Work & Volunteer Experience
Gain experience & build your professional skills
When talking about gaining experience for your resume, we’re not just referring to paid work experience, especially early on in your career journey. To build your experience and skills, you can take part in a wide variety of activities, including:
- Internships
- Co-op work terms
- Paid work (part-time, full-time, and contracts)
- Mentorship programs
- Case competitions
- Starting your own business
- Volunteering
- Team & club participation
- Group projects in the classroom
These experiences will help you gain transferrable skills, make connections, build your story for future job applications, and clarify your career goals.
Ways to get started
Self-guided toolkits designed for UBC Sauder students
| Work & Volunteer Experience ToolkitYour previous work and volunteer experiences are essential indicators to employers of your capabilities. This Toolkit explains how to gain experience strategically to align with the career path you want to take. It also highlights the 70% rule: You don’t need to meet 100% of the job requirements to apply! |
| Job Search ToolkitSearching for work, whether you’re looking for an internship, Co-op work term, part-time position or full-time role, takes time and planning. Read this toolkit to learn about effective job search strategies and how to use your time best. |
 | Career Goals ToolkitSetting specific goals about gaining work experience will help you take your next steps forward. This toolkit will give you strategies to tackle your big goals by breaking them down into small steps. |
Access additional Career Toolkits on other career-related topics like resumes, cover letters, and interviews on COOL.
CWL login is required to access all Toolkits.
Where to find opportunities
COOL (Career Options On-Line): UBC Sauder’s exclusive all-in-one career platform where you can find internships, Co-op work terms, and full-time job postings from companies actively recruiting UBC Sauder students.
(CWL login required)
How to apply for jobs & set up job alerts on COOL
In this video, we will walk you through the process of applying for jobs and setting up personalized job alerts on the COOL (Career Options On-Line) career platform.
CareersOnline: Browse this job and volunteer board for all UBC students. Find Work Learn positions along with other on and off-campus opportunities.
(CWL login required)
Other things you can do
Connect with:
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Apply for:
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Go international with:
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Get involved with your community through:
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Have questions?
Stop by Drop-in to chat with the BCC’s team of Career Peer Advisors.
When: Weekdays, during the winter term, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm (Monday-Thursday) and 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm (Friday)
Where: CPA Hall, in front of the BCC
Or, book a career coaching & advising appointment on COOL for personalized 1:1 support.
(CWL login required)
Navigate Your Career Journey
Trying to figure out what type of work interests you? Or maybe you’re wondering what resources can help you achieve your goals? No matter where you are in your unique career journey, you can use our career development model to help navigate your personal and professional goals at UBC Sauder and beyond.