Co-op Chronicles: Students Share Their Journeys in Industry
At Northeastern University in Toronto, co-op is more than just a résumé booster, it’s an opportunity for students to step into the heart of industry, apply what they’ve learned, and contribute to meaningful projects. In this edition of our Co-op Chronicles Series, we’re featuring three students who brought their classroom knowledge to life in sectors like cybersecurity and financial compliance, network infrastructure, and healthcare regulation. Read on as they reflect on the lessons learned, challenges faced, and impact made during their co-op journeys.
Paul Ojenomo – Master of Professional Studies in Analytics
Co-op Position: Cybersecurity Analyst, Bank of Montreal
What made your co-op experience memorable?
At BMO, I supported access governance by analyzing identity data to ensure accurate provisioning and deprovisioning. What stood out most was seeing how effective data validation and trend reporting can directly reduce security risks and improve operational efficiency.
What were your main responsibilities?
I analyzed access data to identify potential risks and supported remediation efforts using SailPoint. I developed dashboards and reports to track provisioning trends, flag anomalies, and ensure compliance with identity governance policies, all contributing to stronger access controls across the organization.
How did this co-op enhance your academic development?
This role gave me practical experience with tools like SailPoint and sharpened my ability to interpret access patterns. I also improved my Power BI skills for visualizing risk data. The experience deepened my understanding of cybersecurity operations and strengthened my commitment to a career in data-driven security and compliance.
What advice would you give to students entering their first co-op?
Every step you take (refining your resume, building your network, and learning new tools) gets you closer to the right opportunity. Stay proactive and open to growth.
What 3 words best encapsulate your experience at Northeastern University in Toronto?
Insightful. Empowering. Transformative.
What are some of your hobbies and other passions? Where do you find your joy?
I enjoy activities that challenge me to think differently, like experimenting in the kitchen, watching films, or analyzing workout data. Blending creativity with analytical thinking keeps me curious, energized, and always learning.
Shradha Sharma – Master of Science in Regulatory Affairs
Co-op Position: Regulatory & Quality Specialist, Radiometer Canada
What made your co-op experience memorable?
My co-op at Radiometer was a transformative dive into regulatory affairs. I led real-time audits, built compliance frameworks, and turned complex data into strategic insights. The trust and autonomy I was given made it memorable, it pushed me to grow faster and think bigger.
What were your main responsibilities?
I focused on improving complaint handling and CAPA systems. I created a complaint vs. non-complaint framework and used Power BI for root cause analysis. My work helped streamline compliance processes, boost audit readiness, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
How did this co-op enhance your academic development?
This role gave me hands-on exposure to the medical device industry and global regulatory standards. It deepened my understanding of Health Canada and FDA compliance and allowed me to apply complex concepts to real-world regulatory challenges.
What advice would you give to students entering their first co-op?
Treat your co-op as more than a résumé line, it’s a launchpad. Be curious, ask bold questions, and embrace challenges as chances to grow.
What 3 words best encapsulate your experience at Northeastern University in Toronto?
Transformative. Immersive. Trailblazing.
What are some of your hobbies and other passions? Where do you find your joy?
I find joy at the intersection of creativity and curiosity, through photography, human-centered design, and reading about science and innovation.
Jainil Subhashbhai Malaviya – Master of Science in Information Systems
Co-op Position: Automation Engineer, Nokia Canada Inc.
What made your co-op experience memorable?
My co-op at Nokia has been incredibly rewarding. As an Automation Engineer, I helped automate security testing for Nokia’s EDR product, designing and optimizing test scripts that improved reliability, strengthened automation workflows, and made the experience both challenging and impactful.
What were your main responsibilities?
I automated several security testing, threat simulation, and validation workflows for Nokia’s NetGuard EDR. By integrating these processes into continuous integration pipelines, I improved coverage, reduced manual effort, enhanced efficiency, and strengthened the product’s resilience against emerging cybersecurity threats.
How did this co-op enhance your academic development?
This role provided valuable hands-on experience applying theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, particularly in cybersecurity and automation. It strengthened my problem-solving abilities, enhanced my technical confidence, and deepened my understanding of how to build secure, efficient, and reliable automated systems.
What advice would you give to students entering their first co-op?
Take ownership of your learning and embrace challenges beyond your comfort zone. Every unfamiliar task is a chance to grow. The experiences, skills, and connections you develop during your co-op will not only shape your career path but also define your professional confidence.
What 3 words best encapsulate your experience at Northeastern University in Toronto?
Innovative. Engaging. Impactful.
What are some of your hobbies and other passions? Where do you find your joy?
I find joy in meaningful connections, shared experiences, and exploring new perspectives. Whether it’s traveling, trying new activities, or spending time with friends, I love moments that bring people together. I’m passionate about personal growth, positivity, and creating a sense of community wherever I go.