Indigenous career resources for students
Career Services is invested in supporting the educational and career aspirations of Indigenous students at UCalgary. It's our hope that we can help address the gaps in Indigenous employment and answer the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 2015 Calls to Action by providing Indigenous students with meaningful and engaging opportunities for professional development and connections with employers who are committed to their success.
We provide events, workshops and one-on-one support specifically catered to their needs and with consideration to Indigenous Ways of Being, Connecting, Doing and Knowing, as outlined in UCalgary's Indigenous strategy.
One-on-one support with a career advisor
- Assistance with resumes, cover letter, interviews, LinkedIn & job search
- Advice on how your degree can transition into a career
- Direct connections with select employers
Indigenous Student Career Day
Connect with a large variety of employers that are passionate about recruiting Indigenous talent and connecting with the community. Students also have the opportunity to meet and network with their fellow Indigenous peers.
TBA
Indigenous Lunch and Learns
Indigenous Lunch and Learns are a great way to meet and connect one-on-one with an organization and learn about current and future opportunities, get insight into their hiring process and receive useful career advice from company representatives.
We host multiple sessions in the fall and winter terms, with employers from a diverse range of industries and sectors. Past employers include Alberta Health Services, Stantec, the Government of Canada and Suncor.
Careers in Indigenous Education
Interested in working in education within Indigenous communities? This field offers unique experience and opportunities to teach while being able to incorporate Indigenous methodology, pedagogy and cultural influences.
Panellists from several school boards will share information about what it's like to work in Indigenous Education (K–12) and how you can get started.
Workshops
Indigenous Career-Specific Workshops
Offered throughout the year. Workshops information will be shared on the Career Services and Writing Symbols Lodge webpage.
Resumes, Cover Letters and Interviews
This workshop covers how to write a resume and cover letter, how to skillfully answer common interview questions and a discussion around self-identifying during the job search.
Networking and Canadian business culture
First impressions really do mean everything when it comes to networking! Learn how you can make a positive and lasting first impression, how to ask curious questions and understand Canadian workplace norms.
Career and academic success in Indigenous communities
Facilitated discussion for undergraduate and graduate students on being successful in academia, their careers and within their communities.
LinkedIn Lab
During the session, you’ll learn how to create a LinkedIn account, discover creative ways to self-identify as Indigenous on your profile and receive tips for maximizing this online platform for job search and effective networking.
The power of the first impression
Networking is an essential element of the job search and building your career. However, the idea of chatting with strangers in an unfamiliar setting can be quite daunting. This interactive workshop will help you master small talk, networking etiquette, and provide tips on developing fruitful and lasting professional relationships.
Upcoming events
External resources
Community Futures Treaty 7
Community Futures Treaty 7 offers support for all First Nations status students in Treaty 7 territory.
You can contact them at 403.251.9242, for more information about their post-secondary summer career placement program and the supports they offer to employers interested in hiring First Nations students.
Rupertsland Institute (RLI) — Centre for Métis Excellence
Rupertsland Institute (RLI) — Centre for Métis Excellence: offers support, training and certification for Métis individuals. Employers can get in touch with RLI for access to their programs that support the Métis community and help individuals enter the labour market.