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Maria Dray - Human Resources Co-op student
Learning and expanding horizons is a major focus at Shell, and I was able to take advantage of this in my projects, responsibilities, and training over the course of my work term.
My role as a HR Co-op student was to assist the Campus Recruitment team as well as Experienced Recruitment team in managing and improving Shell Canada’s online recruitment tool, Taleo. My work, however, was never limited to this area.
I also gained substantial experience in recruiting for Shell’s joint venture, Albian Sands Energy in Fort McMurray.
I was able to work with managers to develop postings, shortlist applications, interview potential candidates, and hire students and new grads for various areas that include engineering, geology, earth sciences, and business.
In addition to this, my supervisor let me know from the start that if there was any area that I had a strong interest in that I was to notify her so that she could introduce me to any employees or projects that I could learn from.
Needless to say, my work and life in Calgary was never boring. Everyday at work presented a new challenge that everyone on the team faced without hesitation.
This positive attitude was not limited to the HR team, as I saw it in action in various other areas across the company that I had the opportunity to interact with.
I also felt that I was never considered “just a student” and that my work was valued by my supervisor and other members of the team. This observation further helped me in my decision to consider Shell as an employer when I graduate from university.
For students that may hesitate about a move to Calgary, or one of Shell’s other sites, I can say that they are very accommodating in making the transition as smooth as possible. Moving across the country with no idea what Calgary may be like could have been a nerve-wrecking experience, but the recruiters and my supervisor were available before my move to answer any questions that I may have had. After arriving, orientation and student activities were planned in order to introduce students to each other and the company.
From my experience at Shell I can say that there is no doubt that they are a top employer. While traveling to career fairs throughout my work term, I had no hesitation in encouraging students to apply for positions with such an outstanding company.
If I could offer one piece of advice to any students that may be considering applying for a student or graduate position with Shell, it would be to make the most of your experience.
Shell presents so many opportunities to learn and grow that you would never find in a classroom. They are truly a company that you can be proud to work for.