September 1, 2023
It’s that time of year again—we are pleased to welcome our Fall co-ops! We are so excited to welcome four students this term, who will be joining our projects and marketing teams. Up first to tell us a bit about themselves is our Project Coordinator Co-Op, Justin Martindale!
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Tell us about yourself, Justin!
I was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, and grew up in the same house throughout my entire life. My childhood consisted of numerous extra curricular’s such as hockey, basketball and music lessons, whereas my summers were spent at outdoors at overnight camp and cottages. Currently I am studying a Bachelor of Commerce at Dalhousie University, with an emphasis on Managing People and Organizations, along with a minor in Economics. I have past experiences in roles involving customer service, order procurement and compliance in banking. What led me to where I am today was a drive to step out of my comfort zone and try something new that interested me.
The tech sector in Nova Scotia is thriving, what are you most looking forward to about working in this industry?
There are numerous prospects I am excited to learn about while working in this industry. The tech sector is one that I believe is very versatile and holds great potential in numerous different fields, including AI and machine learning. I’m interested to see how these technologies are being used to the advantage of companies today as part of the world’s rapid globalization. Additionally, I am fascinated to understand different technology companies’ approach to their business model, in a space where competitors are so relevant.
So, you’ve finished one week with us – how was it?
Thus far DNS has sported an extremely welcoming environment that strikes a great balance between co-worker relationships and productivity. Each on-going project is relevant but just complex enough to have you interested in seeing the final product come to fruition. The first week has given me a good preview of what’s to come, and I’m excited to seek the rest of my time here.
What’s something you’re really interested in that might surprise us?
I spent every summer growing up going to camp that involved canoe trips. I have done more than 15 outtrips throughout my life, with the longest being 16 days in Northern Quebec spanning over 150 km.
Where would you want it to be if you were given a plane ticket to anywhere in the world?
If I were given a plane ticket to go anywhere in the world there are two places that immediately come to mind. The first place would have to be Japan. It’s a place I’ve heard is proud of its beauty and extremely rich history. I’d love to go to Tokyo to see what a real mega-city looks like, along with traveling to Kyoto to immerse myself in authentic Japanese culture. The other place would have to be Cape Town, South Africa. It’s at a very southern point in the world, in a country with lots of history, found between two oceans. I would like to go to Cape Town just to be able to hike Lions Head, which is a peak where you can see the two oceans from one view.
Quick hitters!
Spring or fall? – Fall
Android or iPhone? – IPhone
Comedy or thriller? – Comedy
Coffee or tea? – Coffee
Star Wars or Star Trek? – Star Wars
Laptop or Desktop? – Laptop
Breakfast or Dinner? – Dinner
Ocean or lake? – Lake
Fun fact – I have met Jack Black
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Tell us about yourself, Cassidy!
I am a third-year Marketing student at Dalhousie University completing my second co-op term. With a marketing-focused co-op term under my belt and interest in digital marketing, I am eager to enhance my skills within the tech sector alongside Digital Nova Scotia!
The tech sector in Nova Scotia is thriving, what are you most looking forward to about working in this industry?
I am excited to make meaningful connections within the growing industry and learn more about how tech is applied in all sectors! I hope to improve my digital skills and amplify my passion for this industry.
So, you’ve finished one week with us – how was it?
Terrific! Not only am I able to do work I enjoy, but I get to complete it alongside a welcoming and encouraging team. I wake up eager to start my day, knowing that I will continue to learn skills I can use throughout my future career and personal life.
What’s something you’re really interested in that might surprise us?
In my free time, I love to play video games on my Xbox and PS4! My favourite game series is Uncharted, but I also enjoyed the Last of Us duology and the Assassin’s Creed series.
Where would you want it to be if you were given a plane ticket to anywhere in the world?
New Zealand! I have always been interested in their natural landscapes and wildlife. I find their culture fascinating and would love to see their vibrant community. Since I am too scared to go to Australia, on account of the terrifying spiders/snakes, I think New Zealand would be the perfect place for me!
Quick hitters!
Spring or fall? – Fall – I can’t get enough of pumpkin flavoured drinks and eating pumpkin seeds!
Android or iPhone? – iPhone – I have a whole Apple ecosystem!
Comedy or thriller? – Comedy
Coffee or tea? – Coffee
Star Wars or Star Trek? – Star Wars
Laptop or Desktop? – Laptop
Breakfast or Dinner? – Breakfast
Ocean or lake? – Lake
Fun fact – I have recently revived my old 2002 Gameboy Advance SP and have a collection of my favourite games from my childhood. I enjoy playing them whenever I can!
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Tell us about yourself, Lauren!
I was born in Calgary and moved out to Halifax to pursue my goal of getting a Commerce degree. I am in my third year at Dalhousie University, majoring in marketing, and completing a certificate in entrepreneurship and innovation. I am really excited to be taking on a project coordinator role here at Digital Nova Scotia to expand my knowledge and skill set on the hard work that goes into effectively executing large projects.
The tech sector in Nova Scotia is thriving, what are you most looking forward to about working in this industry?
I do not have much experience in tech myself so I am really excited to learn more about the industry and connect with a wide range of professionals and new members of the sector.
So, you’ve finished one week with us – how was it?
So far I love it! Its very collaborative and well organized. The team environment is supportive and I can already tell that my supervisor Alex is happy to help me connect with other departments to take on a few tasks that I am interested in that are outside of my original scope.
What’s something you’re really interested in that might surprise us?
I love planning events! Whether its birthday parties, charity events, product launches or sports tournaments I am constantly brainstorming fun ideas.
Where would you want it to be if you were given a plane ticket to anywhere in the world?
Malta!
Quick hitters!
Spring or fall? – Fall
Android or iPhone? – iPhone
Comedy or thriller? – Thriller
Coffee or tea? – Coffee
Star Wars or Star Trek? – Star Wars
Laptop or Desktop? – Desktop
Breakfast or Dinner? –Dinner
Ocean or lake? – Lake
Fun fact – I went backpacking for 5 weeks this year around 7 different countries!
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Tell us about yourself, Sam!
I was born and raised in London, Ontario and moved to Halifax to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Dalhousie University. I am currently in my third year in the Commerce Co-Op program majoring in Entrepreneurship & Finance. One day I hope to get into sports management/marketing for my future career.
So, you’ve finished one week with us – how was it?
The first week was great! The team at DNS is very warm and welcoming. I am very excited to learn more about the future of technology and how it can be implemented into our lives.
What’s something you’re really interested in that might surprise us?
History & Architecture.
Where would you want it to be if you were given a plane ticket to anywhere in the world?
Patagonia, South America.
Quick hitters!
Spring or fall? – Fall
Android or iPhone? – IPhone
Comedy or thriller? – Comedy
Coffee or tea? – Tea
Star Wars or Star Trek? – Star Wars
Laptop or Desktop? – Desktop
Breakfast or Dinner? – Breakfast
Ocean or lake? – Lake
Fun fact – At my best, I recorded a 30 inch vertical leap.