By Wendy Szeto, Employment Engagement Coordinator - EL
COVID-19 has brought change and adjustment, and for many, a time for reflection. As students think deeply about their career interests – skills, interests, and values – they are identifying areas of occupational preference and fit. What we know as “job shadowing” has been helpful in connecting students with the opportunity to gain insight into different industries and roles, and making positive connections.
The Academic Advising & Career Centre continues to engage students in experiential activities and support their learning through career conversations and mini projects in the new Virtual Job Shadowing program for UTSC students. Like our in-person program, it is offered in 2 cycles, which take place during the fall and winter reading weeks at the university.
Dr. Ashleigh Molloy is the Founder & President of Transformation International Education. He participated as a host and saw the program as a joyful opportunity for him along with other alum and industry professionals to uplift UTSC students during a dreary February. In winter 2021, 69 students have benefited from career mentorship with hosts who have graciously dedicated 3-5 hours of their time to share their educational histories and their career journeys, and to provide feedback on a small activity designed for students to experience their work actively (since observing in a physical environment is not currently safe).
Dr. Ashleigh Molloy, a UTSC alum, was assigned 3 mentees. He felt strongly about conveying his commitment to the respect and care for his students because “Mentorship must be built on equity where mentor and mentee are seen as full partners in this exercise with each learning from the other.” One of the first things he did was learn more about his students and provide encouragement and feedback.
“Mentorship responsibilities involve providing guidance and direction for our next generation of students that I describe as ‘change agents’”, says Dr. Molloy. All 3 students were tasked with developing presentations that were shared with educators and the community, and all of them were inspired to continue to volunteer in their respective communities in youth leadership and social justice action.
Students who shadowed with Dr. Molloy said:
"Working with the Giving Education Meaning (GEM) team was truly an inspiring experience. Dr. Molloy is a highly educated, inspiring and humble individual that has tons of experience working with individuals both here at home and globally, aiming to make the world a more accepting place for all. It was very heart-warming to see young individuals with disabilities working hard, learning new aspect, and having great curiosity to learn. This experience definitely taught me that all individuals regardless of any differences deserve an opportunity to unlock their full potential."
“I got my first research experience, where I was able to do my own research and present it as well, through the Job Shadowing. This may be one of the most valuable experiences that I have acquired through attending a school event!”
Courtesy of Job Shadowing Student
Through the program, Dr. Molloy felt he was “the recipient of [the students’] abundant knowledge and skills combined with their individual uniqueness. It was both my privilege and pleasure being their mentor. I stand in awe of the leadership impact that they will create for our future.”
Courtesy of the GEM Program
Alumni and friends of the university who would like to learn more about Virtual Job Shadowing are invited to contact Wendy, the program coordinator.
Students who are interested in Virtual Job Shadowing are invited to view our social media and CLNx.utoronto.ca under Events & Workshops in Scarborough/AA&CC for the next mandatory orientation session. These are usually held in the first 3 weeks of the Fall and Winter semesters.
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