Co-op programs are one of the great features of Canadian post-secondary institutions. The program allows you to incorporate work experience into your degree and give you a head start on searching for future careers and companies! An added bonus, starting your co-op is quite easy, as long as you follow the steps below.
What is co-op?
The cooperative education programs allow you to explore your career opportunities within the duration of your studies. These work placements are a great way for you to gain experience in your field. And it will something that will be an asset to employers once you begin searching for jobs post-graduation. Additionally, the co-op program is accompanied by numerous opportunities to learn about resumes, interviews, cover letters and more! Understanding how to create stand out resumes and cover letters, as well as nail interviews will be crucial to landing jobs after graduating!
How do I prepare for a work term?
Co-op programs at universities follow a similar structure: a preparation term, a job-seeking term, and then a work term. Depending on your school or program, planning for your co-op placement may be as early as two semesters before you wish to work. In your preparation term, you will likely need to attend some mandatory workshops concerning resumes, cover letters and interviews. You will also likely meet with your co-op coordinator on a few occasions to review your resume and cover letter.
Once all of this is done, you will then be able to seek jobs for the next term. Jobs will be posted throughout the semester, so be sure to check the portal regularly. It’s important in this stage that you put lots of effort into your applications, and that you’re ready for interviews! Also, one tip we have is to be sure you speak to your co-op coordinator before each interview, as they have knowledge about the employer and can help you practice your interview responses. Then, the only thing left is to accept a job offer and work hard during your placement!
What are the benefits of co-op?
Co-op programs give students an advantage in the labour market, as they leave university or college with very relevant career experience from multiple different employers. Cooperative education students gain skills that would be impossible to learn in a classroom setting and have knowledge of their industry. Besides career experience, the extensive preparation involved in the co-op program means these new graduates have all the tools for writing compelling applications and presenting the best versions of themselves in interviews. All in all, if you want to be ahead in terms of finding a job after graduation, co-op is the way to do it!
Are students paid?
All co-op positions have salaries, however, salaries do vary depending on the company and position.
Do I need a work permit?
All international students will need to have a study permit, work permit and SIN number before beginning their co-op work term in Canada. Work permits are a responsibility of the federal government, and students should begin seeking this permit well in advance. Ideally, during their preparation term.
- For more information: Government of Canada – Work as a co-op student or intern
Cooperative education is a unique experience in the Canadian post-secondary education system and is worth taking advantage of! If you’re thinking about applying to co-op, meet with your coordinator and get all the info you can! Plus, make sure you start the process early! Better to be ready than struggle at the end. You’ll thank yourself when you start job hunting and have significant experience in your field already!
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