International student lands dream job

Yizhou Ji’s world brightened when his co-op experience paved the way to his dream job.

His journey began when he relocated from China to Canada where he was enrolled in the Actuarial and Financial Mathematics co-op program at McMaster University. Yizhou completed his first two work terms as a Co-op Pension Analyst at Telus Health. Though the role was not strictly actuarial, he says the experience helped him to gain a competitive advantage which eventually led him to a great opportunity at Canada Life for his third and fourth co-op terms.

Yizhou filled the position of Actuarial Student during his work terms at Canada Life where he gained practical industry experience that helped him to understand the field of AFM in depth. Yizhou’s hard work led to him receiving a full-time offer as an Actuarial Analyst.

But Yizhou didn’t reach the top alone. Along the way, he found mentors and friends who guided him through the ups and downs. His mentor offered wisdom and encouragement that fueled his journey. Inspired by their support, Yizhou paid it forward by becoming a mentor.

Yizhou became part of the Co-op Ambassador program and the Mentorship program. He understood the struggles that lower-year students face, and he wanted to help them navigate their career paths by sharing his own experience. These two programs were a perfect way for Yizhou to support the development of students.

Initially, Yizhou wasn’t sure if his advice would be helpful, but McMaster’s welcoming atmosphere gave Yizhou the confidence to speak up and share his ideas. “My favourite part about moving here is the people. They are so patient and inclusive.”

“One of my favourite experiences is when I brought one of my mentees to a job fair. When we first got there, I noticed that they were nervous to speak to employers. I showed them an example of how to start the conversation and they became so much more confident. I’ve never been so proud to see that my help made a difference,” said Yizhou.

Yizhou regularly met with Alex Selkirk and Dan Manns, Career Development and Relationship Managers at Science Career and Co-operative Education. Being an international student, Yizhou was seeking support in navigating the Canadian job market. Alex and Dan supported Yizhou with everything from job searching and career planning to resume reviews. Yizhou says that meeting with SCCE boosted his confidence, especially considering English is not his first language.

Looking back on his journey, Yizhou is grateful for the people who supported him along the way. With courage and perseverance, anyone can turn their dreams into reality.