Meet Alex, a pragmatic software engineering student at the University of Waterloo. With a knack for coding since childhood, Alex spent summers interning at tech startups, gaining hands-on experience rather than relying on a degree alone. They believe that real-world skills and connections made during co-op placements are what truly elevate candidates in the competitive job market. A firm believer in the power of practical experience, Alex often mentors peers on the importance of internships over traditional degrees.