Frequently
Asked Questions
Am I guaranteed a Co-op placement?
Although we cannot guarantee students a Co-op placement,
we have found that if students follow our suggestions and remain
in close contact with their assigned Co-op Coordinator, the chances
of successfully obtaining a Co-op placement increase. Many students
obtain a Co-op job within one or two semesters of active job searching.
Remember that your Co-op Coordinator is a tremendous resource for
you and he/she can assist you with your resume, interview skills,
and other general job-seeking skills.
How much will I earn?
Hourly wages are set by the employer. The pay rate
is usually $7.50 - $18.00 an hour. Benefits such as sick leave,
holiday, paid vacation, and health benefits are not usually offered
but may become available with certain employers. A few companies
may provide housing as part of your compensation.
What is my employee status?
Your employee status is usually as a student assistant/employee.
Your employment term usually terminates at the end of the semester,
but each semester an employer has the option to renew your employment.
Can I turn an existing job into a Co-op?
Often you can do this if you have approval of your
Co-op Coordinator and your academic department. You must schedule
an appointment with your Co-op Coordinator to review the requirements
that must be met .
- First, you must be fully eligible for the Co-op Program
(see Eligibility Requirements)
- Second, you must submit all the required forms to
the Co-op Office
- Third, you must submit a copy of your job description
to the Co-op Office
- Fourth, your job description and your application
file will be reviewed for approval. The most important issue
in converting an existing job into a Co-op is that the job must
be academically enhancing to your education. If you feel your
current job meets these criteria, then you may pursue converting
your current position into a Co-op position.
Are all Co-ops full time?
No.The traditional Co-op
is a full-time 6-8 months experience; however, many part-time (approximately
20hrs./week) Co-op positions are available.
Traditional full-time Co-op positions
require that students take a semester off from their course of
study. Undergraduate students are required to register in 12 Co-op
units for that semester; graduate students register in 9 units.
Part-time Co-op positions require that
students enroll in 3 to 6 Co-op units in their major for every
semester they have that position.
Please keep in mind that the number of units a
student will enroll in depends on his/her major and the requirements
of his/her academic department. Consult your Co-op Coordinator for
major-specific information.
What do I do after I am hired?
Even before accepting a Co-op position, many students
consult their Co-op Coordinator for further advice, particularly
when more than one job is offered. Once you have accepted a Co-op
position, you are expected to communicate the starting date to your
Co-op Coordinator. The Co-op Placement Packet includes information
which you will find helpful in starting a new job. Second, it contains
the details about the report required at the end of each semester
and other tips when starting a new job. Third, you will be enrolled
in the appropriate Co-op course units. (Note: the enrollment
process depends on the major.)
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