The Business Co-op Corner

Beyond Borders: Ciara Murrin's Guide to Co-op Adventures Abroad 

Written by: Khadija Ehsan, Program and Communications Support Intern (2023)
Updated by: Yagya Joshi, Work Integrated Learning Program Support Intern (2025)
      Trisha Seth, Program and Communications Support Intern (2025)

Why do you think it’s a good idea for co-op students to go abroad?

Ciara says taking a work term abroad can be life-changing! You can fulfill your dreams of travel, live in another country, and gain invaluable intercultural skills, all while gaining practical work experience. 

Global Learnings Work Abroad Program provides a refreshing perspective on your academics and enhances your future employability. In Ciara’s opinion, internationalizing your degree provides you with the competitive edge that employers seek, especially when entering the job market after graduation. It shows your willingness to step out of your comfort zone and develop field-specific skills on a global scale.  

“While moving abroad can be daunting, I’ve seen students return more self-assured and adaptable,” says Ciara Murrin, she has consistently witnessed “Many discover a newfound confidence in themselves and their chosen field.”

Today’s students are eager to add a ‘global’ dimension to their identity. They are not just looking to travel, they are looking for authentic, local experiences that shape who they become personally and professionally.

In Ciara’s experience as companies become increasingly more global, they seek job candidates with international experience. A local example would be Stantec, an Edmonton based company which now has more than 250 offices across Canada, the United States, and worldwide. These companies are operating over many international boundaries, so the more languages and experience with different cultures you can bring to a company, the more you can help expand its global reach.

Before you entered the School of Business, what were the most common questions you were asked from students trying to do a co-op abroad?

1. Where can I go?

Ciara encourages students to visit the Global Learning website for the most current information. Drawing from experience, there are numerous opportunities for business students in the U.S. and across Europe, encompassing Germany, Italy, England, in areas like business development, finance, marketing, and international trade. 

2. Do I need to know the language?

You don't need to be fluent in the language of the country you're heading to. Many global organizations offering co-op and internship positions have English-speaking roles available. Typically, students pick up some of the local languages during their stay, which is an additional skill they gain. 

3. When can I go?

Planning is essential. Ciara suggests a 6-8 month preparation period, where you can apply for funding, address residency arrangements, and manage additional background details. These tasks can seem overwhelming for any student. Fortunately, there is a great support system readily available on campus to help students find the right program and country for them. To view current internship opportunities click here.

4. How can I pay for it?

There are awards and scholarships created explicitly for students planning to work abroad. Global Learning in the Telus Centre is your go-to source for the latest information on available funding and program opportunities. 

Do you have any examples of students who have done a co-op abroad? Anything memorable from their experience?

Ciara has witnessed the transformative power of Global Learnings Work Abroad Program. One of the students she worked with did a work term in a small town in Tanzania. She worked at the N'ronga Women's Dairy Cooperative helping them to develop more climate-smart business practices and developing a marketing plan and website.

"She'd send me pictures and updates from her journey, and it was gratifying witnessing her growth - embracing new experiences, connecting with people, and even picking up some Swahili during her time there!"

Another student completed a finance internship at a Silicon Valley start-up in San Francisco. The founder of the company was from Alberta so the student made some great U.S. and local connections and she ended up getting a job with the organization after her internship was complete. 

Conclusion

Ciara says for Business Co-op students, the world is your oyster. International opportunities are open to all international and domestic students. If you're interested in internationalizing your degree, Ciara highly encourages you to speak with an International Internship Coordinator at Global Learning for advice on the most suitable program and the latest information on funding. 

If you're curious about how an international internship would align as a co-op term,  Ciara encourages you connect with her!