CPABC How to Series: Maximizing Your Co-op Experience

Your co-op experience is more than just a work term. It's an opportunity to build professional skills, explore career paths, and gain valuable workplace experience that can shape your future success. Join a panel of CPAs and CPA candidates as they reflect on their journeys from co-op student to accounting professionals. Through candid conversations and real-world experiences, panelists will share what they learned during their co-op placements, how those experiences influenced their career decisions, and what skills and mindsets helped them succeed throughout the CPA program and beyond.

If you are preparing for your first co-op opportunity, looking to make the most of a current placement, or wanting to learn more about important skills used in accounting and finance, you'll gain practical insights and a better understanding of how to turn undergraduate work experiences into a strong foundation for future career success.

Panelist

Braden Lo
Accountant
Smythe LLP

Braden Lo is an accountant at Smythe LLP, where he works on a variety of accounting and assurance engagements for clients across different industries. He began his career in public practice through co-op opportunities, which provided him with valuable hands-on experience and helped shape his career in accounting. Braden enjoys the variety of public practice and the opportunity to work closely with clients and colleagues. He is excited about sharing his experiences and helping students better understand the opportunities that co-op can provide.

Snobar
Audit Associate
Office of the Auditor General - British Columbia

Snobar is an Audit Associate at the Office of the Auditor General, BC (OAG BC), with a background in accounting and auditing. She holds a bachelor's degree from India and completed a post-degree diploma in Accounting at Camosun College, Victoria, BC. She is currently pursuing CPA designation after completing a Co-op at OAG BC in September 2025. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her dog, Enzo, who keeps her busy with his playful personality and endless energy.