More Information
Why Should You Take A Co-Op?
Do you like hands on experience?
Do you want to do more than what is offered at school?
If your answer is YES then you should definitely sign up for co-op! Now, you want to pick the right co-op for you. This could be a very challenging decision to make. So answer these questions first and then decide which co-op best suits you.
- What do you think you want to do in the future?
- What are some of your interests at school?
- Is there anything that you would like to learn more about that isn't taught at school?
Now that you have answered these questions, check to see if any of your answers fall under any of the following departments?
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Benefits of a Coop Program
- Cooperative Education is an experimental mode of learning that integrates classroom learning with experiences at the work site for credits towards a Graduation Diploma
- Cooperative Education is a partnership between the student, the school, and the employer. Students are able to strengthen their employment skills and gain valuable structured work experience and apply knowledge and skills learned in school to the worksite
- Cooperative Education assists students bound for College, University, or entering the workplace to make career decisions and to develop knowledge, skill and attitudes essential in today's society
- To assist students to better understand classroom learning practical application in real life situations
- To better prepare students for careers
- To develop in students an understanding of employer expectations in real job situations
- To increase student motivation
- To assist students in developing appropriate plans for post-secondary employment and/or education
- To develop in each student a positive self-image
- To assist students in developing, reinforcing and/or expanding marketable skills
- To assist students to better understand and appreciate the world of work
- To help students discover their true interests and abilities and test their aptitudes
Helpful Hints
- Before applying, understand that if accepted for a co-op, it may affect other course selections
- Consult a guidance counselor before choosing a co-op
- Have a list of reliable and professional references before applying
- Take time to fill out the application form. DO NOT RUSH! Make the application form as thoughtful and neat as possible.
- Prepare for interviews ahead of time if possible. It will help to make things run smoothly
- Dress appropriately for the interview
Student Comments
"Taking the chemistry co-op at the University of Guelph gave me a chance to meet new people and use equipment that I would not have been able to work with at G.C.V.I. The co-op really challenged me, and I enjoyed the opportunity to work hard and get the most out of my time in the co-op."
"Taking a co-op gave me valuable work experience that I will be able to use to my advantage when I am looking for a real job. It showed me how things work in the real world."
"I found that being a part of co-op, gave me a chance to try new things. There was a greater interaction with the teacher because there was less people in the class."
"When I took a co-op, it made me act more independent and responsible. I had to work really hard in the course to get good marks, and it was fun being able to still achieve credits, while not being at G.C.V.I."
"I created a resume after taking a co-op, and it was very useful being able to have work experience to improve my resume."
"Through the different experiences that I gained taking a co-op, I learned more of what type of interests I have, and what job opportunities might be available to me in that field."