CREDIT: FSU PUBLICATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT

The years spent at college or university will be some of the most important years of your life; especially if you will be entering the professional workforce for the first time. You’ve received an education, cemented your social circle, and hopefully created some lasting, cherished memories. You are now the proud owner of a college diploma. Well done, you. The question now is, “Are you job ready?”

Gloria Castelo a professor at Fanshawe College in the Information Technology department, who also has over 30 years of experience heading various departments with London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) said the three key qualities a student should be mindful of when entering the job market are:

• Respect: Listening to others and speaking with respect
• Professionalism: Work attire and behaviour
• Punctuality: Showing respect for others’ time

The workforce is changing at a rapid speed, with new technologies, new industries, and new mindsets. According to Castelo’s observations, work habits over the years have also been changing.


“I have noticed a more leisure approach to work hours, attire and attitude in general,” Castelo said. “As younger generations join the workforce, I find it harder to adjust to another level of etiquette that often goes against my own principles. The same can be said for the older generation which I find very cynical and negative. I often land right in the middle.”

Castelo offered a gem of advice to anyone embarking on their first professional job post-college.

“I expect professionalism in the workplace and colleagues to treat others as they want to be treated and this often works well.”

Darlene O’Neill, the Director of Employment and Student Entrepreneurial Services at Fanshawe College said that every graduate has something to offer in the workforce, but that there is always room for growth.

“[It] varies from person to person,” O’Neill said. “I feel to build strategies, to articulate and demonstrate individual strengths is an area in need of improvement. Luckily, the college has identified the Seven Skills for the Future, and each program focuses on three skills in the teaching and learning curriculum. Students can gain further experience in skills improvement/ demonstration by getting involved [on campus].”

Fanshawe’s Seven Skills for The Future

1. 1. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
2. 2. Collaboration Across Networks and Leading by Influence
3. 3. Agility and Adaptability
4. 4. Initiative and Entrepreneurship
5. 5. Effective Oral and Written Communication
6. 6. Assessing and Analyzing Information
7. 7. Curiosity and Imagination

The future post-college can be very intimidating. With the right attitude and awareness of what is required in any work environment, you’re set for a successful and exciting career. Go get’m Fanshawe grads.