Co-op experiences provide students with practical exposure to real work environments and potential career paths, while bridging the gap between academic and professional growth. However, the depth of that real world experience will always depend on the company offering the position. Organizations that are truly committed to employee growth offer programs that positively impact the students they bring on board. As a project management co-op student with Colliers Project Leaders, I’ve gained personal and professional development experience that will help me further my career. How can I be so sure? Let me walk you through the biggest highlights of my experience thus far.
Connecting theory with practice
One of the most exciting parts of the co-op experience is the opportunity to connect what you have learned in the classroom with the real world. I hold a Graduate Certificate in Project Management from Sheridan College, which provided me with an understanding of the 10 Project Management Knowledge Areas – scope, cost, schedule, quality, risk, procurement, shareholders, communication, integration and resources management. As a project management co-op student, these 10 areas are fundamental to my role, and Colliers Project Leaders has given me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in all of them.
During the past few months, I have worked on a variety of healthcare projects. My tasks have included tracking project statuses and budgets to collaborating on client deliverables. When it comes to active projects, tracking triple constraint (scope, cost and schedule), change requests and potential risks are a large part of my role. As project managers or owner’s representatives, Colliers Project Leaders professionals often help owners procure consultants to support various projects. This work has allowed me to be a part of the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and Request for Proposals (RFP) development process, which is one of the most critical tasks we perform as the work can directly impact project success.
I’ve also had the opportunity to respond to RFPs, which has truly been an enriching experience. Responding to RFPs has given me the chance to get more familiar with the projects Colliers Project Leaders delivers, and build a firm understanding of the proposals process, addressing questions like the impact the project will have on the community, the client’s priorities and the innovative design solutions needed to achieve the client’s goals. These considerations are key to crafting a competitive proposal that aligns with the client’s strategy.
While it can be challenging to support multiple projects, my co-op experience offers a valuable peek into the life of a project manager. I’ve learned that success involves immersing yourself in each project, developing a clear understanding of the owner’s goals, regularly assessing a project’s status, effectively addressing questions, and managing shareholder expectations with precision. Colliers Project Leaders has established a system to ensure communications flow effortlessly between clients and team members, simplifying this complex process.
Belonging, collaboration and empowerment
From my first day, I felt like I was part of the company. I have had many warm, friendly and engaging conversations with my immediate team members and others across the company, including directors and vice presidents. The way people interact, and the support I’ve received from my managers and peers, has strengthened my sense of belonging, which is no surprise since building a sense of community is one of the company’s core values.
Collaboration is another standout aspect of this co-op experience. Colliers Project Leaders is committed to ensuring you have the training, knowledge and support to not only succeed – but excel – at your tasks. Whenever I have questions about a project, I always have someone in my corner, whether it’s my buddy Janella Lasam, my manager Angela Strazzeri, a project manager such as Angela Chau, Angela Picot and Rebecca Skolud, or a senior project manager such as Erin Nisbet and Umar Khan, to guide me through the assignment. It’s truly remarkable how willing everyone is to help, exemplifying the collaborative team culture that defines the company.
I’d have to say, my biggest takeaway from this experience is empowerment. My manager, Angela Strazzeri, has been an incredible source of inspiration throughout this journey. She continuously shows her support and confidence in my capabilities, encouraging me to take ownership of my work and push beyond my comfort zone. Her guidance gave me the confidence to present and lead my first business unit meeting. Even while working with different teams, I’ve felt empowered to develop different skills and take on new responsibilities. Acting as a Designated Project Manager on various projects also allowed me to embrace new challenges and sharpen my professional skills further.
Setting you up for success
Overall, my experience as a project management co-op student has been transformative. The way the team communicates at every step in their process showcases how deeply the company cares for their clients and staff. The training they provide ensures I have the knowledge to excel in my role. And consistent support from my team has given me the confidence to thrive – whether taking ownership of diverse tasks and project roles, leading team meetings, participating in events, or networking with other business units to gain a deeper understanding of the overall business and its services. These opportunities, among many others, have inspired me and continue to help me boost my professional and personal growth. 
My co-op experience has gone far beyond exploring a realistic work environment. I’ve gained valuable insights and developed skills that will undoubtedly support my future career. As Rowan Mills, Senior Vice President, shared with me in conversation, “The only limitation you should have at Colliers Project Leaders is your own ambition.” If you’re ready to embrace a transformative learning experience, this is the ideal place to start.
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