Co-op experience confirms Janmie Gunawardena’s intentions

The 2015 Canadian federal election sparked Janmie Gunawardena’s interest in politics, so it was natural for her to focus on political science when she came to SFU. Gunawardena is also interested in law, so that’s what attracted her to SFU’s Co-operative Education program where she could test out her dual interests in a practical work environment.

Gunawardena has completed all three of her co-op work terms with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and says it’s helped her decide to work for the government once she’s finished her degree.  

Logging that much time with one organization gave Gunawardena plenty of chances to work with managers across the country. She sees those connections as the most rewarding aspect of her co-op experience.

“The co-op program has given me many professional opportunities,” Gunawardena says. “I wouldn’t have the same job prospects without it.”

She says her experiences with the CBSA have prepared her for working full time, and that she’s learned to strike a balance between personal and professional life. She recommends all co-op students develop this skill.

“Ensure that you have a routine in your life to maintain balance,” Gunawardena says. “It’s easy to fall into the habit of working every day and not doing anything else. However, it is important to maintain other hobbies, spend time with family and friends, and exercise.”

Gunawardena also advises her fellow co-op students not to be afraid to take a class or two during their work term—if they have well-tuned time management skills. And as far as using the skills she’s built during her time studying at SFU, the most important ones for her co-op positions have been those typical of students in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS).

“My critical thinking skills come in handy when I have to complete several tasks and need to prioritize,” she says. “I use my research and writing skills regularly, as most of my day-to-day work is collecting data from government databases and open-source research and consolidating it into a well-structured brief. The most challenging aspect is adapting my writing skills to fit the government’s style.”

Now in her fourth year at SFU, Gunawardena’s interest in political communications and journalism has driven her to pursue an extended minor in communication: “I found that there was a lot of crossover in the lessons of critical theory and analysis across my political science and communication classes.”  

“The co-op program was a vital aspect of my undergraduate experience,” Gunawardena says. “It is by far the best method of getting introduced to the public service sector. I recommend it to all students, especially FASS students.”