COVER LETTER
November 12, 2019
Dear Members of the Hiring Committee,
Choosing to go to a community college changed my life. In high school I was on an academic trajectory, destined (I thought) to study within the ivy-covered walls of a large Canadian university. It wasn’t until someone in my life took me on a tour of a local college that my plans shifted. Seeing myself in a space where I could enjoy experiential learning, focus on practical skills and problem solve through innovative thinking – this appealed to me. I later chose to transfer my college credits to university, simply because I so enjoyed learning and wanted to continue.
I’ve seen prospective students experience this kind of shift in their thinking when they begin to picture themselves in a learning environment that suits their goals and interests. During my time as Recruitment Office and later, Recruitment Coordinator at NSCAD, these interactions with prospective students have energized me. I’ve given personal consultations and effective presentations at small rural high schools and competitive urban private schools, at international recruitment fairs and in postsecondary classrooms. Along the way I’ve built trusted relationships with teachers, agents, guidance counsellors and prospective students. As a member of a great team, I’ve seen enrollment increase, students enroll from markets I’ve helped develop and had parents and teachers thank me for my care and approach.
I often say that we’re changing lives in recruitment - it’s true. We’re helping people of a variety of ages, coming from different backgrounds and experiences fit the right fit. I’ve been impressed by the recruiters from NSCC who I’ve met on the AARAO tour, at fairs and social events around the Maritimes and would be so excited for the opportunity to join their team.
As you’ll see on my CV, my student recruitment activities began at Sheridan College and I have experience in social media management, marketing, customer service and working with diverse populations. I’m a comfortable public speaker, an independent self-starter and great collaborator. I have enjoyed the last 3+ years and four busy fall seasons on the NSCAD recruitment team and would welcome the opportunity to further develop my range of skills at NSCC. I’m looking for a role where I can build on my experience and promote education opportunities (and an office that’s just a stone’s throw from my house would be a bonus). I look forward to discussing my suitability for the position of Recruitment Coordinator with you further.
Sincerely,
Meghan Macdonald
RESUME
EDUCATION
2024 (anticipated) Master of Arts in Art Education, NSCAD University
2022 Adult Education Foundations, NSCC
2012 BFA Interdisciplinary Arts, NSCAD University
2010 Advanced Honors Diploma in Crafts & Design, Textiles Major, Sheridan College
COURSES/WORKSHOPS OF INTEREST
2022 Indigenous Canada, University of Alberta (in progress)
2021 Understanding Diversity and Building Bridges, NSCC
2021 Trans Inclusion: Awareness and Allyship, NSCC
WORK EXPERIENCE
2020-Present Recruitment Coordinator, Nova Scotia Community College, Halifax NS
In my current role I work with teenaged and adult learners as they explore program options and move through the application process. I’m connecting with supporters and community organizations like school counsellors and employment centre staff to plan and deliver virtual presentations directly to their learners, tailored to age, location and program interest. Working in collaboration with College faculty, I’ve given presentations to highlight specific programs and campuses with the target of boosting enrolment. I’m corresponding with prospective students locally and internationally via email, phone, and video call, answering questions and supporting learners as they select their programs of interest and create an application. I work together with the other members of the Recruitment team as well as Admissions staff to provide accurate information about programs and admissions policy. I travel to give presentations in my region and tour campuses, recording expenses and setting targets for future visits. I use a variety of software including PeopleSoft, SimplyCast, Hootsuite, GoToWebinar, Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Outlook and Office Suite.
2019-2020 Recruitment Coordinator, NSCAD University, Halifax NS
2016-2019 Recruitment Officer
In this role on the recruitment team, I participated in and planned international and domestic recruitment activities targeting secondary and postsecondary students as well as mature applicants. Connecting with agents, utilizing alumni contacts and organizations like EduNova, I worked closely with the Director of Admissions, the Academic VP and faculty to research new and existing markets, organize travel plans and design outreach for prospective students. I created and delivered presentations, assisted in the development of marketing materials including the view book, and gave portfolio reviews. I worked with my colleagues to plan open houses, give campus tours and support the admissions process. I coordinated students, faculty and alumni when participating in on and off-campus events and managed budgeting, reporting and expenses for my recruitment travel. In 2019 I became Coordinator of my department, adding to my responsibilities as I provided direction and support to the two new Recruitment Officers.
2014-Present Social Media & Design Manager, Kohai LIFE, Toronto ON
As a part-time freelancer, I create promotional online and print content for this charity that provides life skills training for neurally diverse adults. Designing brochures, writing policy and protocol, and boosting the program’s online presence are all in a day’s work. I work remotely from Halifax, communicating with the Director in Toronto.
2013-Present Textile Designer & Partner, Calica Studio, Toronto ON & Halifax NS
Using a blend of hand and digital techniques, I create prints for textiles with my collaborator Rebecca Horwitz. We work together to manage the company’s online and social media presence and sell directly to consumers and to retail stores. Calica Studio scarves can be found at a selection of shops and craft shows internationally.
2013-2015 Buyer & Merchandiser, Easy Tiger Goods, Toronto ON
I was the first hire at Easy Tiger, scouted during the conceptual stage, and was a strong voice in the development of the shop’s style. I’m proud of the pieces I brought into the store, my communications with brands and makers and the careful eye used in the presentation of objects in the retail space and online. I handled international buying duties while traveling and managing a budget. When in the shop I provided exemplary customer service.
2013-2015 Art Instructor, Kohai Educational Centre, Toronto ON
I taught art classes at this small school for students with developmental disabilities where students ranged in age from 4 years to adulthood. I designed projects to match ability, working primarily in paint, pastel and plasticine. My students made some fantastic work.
2009-2010 Event Organizer, Sheridan College, Oakville ON
As a student, I worked on a team in Conference and Events Services that oversaw events that took place at the college. Working directly with clients, I handled the organization of functions from room rentals to equipment needs. This position required me to think on my feet, solve problems and collaborate with co-workers and clients.
2007-2010 Student Recruiter, Sheridan College, Oakville ON
I gave tours of the college to prospective students and their families. I was an expert on the Crafts and Design program I was enrolled in and learned specifics about other programs and the admissions process so that I could be a knowledgeable guide in all areas. I created my own script, which I stuck to casually, tailoring my information to suit my audience.
2006-2007 Researcher, Euromoney Magazine, London UK
I landed this job while travelling during a gap year after high school. It was my first experience working in an office environment and was a formative step in my career path. At Euromoney I managed a number of international awards and survey projects, organizing my own duties while coordinating tasks with the rest of the team. Researching companies and points of contact, I created a database to be used company-wide. I corresponded with financial institutions around the world.
TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
In my current role I use PeopleSoft, SimplyCast, Hootsuite, GoToWebinar, Microsoft Teams, Brightspace, Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp, Outlook, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. I have extensive experience with Adobe Photoshop and am familiar with other programs in the Adobe Creative Suite. I have a valid driver’s license.