A Douglas College student has been named student ambassador to the Canada Revenue Agency with a goal to encourage co-op experience.

Simran Kaur was selected for the position while working at the CRA during her own Co-operative Education placement. The second-year Computing Science and Information Systems student took a position with the CRA to develop her confidence, and problem-solving and organizational skills.

Co-operative Education (co-op) integrates academic studies with related work experience. After completing the first half of a diploma, degree or university transfer program, co-op students alternate semesters of classroom studies with semesters of paid, full-time employment.

“I wanted to explore the opportunities offered, and co-op is the gateway for students to enhance their employment opportunities,” Kaur said.

Now, the Indian-born international student will share her experience with other students to encourage them to take on the challenges and opportunities that come with a co-op placement.

Along with the position of student ambassador, Kaur will continue her work with the CRA part time until she graduates from the CSIS program. Her goal after graduation is to work as a data analyst for the CRA.

“The CRA has a wide range of opportunities available across the country. My co-op experience gave me an idea of what I would like to pursue and how to move in that direction,” Kaur said.

In her role as student ambassador, Kaur will promote the CRA positions available to students on campus and encourage them to get a head start in their career of choice with co-op.

“I’ll be providing information on the student hiring program, sharing my experience working in the public service, acting as a liaison between Douglas College and the CRA and increasing awareness about positions at the CRA,” Kaur said.

And there’s no one better for the role. Kaur’s experience at her placement has made her a believer in co-op. She credits Douglas College with helping her land two positions – one with the College’s Centre for Educational and Information Techonology and her current one with the CRA.

“Co-op has been a great resource, helping me with applications, resumes and interview tips, as well as assisting when I had questions,” Kaur said. “They have played a major role in my success.”