Neko Kasawski (biochemistry)
When Neko Kasawski (she/her) was looking for her first co-op experience, she found the perfect way to get her feet wet.
The biochemistry student spent the summer working as an assistant educator with the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney, BC.
This photo was taken in the "touch pool" area of the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, where Neko is holding a leather star.
Connecting with community
This role involved leading educational marine science activities to connect visitors of the centre with local marine life. I assisted with school field trips, public outreach events, and public programming.
Engaging with visitors about the many amazing species that call the centre (and the Salish Sea) home was the most rewarding aspect of this job. I had the opportunity to teach people about our ocean and share in their excitement.
The impact of co-op
This was my first co-op work term and I am very grateful for the opportunity I had to immerse myself in local marine biology and gain experience in science education.
Co-op is an excellent way to come out of your degree already having good technical work experience under your belt. It is also a very valuable way to try out different work environments and find out what paths might interest you most.