Co-op Success: Turning College Experience into Career Opportunity

Entering the workforce after graduation can be challenging. Along with the relevant degree requirements, most employers look for practical experience from potential employees. But how can you gain adequate experience while also studying at college or university?

Co-op programs! They are a great way to gain professional experience, network and potentially receive academic credit all at the same time.

Keep reading to learn what co-op programs are, their benefits for students and employers alike and how you can use them to optimize success in your career.

What are Co-ops and why are they valuable?

Co-op or cooperative education programs combine classroom-based education with hands-on work experience.

They have great educational value and can be put towards your overall degree. The amount of credits earned and classes needed to complete them will vary between institutions so it’s a good idea to look into your college or university’s co-op program.

There are numerous practical advantages to co-ops that jump-start your career. One of the best is that students can freely explore different career opportunities or streams without jeopardizing their trajectory. For example, if you’re uncertain or can’t decide between different specialties within your profession of choice, co-ops allow you to test-drive what’s right for you.

Students will also have the opportunity to network with professionals, promoting a smoother transition from post-secondary to the workforce. As the job market is increasingly competitive for new grads, knowing the right people can be equally as important as being fully qualified.

The benefits also extend to employers who choose to employ co-op students. The hands-on learning experience leads to more enthusiastic and engaged student employees. Engaged students bring with them fresh ideas and perspectives that can improve workplace functionality.

This symbiotic relationship empowers students as new members of the skilled workforce while employers avoid getting stuck with inefficient workplace processes.

Is a co-op the best choice?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of cooperative education, you may be wondering if it’s the right choice for you.

Here are few things you should consider:

• The type of program: Will you be earning credits, is the co-op paid, will it prolong your degree or certificate?
• Alignment with your personal interests and goals: Does a co-op put you in a favourable position post-graduation?
• What’s offered at your college or university: Are the co-op programs available to you truly beneficial?

There are two kinds of co-op programs: work term co-ops and internships. Both will allow you to begin your career early on, gain skills, build your resume and develop your portfolio or skill set. However, they differ in terms of income, duration and effort.

Work term co-ops are paid full or part time jobs that alternate every 4 months between work and study terms. Internships are less rigorous and often unpaid. They commonly take place over the summer and only occur once for the duration of your degree, resulting in less disruption to your studies.

Internships are placement based while co-op work/study terms require you to apply and interview as you would any other job.

Good questions to ask

If your institution offers cooperative education, look into what reputable programs they have to offer. Eligibility requirements, checklists and FAQs should be available to all students considering co-op.

Asking your peers who are already in the program what the experience has been like for them is a great way to get a more direct perspective and will help in making your final decision.

Aside from the traditional application process, I encourage all students to speak to their professors and ask about any opportunities that may exist.

As a psychology student, securing a volunteer or research assistant position at a lab is very competitive. However, through speaking with one of my professors at the end of class I was able to join his on-going research project as a lab assistant. I now have the opportunity to not only build my portfolio and gain experience but conduct my own research and network with established psychological researchers through simply chatting with my professor after class.

What to do when you land an opportunity

Since you’ve read this far, you’re probably strongly considering a co-op program and wondering how you can apply your experience to advancing your career. Here are some tips on making the most of it.

Get involved:

It is important to get involved and see how your coworkers function in the workplace. This makes it easier for you to integrate into your team and helps flatten the learning curve.

Get to know your co-workers:

Although it may be scary, I also recommend getting to know your coworkers and asking them any questions you may have. This assists in strengthening your network of professional contacts.

The accomplishments and references from your co-op can be included on your resume and cover letter when applying for jobs after graduation.

Don’t be scared to stumble:

Finally, don’t be afraid of making mistakes; everyone must start somewhere and it’s part of the process.

Final Thoughts

Cooperative education programs are great opportunities to jump-start your career while continuing your education.

They allow you to explore your options, decide if a certain career is right for you and meet established professionals. They allow for a smoother transition while encouraging employers to innovate the workplace. If you believe that co-op is right for you, remember to be open to new experiences and that your future is up to you!