The Business Co-op Corner

Co-op work terms can be challenging to navigate as you are exposed to new environments, new processes, a new culture and new people. The Careers and Work Integrated Learning team has some great tips to share to help you make the most out of your co-op experience!

“Since you will be mainly working in a beginner role it is important to seek opportunities and ask questions in order to learn more about the industry and work you will be doing later in life. The point of working the co-op work term is to better yourself and learn for your future career.”

- Ryker Saam, Careers & Experiential Learning Programs Support Intern 

“I think to make the most of your co-op is to be proactive, and open to learning! Because it’s a work term, there will be so many opportunities to try different things and develop your skills. I think it’s also important to make meaningful connections with your colleagues too - you’re growing professionally and personally, so making the most of it by connecting with people, being open to new learning opportunities, and taking initiative is key.”

- Pauline Tabanao, Experiential Learning Support Intern

“To get the most out of your work term, remember that you’re not expected to know the answers. Your team, and manager, will be more impressed with an ability to take initiative to figure things out, rather than already having an answer. So take initiative, be creative, and above all, expect to fail–and be ok with it! The sooner you can learn to be comfortable with failure, the quicker you’ll be able to grow!”

- Tiffany Baker, MBA Career Coach & Educator 

“Push yourself out of your comfort zone; whether that is introducing yourself to people who work in other teams, speaking up in a meeting, learning a new software program, or volunteering to plan a team social event. While it may sometimes feel uncomfortable, trying new things is the best way to get the most out of a co-op work term.”

- Melanie Tymofichuk, Work Integrated Learning Programs Lead

“Ask questions! Set goals for yourself along with a timeline, 4 and 8 month work terms can go by quickly, use your time well. If you see another area that you are interested in, see if you can shadow someone there for a half day, take initiative and make those connections. Finally, don’t forget to revisit your Learning Objectives to remind yourself what you wanted to get out of the experience!”

- Ciara Murrin, Work Integrated Learning Officer 

“Be engaged. The value of the work term is in more than the tasks you complete and the hard skills you gain. Take this opportunity to understand the people and the organization. Connect with your fellow interns and coworkers at every level. They each have valuable knowledge and insight to share about their role and personal career path that has the potential to help you shape your own career success!”

- Michelle Height, Career Education Coordinator