Final Reflections
What skills have you learned that you think you can use at other workplaces?
My co-op experience at Markham Stouffville Hospital has given me a large set of skills that I believe are highly transferable to various other workplaces. Throughout my co-op, I've improved my ability to collaborate effectively within a team. I've learned the importance of active listening, clear communication, and mutual respect when working alongside colleagues from different units and backgrounds. These skills in teamwork and interpersonal communication are universally valuable and applicable in any workplace setting where collaboration and cooperation among diverse teams are essential. Interacting with patients, families, and healthcare professionals has enhanced my oral communication skills significantly. Effectively conveying medical information in a clear, empathetic manner and actively listening to understand concerns are skills crucial not only in healthcare but also in any customer-facing or client-centered role. Healthcare settings often present many challenges that demand quick thinking and effective problem-solving skills. Assessing situations, identifying issues, and figuring out solutions have been essential parts of my co-op placement. These problem-solving abilities are transferable to any workplace where critical thinking, adaptability, and analytical skills are required to address challenges and find solutions.
What have you learned about yourself that you are most proud of?
During co-op, I've discovered a significant aspect about myself that I'm incredibly proud of; my empathy and my ability to offer genuine compassion, even in challenging situations. Working in a hospital setting allowed me to encounter individuals facing various hardships and vulnerabilities. It was during these moments that I realized the extent of my empathy and my natural instinct to provide support to those in need. Whether it was comforting a distressed patient, or listening to their concerns, I found great fulfillment in being a source of comfort. Moreover, I learned that my capacity for empathy isn't limited to just empathy alone but extends to action. I discovered a driven side to my compassion, where I actively sought ways to improve the well-being of those around me. Whether it was advocating for a patient's needs, going the extra mile to ensure their comfort, or assisting my co-workers during busy times, I found joy in making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Describe what you have learned about yourself as a future member of the workforce?
I discovered that I thrive in environments that demand a high level of productivity and efficiency. Juggling multiple tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time effectively are things I wish to have in my future career as those are things I didn’t really get to experience during my placement. The boredom would get so bad at times that I’d spend at least two hours of my day walking around the hospital. When it comes to contributions, I always feel like I can do more. That may be due to my natural instinct of always wanting to be busy and showing others that I am dedicated to my role. As I’ve mentioned before, there are times when I should speak up and times when I should relax. Interacting with patients and their families taught me the importance of exceptional customer service. I developed the ability to empathize with people and provide exceptional care. This experience heightened my sensitivity to customer needs and demonstrated the significance of delivering excellent service while maintaining professionalism and empathy.
In what areas would you like to have further improvement? Why?
​While my co-op experience significantly improved my communication skills, I aspire to enhance them further. Effective communication, both verbal and written, is crucial in any professional setting. I aim to focus on articulating ideas clearly and speaking up for myself. This will grow my ability to convey information clearly and persuasively, which can foster better teamwork and patient interactions. In this day and age, technology usage is very important. However, at my placement, the only technology I used was the phone. I would like to improve my skills with other devices such as computers, machinery, etc. Especially within the healthcare sector, there are always new systems, software, and tools being introduced. Strengthening my technical skills will ensure I remain up-to-date and allow me to contribute more in the future.
What life-long skills have you developed at your co-op placement?
During my co-op placement at Markham Stouffville Hospital, I've enhanced several lifelong skills that extend far beyond the healthcare environment. One of the most impactful skills I've developed is empathy and compassion. Interacting with patients and families emphasized the importance of understanding and connecting with others, a skill valued not just in healthcare, but in personal relationships and understanding different perspectives throughout life. Effective communication was another skill that improved during this experience. Learning to communicate clearly, actively listen, and adapt my communication style to different types of people is something I see as a lifelong strength. Problem solving, critical thinking, and the ability to collaborate effectively were also skills I refined during my placement. These lifelong skills acquired during my co-op have helped my personal and professional growth and will be beneficial in the future.
As a part of your co-op experience, is there anyone in your workplace that you look up to and admire? Why? What has that person taught you?
Someone I admire in my workplace is Varoon. Varoon gave me a lasting impression of my very first day, and I knew right away that we’d get along. He’s always so positive and cracking jokes even during the worst times. I admire that even when he’s dealing with personal struggles, he doesn’t convey them to the patients he communicates with. I also love his admiration for his two daughters as it shows his value of family and maintaining a good work-life balance.
How has your co-op experience assisted you with making future career choices and plans?
Working within a healthcare environment provided me with valuable insight into the realities of this field, confirming my passion for a career centered on healthcare. Firstly, my co-op experience allowed me to witness firsthand the impact of healthcare professionals on people's lives. It reinforced my desire to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others, solidifying my aspiration to pursue a career in healthcare. Also, the exposure to various departments and roles within the hospital broadened my understanding of the diverse career pathways available in the healthcare sector and not just the basic ones I’m aware of. It helped me identify areas that resonate with my skills, interests, and values, guiding me toward a specific career path. Interacting with healthcare professionals, understanding their roles, and observing their daily tasks provided me with insight into the skills and qualities necessary for success in the field. This firsthand exposure helped me assess my strengths and areas needing further development.