What’s the difference between an internship and a co-op placement? The terms internship and co-op are often used interchangeably, however, traditionally they are not the same thing. Internships are short-term and can be done on a part-time or full-time basis. They are often unpaid and are typically done for academic credit.

Co-op placements, on the other hand, combine full-time work experience with academics, alternating a semester of school with a term of work. Work terms are typically four months long but can vary in length. Unlike most internships, co-ops are usually paid and typically count toward your degree. So, at the end of the program you not only have your degree but also up to two years of work experience.

Who should participate?

Internships and co-op placements are great for everyone and are highly recommended to:

• Students without any work experience in their field
• Students doubting their decision about their field of study (it’s better to find out earlier rather than later that you need to switch into another program).

What are the benefits?

Internships and co-op placements allow you to:

• Try out a career to see if it’s the right choice for you.
• Get answers to any questions you have about the career or field.
• Gain valuable work experience and to strengthen your skills.
• Build your résumé (and with more students doing internships and co-ops, employers are starting to expect them on your résumé).

Plus they also:

• Give you the potential to earn more money once you graduate because they provide you with valuable work experience.
• Don’t require a long-term investment.

Finding the right placement

There are a number of different types of internships and co-ops, so choose wisely. Within internships alone there are academic internships (for credit), professional internships (paid or unpaid with no academic credit), internship exchange organizations, and internshipswith international  organizations. The latter two can be paid or unpaid and are typically not done for academic credit.

Co-op placements can be either mandatory or optional. This depends on the program you’re enrolled in. Placements are usually paid. To determine which is right for you, you need to do your homework. What do you want to get from the experience? Can you afford to work for free? Can you afford travel and accommodation expenses? Do you a summer internship? These are just some of the questions you need to ask to find out which opportunity is right for you.

How to Get One

First decide what field interests you and what your future career goals are. Then begin to research possible internship or co-op opportunities. Job fairs are always a good place to start, as they give you the opportunity to speak with recruiters. Companies sometimes visit campuses to find intern and co-op students. Check with your career centre to find out which companies are visiting.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, start sending out your résumé and cover letter. Remember to tailor it to the company and to have someone look it over before sending it out. Co-op placements usually require a more vigorous application process. Make sure to attend available lectures or seminars for co-op programs to decide which one is right for you. Visit your career centre to discuss your options with a career counsellor. When you know which program you want to participate in, then you can start polishing up your résumé and cover letter.
 

What careers offer internships/co-op opportunities?

What careers don’t? There are a wide variety of fields that offer placements. It is hard to find an industry or organization that is against hosting a co-op student or intern. Companies see these
placements as a vital opportunity to prepare students eager to enter the field for possible hiring afterwards. They also enjoy having someone else to do the odd jobs and mini-projects that
other employees may not have time to tackle.

Leave a positive impression

Remember, even if your placement ultimately leads to you discovering you’re on the wrong career path, you always want to leave your employer with a positive impression. So, conduct yourself professionally, work hard and remember to thank your employer for the opportunity.
 

Make the most of your internship or co-op placement

Do:

• Investigate the internship beforehand.
• Arrive on time.
• Focus on learning all you can from professionals about the company/industry.
• Listen carefully.
• Take initiative.
• Network.
• Ask a lot of questions.
• Stay busy.
• Find a mentor.
• Accept constructive criticism gracefully.
• Speak to people in all job positions.
• Take the job seriously.

Don’t:

• Be late.
• Dress too casually.
• Leave work undone.
• Wait for your supervisor to figure out you need a new task.
• Overstep your authority.
• Use the telephone or Internet for personal use.
• Seem uninterested in the profession.
• Be intimidated.

Tip: If you are unsure, make an appointment with a career advisor in your campus Career Centre. Advisors are a great resource. Not only can they help you determine which type of opportunity is
best suited to you, but they can help you with your application process and can advise you on making the most of your placement.

Myth:

All internships are paid and offer credits.

Reality:

Some don’t offer either so be willing to work for free! Students should be aware that some internships are not only unpaid but also do not offer a credit.

Did you know?

That some companies hire exclusively from their intern pool! So remember to work hard and make a great impression... if you do, a full-time job offer just might come your way.