*update*: Sandra Sourial currently works as a Human Resources Associate with Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)
Sandra is currently a Human Resources Consultant (Intern) at Ontario Public Service
Q: Briefly describe your current position and responsibilities, as well as the organization that you are with. What are the challenges and rewards of the position?
Consult with managers and directors and provide advice on HR issues. Work on pay administration. Challenge to address some of the issues that come up and rewarding to provide sound advice to our clients and keep them happy.
Q: What personal characteristics and skills are most important for someone to be successful in your job/field?
Excellent people skills, interpersonal, energetic, research skills
Q: List the key positions you have held since graduation, starting with the earliest/first, including position title, organization and duration of employment.
Organizational Development Intern, Kraft Canada Inc. (Summer 2008)
HR Consultant, Ontario Public Service (Sept 2008-present)
Q: If applicable, list any other ways you are involved in your profession or in your community (member of a professional association, involved as a leadership volunteer, etc).
Member of HRPA
Q: During your university career did any key experiences assist you in making your career choices? If yes, how so? (Internships? Extern Program? Volunteering? Student clubs? Summer job? Mentorship?)
Volunteering at the Career Centre and at the U of T HR department; Student Management Association
Q: How did you go about your job search upon graduating? (steps taken, resources used). What strategies were most successful for you in marketing your degree and experiences to potential employers - why do you think you were hired?
Went to career fairs, resume critiques, mock interviews
Q: If you had the chance to plan your studies and your career path again, what would you do differently (if anything)?
I would have taken more management courses such as negotiations.
Q: What have been the keys to your success? What advice would you give to students who wish to pursue a similar career path?
Always being prepared and looking to fill my experience gaps. I looked at the key skills required for HR and took on volunteer opportunities to obtain those skills so that I became marketable to employers.