Gavin Davies
Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs
Where did Gavin work?
Work Term: Analyst, Privy Council Office
What did Gavin accomplish?
Main Tasks
As an Analyst for the Privy Council, Gavin was responsible for staying current on developments on the countries and issues that he was assigned to. He also wrote comprehensive and forward-looking commentaries and analysis summaries for relevant government clients. In addition, Gavin coordinated with his team on projects, editing, feedback, networking, and strategy planning.
Major accomplishments
Gavin submitted analyses for high level clients, a task that required extensive research and consultation with experts. Upon receiving the necessary information, he would draw out policy-relevant conclusions and work with his supervisor in finalizing the content. This particular task was time-sensitive – Gavin needed to work quickly in conducting his research and drafting his analyses.
Despite working from home, Gavin was also able to build a network. “One of the criteria to be a good analyst is to actively build connections,” he describes. He took the initiative to reach out to individuals who work on similar issues within other branches of the Canadian government and gradually build rapport.
How did Arts Co-op benefit Gavin?
Link between Academics and Work
Gavin’s studies were focused on breaking down the core building blocks of policy makings and tying them into contemporary events as examples. Through his co-op term, he applied his studies by synthesizing contemporary events into analysis for policy makers. In addition, Gavin gained government work experience and built connections that, in his words, “will be essential in opening doors to a wide array of career opportunities.”
Preparation for post-graduation
Gavin’s work experience deepened his understanding of the machinations and internal dynamics of government. “If I aim to be effective in any policy career, knowing how to navigate those channels and knowing people who can help is essential,” he describes. Gavin noted that previous students in his position had been hired full-time, or have seamlessly transferred into other government departments post-graduation. He hopes that his co-op experience will lead to similar opportunities for the future.
Gavin Davies
Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs
Where did Gavin work?
Work Term: Analyst, Privy Council Office
What did Gavin accomplish?
Main Tasks
As an Analyst for the Privy Council, Gavin was responsible for staying current on developments on the countries and issues that he was assigned to. He also wrote comprehensive and forward-looking commentaries and analysis summaries for relevant government clients. In addition, Gavin coordinated with his team on projects, editing, feedback, networking, and strategy planning.
Major accomplishments
Gavin submitted analyses for high level clients, a task that required extensive research and consultation with experts. Upon receiving the necessary information, he would draw out policy-relevant conclusions and work with his supervisor in finalizing the content. This particular task was time-sensitive – Gavin needed to work quickly in conducting his research and drafting his analyses.
Despite working from home, Gavin was also able to build a network. “One of the criteria to be a good analyst is to actively build connections,” he describes. He took the initiative to reach out to individuals who work on similar issues within other branches of the Canadian government and gradually build rapport.
How did Arts Co-op benefit Gavin?
Link between Academics and Work
Gavin’s studies were focused on breaking down the core building blocks of policy makings and tying them into contemporary events as examples. Through his co-op term, he applied his studies by synthesizing contemporary events into analysis for policy makers. In addition, Gavin gained government work experience and built connections that, in his words, “will be essential in opening doors to a wide array of career opportunities.”
Preparation for post-graduation
Gavin’s work experience deepened his understanding of the machinations and internal dynamics of government. “If I aim to be effective in any policy career, knowing how to navigate those channels and knowing people who can help is essential,” he describes. Gavin noted that previous students in his position had been hired full-time, or have seamlessly transferred into other government departments post-graduation. He hopes that his co-op experience will lead to similar opportunities for the future.