My Career Story

In 2023-24, My Career Story emerged as a series and a space where current students and recent graduates could connect to share career stories and reflect on the opportunities that exist to integrate their skills, identity, values and interests into their careers. U of T alumni shared stories that highlighted the realities of uncertainty, non-linear career paths and the value of hope in career exploration, while students considered how their academics, experiences, identity and interests could translate to career possibilities.

The “My Career Story: International Student Experience” event provided a dynamic platform for international students to engage with alumni who were international students themselves and successfully navigated the transition from academic life to professional careers in Canada. Alumni stories underscored the value of aligning one’s skills, values and interests with their career, and demonstrated how diverse backgrounds influence and enrich professional experiences.

Reflections from the event emphasized the importance of networking and mentorship in facilitating successful career transitions, as well as understanding the complexities of career planning and identity navigation within the Canadian job market. Alumni shared their career stories, focusing on integrating personal identity with professional aspirations.

Through reflections during the event, one participant shared

“It was really valuable to listen to this pure gold real information from the wonderful alumni, I am just really grateful to be here today …I learned that your present does not necessarily define your future, so just keep at it, and whatever is there for you, you will get there eventually”. One of the alumni storytellers shared, “I had an amazing time meeting all the students, alumni, and you… this event was brimming with infectious energy and genuine enthusiasm!”

At the core of this new offering was storytelling and narrative theory, helping to foster students’ connection to community and sense of belonging.