The backpack 2 Briefcase Program

Backpack to Briefcase

The backpack 2 Briefcase (b2B) program is a valuable way for students and recent grads to connect with experienced alumni to learn about career paths. Students attend networking events that help them learn about the lived experiences of alumni in industry and academia, explore career prospects and gain a better understanding of the strength of their A&S degree.

Register today

Industry Night

Industry night is a highlight of the b2B program and includes

  • networking with alumni from various fields
  • a chance to connect students with other students on similar career path
  • exploration of your next steps and tools to navigate the current job market

More information on what to expect and how to prepare is shared with students who register for b2B closer to the fall event date.

Stay tuned to this page in September for more details on which departments, centres and institutes will be offering additional b2B events.

Arts & Science students in an event

What students are saying

"This program is terrific; it's always so relieving to hear alumni stories of struggle and success, as it provides comfort and builds confidence to us as undergrads, knowing they were in the exact same positions as we are now. They also point out the difficulties they faced when exploring the job market, which is also interesting to hear, and helps us mentally prepare for the upcoming challenges we will face when looking for our first jobs." — French student

"It was incredibly interesting to listen to the panelists' experiences and how their decisions impacted their career. I was able to draw inspiration from that and focus on how to better leverage opportunities. The insights into the recruiting process allowed me to better prepare and present myself in front of campus recruiters." — Computer science student

"The most meaningful part of the event was when panelists were forthright in discussing their setbacks and failures in their career development, along with strategies on how to bounce back from common pitfalls. Career development is filled with uncertainty and anxiety for many students. The pandemic has worsened this, and it's reassuring to hear panelists discuss failure in a candid and accepting manner." — History student