Admission to programs

Co-op is an educational program, not a job placement service. While no guarantees are possible, the Co-op Coordinator will assist the students in securing suitable work placements. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the student to find and secure a meaningful work experience. A great deal will depend on current employment demands, the student’s particular skills and experience and their ability to ‘sell’ themselves in a job interview. While it is unusual for students to be unsuccessful in securing a position, the following are some of the reasons why this may occur:

• Some may require additional interpersonal and communication skills to become employable;
• Some may not be able to consider out-of-town opportunities;
• The local economy may affect the ability to find suitable placements;
• Some may not be willing to adjust their expectations to their marketable skills.

No. The choice is up to the student. However, there are several reasons why students may wish to consider returning:

• they are assured of a job and need not worry about further interviews;
• the student may gain considerably more in-depth experience on a second work term;
• many employers look at their Co-op students as prospective permanent employees upon graduation;
• employers continue to offer Co-op jobs if their students return since their ‘investment’ pays off. This benefits the whole program.

Whatever the decision, it is essential that the student leaves their position on a positive note. Students will want a favorable reference from their employer.

No. However when students continually reject viable Co-op job opportunities that are related to their field, they take the risk of not being placed for a scheduled work term. Students are encouraged to be flexible in considering job options and to recognize that many potential learning opportunities cannot be fully assessed from a written job description and/or employment interview.

Students are expected to find their own employment with the assistance of their Co-op Coordinator, as this experience will prepare them for future job searches. Students receive instruction on such topics as job search techniques, preparing effective resumes, how to conduct themselves during interviews, and on-the-job success.

No. The Centre for Workplace Education (Co-op) will maintain contact with the employer and student periodically throughout the work term. Students are encouraged to stay in contact with the Co-op office and can contact us at any time throughout their work term.