Finding Purpose Through Co‑op: Farha’s Story
Meet Farha Gomaa, a fifth-year Carleton student in the Bachelor of Science Honours program, majoring in Biology & Biotech and minoring in Business (Entrepreneurship). She started her co-op at Virtual Ventures as a STEM Outreach Instructor in winter 2025 and is currently continuing the position in an 8-month co-op term through winter 2026. Check out her story to discover how the Co-op program turned career questions into career clarity:
“My co-op experience with Virtual Ventures was one of the highlights of my undergraduate degree at Carleton. It gave me the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause while also experiencing what day-to-day life in a professional setting looks like.”
As part of her role as a STEM Outreach Instructor, Farha led weekly sessions for the STEM for Girls Club in both St. Monica School and St. Mary School and facilitated hands-on activities focused on robotics and coding. The club provides girls with a supportive and empowering space to explore STEM, collaborate, and build confidence through problem-solving and creativity.
“Being trusted with responsibilities and working through challenges, both independently and within a team, pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect and showed me how impactful my knowledge and skills can be.
My experience with Virtual Ventures helped me understand my career goals more clearly and feel more intentional about pursing a path that integrates biological sciences and advancing treatments with education and community-focused outreach. It strengthened my interest in creating meaningful impact through scientific innovation and exploring the potential of coding and AI in biology and drug development.”
Farha’s advice for students starting their work terms: “Stay present, ask questions, and give yourself the time and space to learn, reflect, and grow through the experience.”