> Why take CO-OP?

(A student's perspective, by Lori Fazari and Katie Marley)

Taking co-operative education is very beneficial to a student's development. Not only does it give students experience in a field, it gives them a chance to try out a career.

Everyone knows that getting into college, university or the profession of one's choice is difficult, especially in today's economy. At some universities and colleges, the programs weigh a student's mark average equally with their experience in the field they are applying for.

Co-op gives students excellent work experience in a first hand learning environment. Not much experience is needed to get into the program, as long as students are mature and responsible as well as hold a decent average in school.

Students then spend one day a week in class and the rest of their time at their placements. Though they are only at work several hours of a day, depending on the co-op program, this simulates a real job.

The level of responsibility a student receives at their placement varies, but many students have witnessed surgery, had articles published in newspapers, taught classes and even produced television shows.

All this goes a long way towards giving students experience in the work field, and letting them see if they enjoy this type of work. After all, it is better for a student to determine they do not like working in a profession before they go to university or college to study the field.

Co-operative education offers many advantages to students. Though they are not earning wages, they do earn two to four academic credits that they can apply towards their diploma. It also gives students a chance to get out of classes and try something different. The co-op experience is also a lot of fun.

(A student's perspective, by Lori Fazari and Katie Marley)


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