How Riipen helped a University of Toronto student and a small business grow together.

For many students, transitioning from classroom learning to career preparation can be challenging. For Brandan Quach, a third-year student in the Digital Enterprise Management program at the University of Toronto, Riipen provided the perfect bridge. Brandan tackled real-world business challenges through a project with Integria Consulting, gaining practical skills, confidence, and industry insights.

“Riipen gave me a chance to work on real projects and learn by doing. It helped me build my skills, gain confidence, and grow through real experience.”

Building confidence and skills through real projects.

Brandan’s project focused on improving Integria Consulting’s online presence. He developed an SEO strategy for the company’s Wix website, conducted keyword research, planned content, and created social media graphics. While he had studied these concepts in class, this was his first opportunity to apply them to a real client.

"I learned how to do SEO for a recruiting firm, which was something I had never done before. It taught me how to tailor content and strategy to a specific industry, and gave me a better understanding of how SEO works in real business settings."

A mutually beneficial collaboration.

The partnership was valuable not only for Brandan but also for Samantha Bateman, President of Integria Consulting. Samantha shared that Brandan’s contributions laid the groundwork for a more strategic and sustainable online presence.

“As someone with limited experience in digital marketing, I found Brandan’s support invaluable—he delivered high-quality keyword research, on-page SEO recommendations, and a content strategy, while taking the time to explain each step clearly. His work has sparked new ideas and added momentum to our business.”

The Riipen project gave Integria Consulting a solid SEO foundation, including blog content, competitor analysis, and an understanding of how to continue optimizing their online presence. Beyond measurable outcomes, Samantha noted that collaborating with Brandan reignited her creativity and opened doors for future projects, including digital marketing, events, and app development.

Learning soft skills and professional networking.

Brandan gained technical expertise and strengthened essential professional skills: collaboration, time management, and client communication.

"Working with a real employer through Riipen helped me understand what it’s like to do real work outside the classroom. It taught me how to manage deadlines, take feedback, and stay organized. It also gave me a better idea of what I enjoy, like content strategy and SEO, and made me more confident about pursuing a career in digital marketing.”

The most significant takeaway for Brandan was the mentor relationship he developed with Samantha. Their collaboration gave him insight into the recruiting and consulting industry, helping him apply his skills strategically and build a professional network that will benefit him throughout his career.

Why experiential learning with Riipen matters.

Brandan and Samantha’s story highlights the value of experiential learning. Students gain hands-on experience, while organizations receive practical support and fresh ideas without the overhead of hiring full-time staff. For small businesses like Integria Consulting, Riipen offers a way to advance essential initiatives, spark creativity, and explore new possibilities.

What can you gain from using Riipen?

Benefits for students:

1. Real-world experience: Students gain practical skills by working on actual business challenges.
2. Confidence: Completing a real project gives students the confidence to pursue career opportunities.
3. Professional networks: Students build valuable relationships with organizations, mentors, and industry professionals.
4. Career readiness: By applying what they’ve learned in class to real-world situations, students are better prepared for the workforce.

Benefits for organizations:

1. Immediate business impact: Get projects completed that directly support business goals.
2. Access to emerging talent: Collaborate with motivated students eager to contribute.
3. Flexibility and cost-effectiveness: Leverage student support without full-time hiring.
4. Mentorship opportunities: Shape the next generation of talent while building a productive partnership.

A pathway for future success.

Brandan’s experience demonstrates how Riipen helps students build a portfolio of real-world work and prepares them for the workforce. Samantha’s perspective shows businesses the benefit of new ideas, practical support, and the opportunity to mentor emerging talent. Together, they exemplify the win-win potential of experiential learning.

Whether you’re a student at the University of Toronto or elsewhere, Riipen offers the chance to gain hands-on experience, develop in-demand skills, and work on projects that make a difference. For organizations, it’s an innovative, flexible way to achieve business goals while supporting the next generation of professionals.

If you want to learn more about how Riipen can support career development or business growth, explore the opportunities available through our platform today.

👉 For students

👉 For organizations 

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