Career Month

Presented by the Career, Community & Experiential Learning Centre. In partnership with UMSU & the UM Alumni Association.  Join us for a series of career workshops and special events throughout November!

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Career Month

November 2 - 30, 2026

Career Month has something for everyone!  Whether you have a clear plan and career direction or you’re still trying to figure things out, Career Services is here to support your success.  From first-year to final year, students and alumni can benefit from attending one or more of the 20+ events taking place this November. 

Check out the events and workshops happening in the schedule below. Use the links to register and learn more. You can also visit UM Connect for additional upcoming event details - including off-campus industry sessions.

On this page:

Career Month 2026: Connect, Engage, Experience | Event Highlights

UM Alumni x TD Insurance photo

$1,000 Student Tuition Prize Draw

Throughout Career Month (Nov 2 - 30) every time you attend a Career Month workshop or event you will be entered for a chance to win $1,000 towards your tuition. This draw continues again on January 27 & 28 at the annual UM Career Fair where you can enter again if you attend. This tuition prize is generously sponsored by the UM Alumni Association and TD Insurance, UM’s affinity partner for home, vehicle and travel insurance offering discounts to alumni, students, staff and faculty. Click the heading below for complete contest rules.

$1,000 Student Tuition Prize Draw contest rules and regulations

UM Alumni Association Student Tuition Contest (the “Contest”) -– Official Contest Rules 

THIS CONTEST IS INTENDED FOR RESIDENTS OF CANADA ONLY (EXCLUDING QUEBEC) AND IS GOVERNED BY CANADIAN LAW 

  1. How to Enter 
    No purchase necessary. To enter, contestants must complete an e-ballot available during Career Month activities (November 2026) and the annual Career Fair (January 27 and 28, 2027) at the University of Manitoba (the “University”).
    The Contest starts at 10:00 AM CT, November 2, 2026 and closes with all entries received by 11:59 PM CT, January 28, 2027. The selected contestant will be required to correctly answer a time-limited mathematical skill-testing question without mechanical aid before being declared a winner.
  2. Prizes
    The prize to be awarded is one (1) prize of $1,000.00 CAD (the “Prize”). The University reserves the right to make prize substitutions of equivalent value in the event of unavailability of the prize or any aspect thereof for reasons beyond the control of the University. The prize must be accepted as awarded without substitution and cannot be transferred.
  3. Selection of Winners
    Winner will be selected from among all eligible entries received, in a random draw by a representative, or designate, of Alumni Relations the week of February 1, 2027. Participation will be verified with UMConnect attendance records for Career Month, and check-in for the Career Fair. Winner will be contacted by the contact information provided on the ballot. If he or she is unable to be reached in that manner within 24 hours of the draw, they will forfeit their prize and another eligible entry will be drawn. The Prize shall be mailed to the confirmed winner at the address they provide.
  4. Contest Closing Date
    The Contest closing date is 11:59 PM, CT January 28, 2027.
  5. Contest Eligibility
    Contestants must be 17 years of age or older, a current student enrolled at the University and a resident of Canada (excluding Quebec) to participate in this contest. Contestants under the age of 18 warrant they have their parent or guardian’s consent to enter. Employees of the University, and their immediate families with whom they reside are not eligible to win this contest. Contestants who are delinquent in any indebtedness to the University in respect of any other claims, or outstanding accounts are also not eligible to win.
  6. Chances of Winning
    The chances of winning the Prize will depend on the total number of eligible entries received before the contest closing date in accordance with these rules.
  7. Release and Waiver
    Winners may be required to complete, sign, and return a declaration, release and waiver of liability in the form provided by the University within the time specified by the University, and must have abided by the Contest Rules. Failure to return the duly completed declaration, release and waiver form, if required, within the time stipulated or failure to abide by these Rules will result in disqualification and another entry will be randomly selected from the remaining eligible entries.
  8. Decisions Final
    By entering the Contest, contestants agree to be bound by these Contest Rules and agree that all decisions made by the University with respect to all aspects of this Contest are final and not subject to challenge. These rules may be amended at any time by the University without notice. The University expressly reserves the right to take any steps it deems necessary in its absolute discretion, including the limiting of entries and the exclusion of contestants, in order to ensure that the contest is conducted in a fair way for all contestants and for the University.
  9. No Liability
    The University and its employees, agents, representatives, promotional agencies and assignees shall not be responsible in any way for loss or damage arising from the use of or, bear any liability whatsoever in any way attributable to, the Prize awarded in this Contest or the entry by any contestant herein. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the University assumes no responsibility or liability for any risk or dangers associated with the acceptance or use of the prizes awarded as part of this contest or any liability associated with or arising from online or electronic entries, and expressly disclaims liability from loss or damage to a contestant's, or any other person’s, computer system or other hardware resulting from participating in the contest and for any problems or technical malfunctions of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems or servers, computer software problems or traffic congestion on the internet or at any website.
  10. Entries belong to the University
    All entries become the property of the University and will not be returned.
  11. Lost Entries
    The University is not responsible for any lost, misdirected, illegible, incomplete or delayed entries.
  12. Consent to Use and Personal Information
    By entering the contest, contestants’ consent to the use and publication of their name, photograph, voice or statements in connection with the contest or any subsequent similar contest held by the University, without payment or compensation other than the chance to win the prize awarded. The personal information obtained from the contest entry form will not be used or disclosed by the University for any purpose other than general contest administration and the purpose set forth herein.
  13. Applicable Laws
    This contest is subject to all applicable, federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations.
  14. Cancellations, Suspensions or Modifications
    The University may, in its discretion, cancel, suspend or modify this Contest, without liability to anyone whatsoever. If this is an online contest and for any reason the online portion is not capable of being completed as planned, including but not limited to computer lines, bugs, tampering, technical failures or other causes beyond its control, the University reserves the right to cancel, suspend or modify the online portion of the contest.
  15. Email Addresses
    In the event of a dispute as to the identity of a winner based on an email address, the winning entry will be deemed to be made by the person who was assigned the email address by an internet service provider or other organization responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the email address in question at the time of entry.
  16. Errors and Omissions Excepted
    The University is not responsible for any errors whatsoever in the Contest Rules or promotion of the Contest, including without limitation any printing, distribution or production errors and may, in its discretion, withdraw this contest if it is found to contain any such error, without liability to anyone whatsoever.

NOVEMBER 2- 30, 2026 Career Month 2026 Schedule

Week 1 | November 2 - 6

Monday, November 2

Tuesday, November 3

Wednesday, November 4

Thursday, November 5

Friday, November 6

Week 2 | November 9 - 13

Friday, November 13

 

Week 3 | November 16 - 20

Monday, November 16

Tuesday, November 17

Wednesday, November 18

Thursday, November 19

Friday, November 20

Week 4 | November 23 - 27

Monday, November 23

Tuesday, November 24 

Wednesday, November 25

Thursday, November 26

  • 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Employer Advice Cafe: One-to-one Conversations & Networking (All students welcome!) Connect with employer reps from a range of organizations, including Manitoba Government STEP Service, National Research Council, City of Winnipeg, Wawanesa, PepsiCo. 10-minute meetings with organization reps can be pre-booked. Walk-up opportunities also available! 

    Sample questions to ask employers at the event: How can I enhance my resumé? What general recommendations do you have for applying? What recommendations do you have for cover letters?  | What skills can I develop now to increase my employability?  | What type of experiences do employers in this field value?  | What interview questions and hiring practices are common in this industry? 

Friday, November 27

Employer Advice

From resume and interview tips to general career advice, check out what these industry experts have to say…

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Anne Thea Ocampo

Campus Talent Acquisition Advisor, Canada Life

Prepare for Behavioral Questions: "Practice answering questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This helps you showcase your problem-solving and impact clearly."

Network Strategically: "Connect with professionals in your field and engage in meaningful conversations. Networking isn't just about quantity; it's about building genuine relationships."

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Brooke Reed

Recruitment Services Advisor, Birchwood Automotive Group

"Join clubs, take part in competitions, or volunteer. These experiences build transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership that employers value, and are a great way to start off networking!"

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Danielle Harvey-Wilson

Talent Acquisition Specialist Il, Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company

Preparation will set you apart: "The biggest piece of feedback I hear from hiring leaders after interviews has to do with preparation. Either the candidate did not prepare, or they were very well prepared! Some things to do to prepare yourself for an interview include: take the skills listed in the job posting and use this prompt in Co-Pilot or Chat GPT "Please create behavioural based questions based off these skills: [insert the skills here]", then sit down and think about how you would answer them. You can make handwritten notes and even bring them to the interview with you! It does show when you're prepared."

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Jessica Mills

Human Resources, Manitoba Métis Federation

Do your research before you apply: "Take some time to learn about the position, the company, and their mission, vision, and values. Think about why you see yourself working there and how the role aligns with your goals. Conducting research ahead of time helps you feel more prepared and gives you something meaningful to discuss during an interview. Taking the initiative also shows an additional level of interest in the organization, which can help you stand out during the selection process."

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Mercedes Winstone

Human Resources, Manitoba Métis Federation

Utilizing Transferable Skills in an Interview: "If you are new to the workforce and don't have direct work experience applicable to the role, highlight and draw on your transferable skills that you have gained through university courses, such as group projects (teamwork), drafting documents (essays), communication, time management, and problem solving etc."

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Nicole Telenko

Talent Coordinator, Public Service Commission

"A resumé is a summary highlighting your qualifications, skills, training and education for the type of position you are seeking. When describing your work and education history you can also include part-time, casual, summer jobs, and volunteer experience, and special courses, updated skills and/or workshops. Don't forget to describe your computer experience and training."

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Tracy Klassen

Manager, Talent Acquisition, People Corporation

"Stop using ChatGPT to craft any sort or written communication, it's obvious and makes you sound like every other person who sends emails using ChatGPT and there are a lot. You need to be unique; not sound like all of the other candidates you're competing with for jobs."

"Know who you ARE - you are selling yourself to employers so do not be broad when someone asks you to tell them about yourself. Focus on 2 or 3 key strengths of yours that set you apart from others. Remember, you're more than just a job title."

More Employer advice

Sonia Johannson
Human Resources Business Partner, SkipTheDishes

“As best you can look for an employer whose values align with your own!  We all need a “job” but it can be very demotivating to work with a company whose values don’t jibe with yours.”

Alison Marshall
Talent Acquisition, Specialist  D2L

“For those just breaking into their career, be sure you are able to showcase your eagerness and willingness to learn.  This is really important so be sure to let that come through in your interviews.”

Todd Demers (he/him)
Recruitment Specialist,  City of Winnipeg

“Always make sure your resume is tailored to show how you meet the qualifications of the position you’re applying for.”

Lynn Kjartanson
Regional Enablement Coach, RBC Royal Bank

“The most important skills an employee can have in these times are: agility, resiliency and adaptability.”

Cara Therrien
Sr. HR Business Partner, Elevated HR Solutions

“To those breaking into their career my biggest piece of advice is this: don’t be afraid to make mistakes, just be willing to learn from them. We grow more from our failures than our successes.”

Anelle McLaughlin
Senior Director, Culture and Operations Staffmax Staffing & Recruiting

“When the employer asks you if you have any questions for them, be prepared to interview them back – don’t leave saying you don’t have any!”

Jaysa Toet
CPHR Founder, Lively Consulting

“Make informed career decisions through informational interviews, co-op experiences, and student groups to find your unique 'why'."

Eucharia Ogoms
Director of Employment Services Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development

A favourite career quote: “Surround yourself with the dreamers, and the doers, the believers, and thinkers, but most of all, surround yourself with those who see the greatness within you, even when you don’t see it yourself.” - Edmond Lee

Career Myths

When it comes to career advice, it is worthwhile to ensure you are carefully separating fact from fiction. At Career Services we have heard several career myths over the years, and we want to debunk some of them for you. Our goal is to help you move forward in your career with best information available!

Myth: To move forward in my career planning, I need to have selected a specific occupation.

Fact: It’s possible, and even essential, to move forward without making one big decision. Effective career planning involves knowing your preferences, knowing the many options available to you, and gaining experience to support your confidence.  This involves taking many small steps and making smaller decisions that will drive your career journey. 

Take Action! Book an appointment with a Career Consultant by calling 204-474-9456 to learn how to move forward in your career planning. 

Myth: The only time to visit Career Services is at the end of my degree, when looking for job after graduation.

Fact: Career Services is here to help you throughout your entire academic journey! At the start of your studies, we can help you explore and articulate your career preferences and navigate occupational and educational pathways best suited to you.  Throughout your entire degree we can guide you to extra-curricular opportunities that provide industry exposure and boost your employability.  

Take Action! Start your career planning early in your degree to explore your interests and build marketable skills! Use our online resources or book an appointment with a Career Consultant by calling (204) 474-9456.

Myth: It's impossible to work in my field before completing my degree.

Fact: Volunteering and part-time or summer employment are great ways to gain relevant skills to increase your employability - no matter what your field.  If your program does not offer practicums or co-op, connect with Career Services to learn about other opportunities.

Take Action this Career Month: Attend the upcoming Volunteer Fair on November 4 and Job Search Workshop on November 6 to learn about the many opportunities available to you.  

Myth: The only reason to network is to look for a job.

Fact: Networking can provide job leads and helps you tap into the 'hidden job market'. But it's also a great way to gather career information, get advice from professionals and learn about an industry or occupation.

Take Action! Sign-up for the Career Mentor Program to meet with professionals for one-hour informational interviews.  Career Services can also direct you to relevant industry associations that provide networking opportunities.

Myth: Paid experience is the only experience employers value.

Fact: Employers value transferable skills that you develop through a variety of experiences, both paid and unpaid. Volunteering allows you to build many marketable skills that employers look for and helps you learn about yourself and your work preferences.

Take Action! Develop your skills by volunteering. Attend the Volunteer Fair on November 4th. 

Myth: The only way to find jobs is to check online job posting boards.

Fact: In Canada, 60% of employers use personal contacts, referrals and informal networks to recruit candidates. These recruitment strategies are used just as frequently as posting positions on their company websites. (Government of Manitoba, 2019).

Take action! Attend a Job Search Workshop at Career Services to learn about effective job search. Check dates and register on UMConnect. 

Myth: Career fairs are only for graduates looking for full-time work.

Fact: All students should attend fairs early in their studies to discover the skills and attributes employers are looking for. The sooner you understand what employers are looking for, the more time you have to build relevant skills and knowledge!

Take Action! Visit the annual January Career Fair which hosts close to 100 employers. 

Myth: Canadian employers only value Canadian experience.

Fact: Canadian employers value transferrable skills that can be gained from a variety of experiences. And though prior experience in Canada is valuable, the skills you gained from international experience are recognized.  You didn't leave your competencies at the border when you arrived in Canada.

Take Action! Attend a Career Services employment workshop to learn how your experiences align with potential positions and employment requirements.  Register for upcoming workshops on UM Connect.

Myth: If I want to work in health care, I need to be a doctor or nurse.

Fact: There are 40,000 occupations in Canada, including over 170 occupations in healthcare such as occupational therapist, respiratory therapist, genetic counsellor, and physician assistant.

Take Action! Explore health care occupations using the UM Occupational Library and Discover Your Future in Health Care video recordings. Meet with a Career Consultant to help you to explore your preferences and which options are most suitable for you. Call (204) 474-9456 to book an appointment!

Myths: As an Arts grad, my employment options will be limited.

Fact: 55% of professionals with Bachelor's degrees over 30 countries have a background in social sciences or humanities and work across all industries, including business, healthcare and government (British Council, 2015).

Take action!  This Career Month, attend the Arts Alumni Networking Night to connect with alumni working in a wide range of fields... Register on UMConnect. Anytime throughout the year, meet with a Career Consultant to explore a wide range of jobs suited to you... Call (204) 474-9456 to book an appointment!  

Myth: A PhD only qualifies you to work in academia.

Fact: 1 in 5 PhDs are employed as full-time university professors. Most PhDs are employed outside of academia, with the majority working in government, industry or not-for profit organizations (Conference Board of Canada, 2015).

Take Action! Meet with a Career Consultant to learn about occupations outside of academia relevant to your field. Call (204) 474-9456 to book an appointment.

Career Articles

Career Consultant Tips

The Career Services team is full of useful advice that can help you envision your future and take charge of your career. We’ve gathered favourite tips from our staff members which you can use right now. And remember, if you want to meet the real, non-bitmoji experts behind this advice, you can meet with us online or by phone for tailored tips for your own career by emailing cs.receptionist@umanitoba.ca or calling 204-474-9456.

Paula's Bitmoji. Paula's bitmoji is excitedly reading a book, while holding two in her hand!

Paula Hossack, Career Consultant

“Does the thought of writing a tailored resumé seem daunting? We all know that tailoring your resumé is the best way to get the attention of hiring managers, but sometimes it’s hard to remember all of the relevant experiences you’ve had that could be included. Creating a 'master resumé' that includes all of the experiences and education you’ve ever had, in one running document, can help. By keeping an updated document, you can pull the relevant experiences from the master resumé as a starting point. Then tailor away! "

bitmoji of Samar saying "How's it goin'"

Samar Seoudi, Career Consultant

“Still haven't made a career choice?? It takes time! I know; I have been there! Just be in the moment and enjoy every experience: learn, develop, grow and stay self-aware. This will help you make the right choice."

A bitmoji of Ilianna who is studying at a cozy desk

Ilianna Hoople, Career Mentor Program Coordinator & Career Advisor

“Believe us when we say that working on your career is a full-time job! Between backwards-planning, finding relevant job postings, writing tailored resumes or cover letters, preparing for interviews, the list never ends! With so many different tasks to balance, do not hesitate to reach out to us so we can provide assistance and tips to help optimize your workload!"

Bitmoji of Lindsey Hiebert, Career Consultant, waving through a laptop screen

Lindsey Hiebert, Career Consultant

“Job interviews are tough for everyone, there’s no getting around it. But preparation and practice are key to success! Do your research, anticipate questions, and practice your answers so you’ll appear polished and professional. I highly recommend using your smartphone to record yourself answering a question so you can assess what impression you’re making on an employer. It might not be a lot of fun, but it will pay off.”

Bitmoji of Trevor Lehmann, Career Consultant, singing with a to-go coffee

Trevor Lehmann, Career Consultant

“Stop asking yourself what job you will do until retirement. Trying to predict who you will be or what the world will look like when you are 40, 50, or 60 is an exercise in futility. Ask yourself instead, what does the world need and what do I want to do first!”

Jordan Bitmoji

Jordan Robinson, Indigenous Career Consultant

" Decision making can be really difficult when it comes to career development. In many cases this is due to two challenges: the first being a lack of information, and the second being a lack of experience. Learning more about your career options by using resources such as the Career Compass, Career Mentor Program and UM Occupational Library pages can help you gain additional knowledge about your options. Gaining experience through volunteering or part-time employment can also be highly beneficial and build your confidence. You never know what you will enjoy doing until you go out there and try!”

A photo of Rea waving with a "hey" textbox.

Rea Campbell, Career Consultant

“My favorite advice that I received during my studies was, "Get a big cup of coffee, find a comfortable spot to sit, and take your time to review and understand." By starting early and taking small and consistent steps forward, you can understand your options and make informed choices. Be kind to yourself while you are learning, and lean into the unfamiliar."