This year I am lucky enough to participate in Greenwood’s co-op student program, where I work at an interior design firm called “OE Design & Build LTD”. Every Monday afternoon and Thursday morning, my time is dedicated to expanding my knowledge of interior design and architecture. I learn about various programs such as SketchUp and rendering programs. In addition, I see firsthand all the different components that go into building and designing a house.
Some current highlights of my placement are that I get lots of hands-on experience. I have been lucky enough to visit different job sites and get a deep sense of the role of each employee and see their plans for the house come to life. During my time in the office, I am assigned tasks such as using different software programs to design different rooms. This can vary from living rooms to kitchens, and bedrooms. This allows me to get an idea of all the different aspects that go into this firm.
Co-op is a course that I would highly recommend to any student. It is a great way for students to gain a deep understanding of what they find interesting. In my case, I have always had an interest in interior design and architecture. Being able to take this opportunity has helped me gain an understanding of aspects that I am interested in, and I now have a greater understanding of whether I can see myself going into this business in the future. Throughout co-op, I have learned a variety of transferable schools and many skills that will help me in every aspect of my life.
We acknowledge with gratitude the Ancestral lands upon which our main campus is situated. These lands are the Ancestral territories of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Anishinabek and the Wendake. The shared responsibility of this land is honoured in the Dish with One Spoon Treaty and we strive to care for the land, the waters, and all creatures in the spirit of peace. We are responsible for respecting and supporting the enduring presence of all First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. When away from this campus we vow to be respectful to the land by protecting and honouring it. We will create relationships with the people and the land we may visit by understanding the territories we enter and the nations who inhabit them.