Algonquin College student lands job before graduation

Posted on Thursday, June 18th, 2026

When Md Irteza Chowdhury crosses the stage at Algonquin College’s convocation on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, he will celebrate more thanPhoto of Irteza Chowdhury earning two graduate certificates. He will also begin the next chapter of his career with a full-time job in his field.

Originally from Bangladesh, Chowdhury came to Canada in 2023 to study at Algonquin College. He enrolled in the Business Intelligence System Infrastructure program, followed by Artificial Intelligence Software Development, completing two graduate certificates back-to-back. Now 33, he describes his experience at Algonquin College as “the best learning experience of my life.”

Chowdhury currently works with the Public Health Agency of Canada in the Health Portfolio Operations Centre. He started as a co-op student in IT, supporting digital technology projects, artificial intelligence initiatives, and emergency response work. What began as a four-month co-op work term in September 2025 was extended to a full-time job and later transitioned into ongoing employment, giving him valuable experience in the federal public service before he graduates.

Securing a job before convocation is both exciting and validating. “It feels amazing,” he says. “The job market is very competitive… so when we got the job, it feels like everything is true about Algonquin… it definitely helps to build skills.”

Chowdhury credits much of his success to the support he received from the Co-op and Career Centre. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with co-op services early and often. “The program will build your knowledge,” he explains, “but the Co-op and Career Centre will help you connect with the industry in Canada.”

Through resume workshops, mock interviews and one-on-one advising, Chowdhury learned how to navigate the Canadian job market and present his skills with confidence. He points to the guidance of Co-op Student Advisors as instrumental throughout his journey.

One defining moment came on the day of his interview with the Public Health Agency of Canada. Just hours before, he booked a mock interview session with his Co-op Student Advisor. That experience helped him refine how he presented his skills and boosted his confidence. “I feel like I got the co-op because of that mock interview,” he says. “It helped me [learn] how to present myself, how to be confident.” That opportunity ultimately led to his current role.

While his academic programs built technical expertise, Chowdhury also developed important soft skills outside the classroom. Through the International Education Centre, he participated in student programs and later served as a mentor, supporting other International Students as they adapted to life in Canada. The experience helped him strengthen his communication and networking abilities in a multicultural environment.

He also speaks highly of his professors, describing them as “truly amazing” and dedicated to helping students succeed by building both technical skills and confidence.

Chowdhury encourages future students to take advantage of supports from the very beginning. “Start from level one,” he advises, emphasizing the importance of building skills, refining resumes and practicing interviews early.

As convocation approaches, the milestone is especially meaningful. His family and colleagues will be there to celebrate. “It will be a heavenly feeling… especially when my mom will see me,” he says.

Chowdhury credits Algonquin College with providing the tools he needed to succeed. “It has everything, programs, support, opportunities, which will help you to build your career.”

Algonquin College’s 2026 Convocation ceremonies will take place from June 23-26, 2026, at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa. Graduates will participate in 12 ceremonies over four days.


Comments

Comments are closed.