Sending an email is the best way to reach busy professionals or businesses you can’t easily visit in person.
A well-written email shows that you are organized, professional, and respect the employer's time. It allows you to clearly lay out your skills and availability while giving the manager a digital copy of your resume they can reference instantly. It is an effective way to start a paper trail and get your foot in the door at offices, clinics, and larger companies.
Your email needs to be short and to the point. Spend time polishing your email before you send it.
Things to Note:
A Direct and Clear Subject Line - “Co-op Student Inquiry - [Your Name]”
Who are You?: Start with who you are and why you chose them.
“I’ve lived in this neighborhood for years and always admired your shop...” or “I’m really into [Subject] and want to learn from the best...”
Co-op Times: Mention your specific hours and the fact that you are fully insured by the school board (TDSB).
Resume Attachment: Always attach your resume as a PDF - Never use a Word doc or a Google Link (they might not be able to open them).
Follow-Up: If they don't reply in 2–3 days, send a follow-up email or make a phone call
Subject: Co-op Placement Inquiry – Tania Hanna (Earl Haig SS)
Dear Ms. Chen,
My name is Tania Hanna and I’m a student at Earl Haig seeking a Co-op placement for the upcoming semester. I am reaching out to you because I am an aspiring veterinary technician with a specific interest in the exotic pets and reptiles you treat at your clinic.
Between owning a corn snake and volunteering at the Humane Society, I am very comfortable handling animals and am eager to work hard to support your daily operations. I wanted to mention that since this is a school program, my WSIB insurance is fully covered by the TDSB, so there is no cost or liability risk to your clinic for hosting me.
I am available to work weekday mornings from 8:45 am to 11:30 am, starting September 15th through January 15th. I have attached my resume and would love the opportunity to meet and discuss how I can help your team.
I can be reached at (416) 123-4567, or you can contact my teacher, Ms. Thorpe, at (416) 111-1111 for more information about the program. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Tania Hanna
Subject: Co-op Placement Inquiry – [Your Name] ([Earl Haig Secondary School])
Dear [Name of Manager or Owner],
My name is [Your Name] and I’m a student at [School Name] seeking a Co-op placement for the upcoming semester. I am reaching out to you because I am very interested in [Field/Industry] and I have always admired the work done at [Company Name].
I am a hard worker and a quick learner, with a background in [mention 1-2 relevant hobbies, classes, or volunteer roles]. I am eager to work hard and support your daily operations however I can. I also wanted to mention that since this is a school program, the TDSB covers my WSIB insurance, so there is no cost or liability risk to you for hosting me.
I am available to work [Mornings/Afternoons] from [Start Time] to [End Time], starting [Start Date] through [End Date]. I have attached my resume and would love the opportunity to meet and discuss how I can help your team.
I can be reached at [Your Phone Number], or you can contact my teacher, [Teacher's Name], at [Teacher's Phone Number] for more information. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
When you are communicating with a potential placement, make sure you mention these three things. They are the "hooks" that get you the spot:
"No Cost to You": Remind them that the TDSB covers WSIB insurance and that this is an unpaid learning position. It's a "free" extra set of hands.
"I am Passionate": Employers don't want a student who just sits in a chair. Tell them why you like their specific business.
"I am a Hard Worker": Tell them you are there to work, not just watch. Mention you are happy to do the "busy work" (filing, cleaning, organizing) to prove your value.