Co-op award winner transforms from aspiration to inspiration
After an eight-month work term at British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC), Bachelor of Computing Science student Bhavika Jain nominated herself for the 2024 Co-op Student of the Year award (CSotY) partly because she was inspired by Ahana Ahluwalia, the 2023 winner. “After seeing that announcement last year, I read through her website interview, and it resonated with me. I even saved that Instagram post because I was in the middle of my co-op work terms and could relate to much of what she said.”
Receiving this award a year later is a testament to her personal growth, self-advocacy efforts and willingness to share her experiences and information. “In the first weeks of my co-op, I was intimidated by everything I was doing or trying to do. However, as time passed, I learned more from my colleagues and worked on projects that built my confidence. I recognized a meaningful change in my performance and outlook on life.”
As the CSotY application deadline approached in her final semester, Jain was consumed by midterms and assignments. While swamped with coursework, her connection with last year’s winner sparked her intuitive sense that she was meant to apply. “I didn’t want to miss the opportunity and regret it later. It’s always better that you take a chance.”
(from left) David Sharpe, Amandeep Tuli and Bhavika Jain
Believing in yourself is one of Jain’s keys to success. That said, Jain would be the first to remind her peers to grant themselves grace throughout the learning and growing process. Whether it’s classroom or experiential learning, it’s important to be attentive, ask questions, be patient and practice self-forgiveness. Mistake-making is part of being human and opens doors to learning. You can avoid making preventable mistakes, but ruminating over perceived failure can really impact future success.”
She noted that debriefing with her manager, Mark Flegel, product owner in Digital Employee Workspace, was always a relief. “He often reminded us that no question is a bad idea, and as a co-op, you’re there to learn. Those positive responses and affirmations greatly reflect the inclusive culture at BCLC.”
Leading with grace
“Bhavika was an invaluable asset to the BCLC team,” Flegel said. “She played a pivotal role, and her contributions extended beyond task automation. Bhavika was an outstanding co-op team player who consistently demonstrated strong leadership and collaboration skills. Chairing several meetings where she effectively facilitates discussions, asks great questions, and ensures all voices are heard.”
(from left) Krystal Kehoe, Bhavika Jain, Paola Flores
Leanne Mihalicz, Co-operative Education Co-ordinator in Computing Science, Physics and Mathematics, also points to Jain’s leadership skills as one of her strongest assets. “Bhavika leads with such grace, consistently contributing to her team through quality work, thoughtful collaborations, strong communication and a commitment to inclusion. She embraced her experiences as a student and became involved in various co-curricular activities where she could make a real impact.”
Jain’s community-building skills are rooted in her experiences as an international student and peer leader. Arriving from India in 2021, Jain reflects on the culture shock of adapting to a new environment.
“Back in India, I generally experienced a singular culture, so being an intercultural ambassador was a very life-changing experience. When I came to Canada, I was impressed by the diversity of cultures, particularly Indigenous history and culture. Working with Dr. Amie McLean, Dr. Kyra Garson, and the Intercultural Learning team provided learning opportunities I will never forget. Peer mentorship is very dear to my heart.”
Promoting self-empowerment
Whether applying for co-op, participating in a club, volunteering in the community, mentoring students or joining a board, Jain recommends creating your own networking pathways. It’s not just about networking for professional purposes; she encourages students to use those relationship-building skills to develop a diverse support system in social situations.
Knowing how to navigate campus, connect to the Wi-Fi and use Moodle are critical to a successful student experience. Part of being a student mentor is helping others find their way through self-empowerment. “I got lost on my first day of class and was running late – which is a terrible feeling – so when I became an orientation and transitions mentor, I was excited to provide practical support and guidance. Seeing someone thriving and taking charge of their lives is very rewarding, as is paying forward the wisdom I’ve gained.”
Graduating is one word to encompass 10,000 wins, losses, challenges and successes. It’s important to count all those moments that culminated in this achievement. Every time you step outside your comfort zone, leave the house, stay on campus after class to attend an info session, make friends or engage in opportunities, it opens doors. The more you connect to a network, the more likely you’ll receive that support, encouragement, mentorship and references.
Having wrapped classes in December 2024, Jain is convocating this June. She is processing that upcoming milestone.
“Now that classes are over, I’m experiencing mixed emotions. It’s a bittersweet time. As a social person, I like being a student. I love meeting people, connecting with my friends, as well as being a mentor and board member. I’ve been a student for 22 years; I’m learning how to rest,” she says with a laugh.
Hoping to inspire
As she catches her breath between her academic past and professional future, she reflects on her life purpose.
“Providing mentorship will be a priority, and in the meantime, I hope another student will read this article and feel inspired by my story, just like I did with Ahana. Remember, everything is a learning opportunity. Never look back in regret, don’t stop trying, just keep going.”
The Co-op Student of the Year is an annual award that recognizes outstanding achievement in all aspects of the co-op student’s performance, including academic achievement, work term learning, job achievement/employer evaluation, personal statement, co-operative education and contribution to extra-curricular activities and the community. Learn more about Career and Experiential Learning at tru.ca/cel.