment Programs within the hospital for those youth who are school avoidant due to anxiety or behavioral challenges. In those programs, we provide academic support while working with them on social aspects and therapeutic interventions for transition back into the community. On the inpatient units, young people are admitted for safety and stabilization. The length of stay is dependent on the young person’s individual’s treatment; we provide individual and group therapy with children and youth experiencing high-risk mental health and addiction and facilitate age-appropriate programming on Life Skills through a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy framework.

What was your first ‘real’ job after graduating?

After graduating, I went to George Brown College for the Child and Youth Care program. I completed my practicum in a live-in treatment home for adolescent girls, where I experienced professional and personal growth. That special place taught me the deep value of trauma-informed care and strength-based approaches when supporting young people. My approach focused on promoting self-love, resiliency and most importantly, what healthy adult relationships look like. When COVID-19 hit I was working full time when we went into lockdown. I subsequently moved out of my home and into the facility to prevent client treatment goals from being disrupted. I completed my second practicum at a hospital inpatient unit where I was fortunate to be hired as a casual position on the unit and continue to work there today!

After leaving my position at the live-in treatment home, I worked as a case manager for transitional aged youth (16-24).  These individuals moved into our shelter program for a short stay by accessing Central Intake. Other individuals completed a referral and interview process to be accepted into our two-year transitional housing program. These youth were facing a combination of family conflict, systemic failures and socioeconomic factors. Working with these youth led me on a journey to deeply explore my identity, the privilege I hold, the oppression I face and how I can best hold space for others therapeutically. Case management allowed me to guide these young people to realize their own skills and abilities, navigate difficult systems and provide a space for them to be themselves. It also encouraged me to understand my intersectionality. As a member of the Anti-Black Racism committee, I was able to provide culturally appropriate referrals, ensure equitable service and understand that treatment looks different depending on one’s unique social location.

As you reached graduation, did you pursue any post-graduation recruitment programs, associations, internship opportunities, certificates, or similar experiences to help establish your career? If so, how do you reflect on the experience(s)?

I am very grateful for my time at McMaster University. I took an experiential education course in my 4th year of my BA degree which led me to a community placement at a youth shelter downtown Hamilton. It was due to that opportunity that I found my career path. I began getting curious about the children’s mental health field and inquired into the positions of my colleagues. They encouraged me to apply for the Fast Track Child and Youth Care program at George Brown College. That fast-paced learning environment and opportunity for placement allowed me to establish my career at a quick pace.

What was the sequence of job types for you after completing your undergraduate degree? For example, did you take survival jobs, or full-time jobs on a short-term contract? Did you immediately start an ongoing full-time position? Did you participate in gig work, consulting work, or entrepreneurship? Or was your first step further education?

After graduation from McMaster University and George Brown College, I worked part time at the live in treatment home and casual position at the hospital. I moved into a full-time role once there was a vacancy in the group home. After the live-in treatment home ended, I moved into a full-time position as Case Manager at a Youth Shelter and Transitional Housing Program in Scarborough while maintaining a casual position at the hospital. Currently, I work casual at Michael Garron Hospital and Humber River Hospital and part time at the Hospital of Sick Children. I enjoy the casual work as I am challenged within my skill set in the different milieus and have more flexibility within my schedule. Working in the social services, it is quite common for part-time or casual openings due to the 24/7 care offered to the clientele.

Which degree(s) did you complete during your education, either at McMaster, or at another institution? Please add any degree program details you think are relevant to understand your academic path (e.g. specializations, minors, post-graduate certificates, etc.)

• BA (Hons.) Sociology with minor in Psychology – McMaster University
• Child and Youth Care (Accelerated) Post Graduate Diploma – George Brown College

Research & Asset Management Professional

What have you found most beneficial about the specific degree program you completed at McMaster?

The Economics program not only allowed me to think more analytically and critically but also allowed me to look at things from different perspectives. In addition to learning about economic theory and financial markets, I really enjoyed the Economics courses that touched on various societal topics in health & aging, environment, political science and social psychology because I feel that they gave me a deeper understanding of how these topics are all connected and how economic decisions can have chain reactions that are sometimes not considered.

Being able to learn in depth about the economy, has helped me greatly in my personal life and professional career as I learned valuable knowledge that is highly applicable to everyday life. I am constantly considering the impacts that market and government changes have and thinking of what that could mean for me and others in the short and long run.

In your opinion, what is the value of a Social Sciences degree?

A Social Sciences degree can help to develop and refine skills such as communication, research, thinking outside of the box and problem solving. I think that a Social Sciences degree allows for better understanding of society, the issues that are present and the people and groups that are and can be affected by those issues.

What are some of the roles you have held along your career journey so far that have helped lead to your current role?

Wealth Consulting Analyst, Investment Associate, and now, Research & Asset Management Analyst.

What advice would you give to a current Social Sciences student who is exploring career options?

Make sure to go out to any career fairs or any other career-related event and do not be afraid to network and reach out to professionals to learn more about their careers. LinkedIn is a great tool for networking and reaching out to professionals in potential careers you are interested in. Try doing an internship if you can to get a feel for what you like or do not like.

Philanthropy & Social Impact Executive

How would you describe the current stage or most recent stage of your career as a Philanthropy & Social Impact Executive?

As a Philanthropy & Social Impact Executive, I work with universities, nonprofits, and charitable organizations to secure funding, build partnerships, and create programs that make a meaningful difference in communities. In my most recent role, I have led fundraising strategies across a large university, collaborating with faculty, alumni, donors, and community partners to support student success, Indigenous initiatives, and equity-focused projects. On a typical day, I might meet with a prospective donor to explore their philanthropic interests, work with colleagues to design a new scholarship or program, or review strategies to strengthen long-term partnerships. My role blends relationship-building, strategic planning, and a deep commitment to equity and social change. I enjoy this work because it allows me to connect people’s generosity with causes that create lasting impact—whether that’s removing barriers to education, advancing reconciliation, or addressing social inequalities. Every project is an opportunity to bring resources and ideas together to make change happen.

What was your first ‘real’ job after graduating?

My first “real” job after graduating was as a Health Promoter in Chronic Disease Prevention. I was drawn to the role because it combined my interest in public health with my passion for community engagement. I worked with community organizations, schools, and health professionals to design and deliver programs that helped people make healthy lifestyle choices and reduce their risk of illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. This role taught me how to translate big-picture ideas into practical programs that could make a real difference in people’s lives. It also gave me experience in building partnerships, listening to community needs, and measuring impact—skills that I still use every day in my career as a philanthropy and social impact leader.

How did your ideas about career options evolve from the time you entered first year university to your final year and beyond (and what influenced those ideas)?

When I started first year, I didn’t know much about the range of careers in health, and I assumed my options would be limited because I wasn’t in a health-related degree program. That changed when I became the Outreach Lead at the Student Health Education Centre (SHEC) and a lead volunteer with the Campus Wellness Centre. Those roles opened my eyes to public health as a career path I hadn’t even considered before. Through planning events, creating health education campaigns, and working closely with peers and professionals, I saw how public health could improve lives on a broad scale. That experience inspired me to start my career in chronic disease prevention—and eventually led me into philanthropy and social impact work that still focuses on improving community well-being.

What advice would you give to the next generation of current students about how to make the most of their time in university?

Say yes to opportunities that take your learning beyond the classroom. For me, co-chairing the McMaster World Congress, participating in Model UN, and leading in the Campus Wellness Centre were just as valuable as my coursework. These experiences taught me leadership, teamwork, and how to adapt to new challenges—skills I still use every day. Get involved in student clubs, conferences, or volunteer roles that interest you, even if they’re outside your field of study. The people you meet and the perspectives you gain will help you grow in ways that textbooks can’t—and might lead you to career paths you hadn’t even imagined.

Did you get involved in any on-campus clubs, associations, or leadership roles? If so, how do you reflect on that experience?

Yes—I was very involved in student life, and those experiences shaped both my career and who I am today. I co-chaired the McMaster World Congress, participated in Model UN, served as Outreach Lead at the Student Health Education Centre (SHEC), and was a lead volunteer with the Campus Wellness Centre. These roles gave me hands-on experience in leadership, event planning, public speaking, and collaboration with people from diverse backgrounds. They also introduced me to mentors, deepened my friendships with people whose values and interests aligned with mine, and exposed me to career paths I had never considered. Looking back, those activities weren’t just “extras”—they were where I built the skills, networks, and confidence that have guided my career ever since.

Which degree(s) did you complete during your education, either at McMaster, or at another institution? Please add any degree program details you think are relevant to understand your academic path (e.g. specializations, minors, post-graduate certificates, etc.)

• BA Political Science – McMaster University
• BA (Hons.) Political Science – McMaster University
• Master of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership – Carleton University
• Masters Certificate, Integrated Marketing Communication for Behavioral Impact in Health & Social Development – New York University
• Communication Management Professional (CMP)
• Master Financial Advisor – Philanthropy (MFA-P™)
• Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)

Paralegal

How would you describe the current stage or most recent stage of your career as a Paralegal?

Since 2023 I have worked several jobs. Most recently, I worked as a legal assistant until I became a licensed Paralegal by the Law Society of Ontario. After being granted my licence, I opened my own Paralegal firm focused on Workers’ Compensation Board claims management across Canada. My typical day-to-day duties include filing relevant forms and documents with the Workers’ Compensation Board and associated Tribunals, communicating with clients, case managers and anyone related to the claims process, basic office duties such as invoicing and logging my hours, and much more. Choosing to become a Paralegal was the best decision I could have made. I am constantly expanding my knowledge through research and experience while providing a high-level of service to each of my clients with confidence.

What was your first ‘real’ job after graduating?

After graduating from McMaster University, I got a job working at a transportation company as the assistant to the Director of Labour. I loved this job. I was hands-on with contracts, negotiations and the safety operations of the labour staff. This job led me to exactly where I am today. After handling a few workers’ compensation claims and creating safety policies for the company, I knew this is what I wanted to do. Thanks to the connections from this job, I found myself working as the legal assistant to the company’s workers’ compensation claims management representative, and she taught me everything I know today.

Did you get involved in any on-campus clubs, associations, or leadership roles? If so, how do you reflect on that experience?

During my time at McMaster, I was very involved in on-campus activities and associations. I was a member of the Social Psychology Society every year, eventually becoming the President of the Society. I was a member of BluCru, the Social Sciences Welcome Week Team. I was a student ambassador for Social Sciences, more specifically, the Social Psychology program. Lastly, I was a mentor through both the Social Sciences Society and the Social Psychology Society. Being a part of the McMaster community is what made my time at McMaster extra special. I find myself always talking about these experiences and cherishing them. It doesn’t hurt that they also look great on a resume or CV. The best part about joining this community was that I met people with the same ambition and interests as me, some of which I call my best friends to this day.

What’s the most valuable or impactful piece of career advice you’ve received that you’d like to pass on?

The most valuable career advice I have ever received is to be flexible, especially in today’s job market. My original goal for after my undergraduate studies was to go to Law School. That didn’t happen. After receiving my rejections I started working at a transportation company. Through my work experience, I discovered what areas of law I really enjoyed and what areas I didn’t like as much. After determining that Labour Law and Health and Safety is what I wanted to focus on, it was much easier to determine a career path for me. Once I learned that Paralegals are licensed by the same governing body as Lawyers in Ontario, and I could do what I wanted to do as a Lawyer, but as a Paralegal instead, I had a new goal set. While this wasn’t my initial plan, I am so happy with how my career journey has progressed. I am able to better focus myself to one aspect of law and was able to begin working in this industry much faster.

Which degree(s) did you complete during your education, either at McMaster, or at another institution? Please add any degree program details you think are relevant to understand your academic path (e.g. specializations, minors, post-graduate certificates, etc.)

• BA (Hons.) Social Psychology – McMaster University
• Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Humber Polytechnic