![Jacob Forlin poses for a photo on a balcony overlooking the Brock University campus.](https://brocku.ca/brock-news/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/JacobForlin_12-1600x1067.jpg?x91846)
Note: The Brock Employee Feature is a Q&A-style series that aims to highlight those who contribute to the University’s positive working environment and make a difference in the campus community. The full series is available on The Brock News. Employees interested in being featured are asked to fill out an online form.
As a Recruitment Officer in the Goodman School of Business (GSB), Jacob Forlin (BA ’18) strives to help students get the most out of their university experience and time at Brock.
What is your Brock career story?
I began working at Brock in 2017 as a Student Ambassador in my fourth year. Though a lot has happened since then — including moving to Banff, Alta., and Melbourne, Australia — I have now been with Brock since September 2022. In between those years, I found myself managing restaurants, helping launch cafés in Australia and working for non-governmental organizations. But my passion for higher education prevailed and I couldn’t be happier to be at Brock.
What does your team do?
I work within the Communications and Engagement team for the Goodman School of Business. Our team is dedicated to providing the best experience possible to all of GSB’s students. The work our team does allows students to feel more engaged and comfortable at university. It’s important to remember that university isn’t just about education, it’s about the experience and memories you make during your time here, and that is what our team aims to provide.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
As a Recruitment Officer, I plan and host multiple events each year to provide prospective high school students from all over the world a glimpse into life as a GSB undergraduate student. The most rewarding aspect is when you see the excitement in a prospective student’s face, and of course finding out they accepted their offer.
What do you like about working at Brock?
The people, 100 per cent. I have been very fortunate in my years here at Brock to work with many amazing individuals. Seeing how passionate everyone on the team is continues to push me each and every day.
What are you involved in at Brock outside of your role?
I am currently a part-time student taking business courses so that I may continuously challenge myself mentally and upgrade my skills.
What was your first job?
My first job ever was in Grade 9 working at Maid of the Mist. I worked multiple roles, including handing out coats, working on the dock and cleaning the yard. This taught me early the value of teamwork.
What do you do for fun?
I also have my own photography business. I spend most weekends doing wedding, maternity, engagement and family photoshoots. If I’m not booked, you’ll find me at Henley Island in my kayak.
Where is your favourite place to visit or spend time in Niagara?
If we’re talking food it has to be Danny’s Sushi in Niagara Falls. If we’re talking serenity, I love walking around Port Dalhousie with my wife Brittany and our golden retriever Sophie.
What do you do for self-care to maintain positive mental health?
I have therapy every two weeks and I go to the gym six days a week. I honestly think everyone should see a therapist at least once a month. It’s a great way to check in on yourself and reflect.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Own up to your mistakes, learn and move on from them. Issues cannot be resolved if you are trying to hide the fact that you made a mistake. No one is perfect, and mistakes are inevitable, but learn how to mitigate them and move on from there.