Co-op Preparation Term

The first and most important phase of co-op is the prep term. During this period you’ll complete Cooperative Education Readiness Activities online in Brightspace where you will learn how to fine-tune a resume, write an amazing cover letter customized to the job, network with ease, and learn how to win in an interview.

International Students

For international students enrolled in the co-op program, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) require you to have a valid co-op work permit before starting your work experience. It is imperative that you apply for your co-op work permit at the beginning of your co-op prep term to allow sufficient time for processing. Co-op employers may request proof of your co-op work permit during the interview process. Please visit the International Co-op Students page for more information.

Key Tasks:

  1. Attend an orientation session – During the first month of your preparation semester, you will attend an orientation session with a co-op representative.
  2. Complete Cooperative Education Readiness Activities – Review learning modules and completed required activities.
  3. Prepare a resume and cover letter – You will upload your resume to Brightspace midway through the semester Co-op Student Advisors review all resumes and cover letters and provide feedback to you before being released to view co-op jobs on HireAC.
  4. Complete industry research – Create a list of the top 5 companies you would like to work for, and research them.

Cooperative Education Readiness Activities

In this Brightspace module, you will be guided through a series of activities that will prepare you for your co-op job search. You’ll learn co-op policies and procedures related to searching for and securing a work term opportunity. You’ll identify your strengths and transferable skills, and participate in workshop-style sessions that focus on cover letter and resume development, interview techniques, and job search strategies. You’ll also gain access to and learn how to navigate HireAC where employers post co-op job opportunities.

Topics Include:

  • Introduction to the Cooperative Education program
  • Recognizing your strengths
  • Communicating your strengths
  • Preparation for interviews
  • Essential steps of a successful job hunt
  • Workplace ethics and responsibilities

Workshop-style sessions include:

Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter package is the first time a potential employer will see your skills and experience, so it must be the best that it can be. In this session, you will learn tips and tricks on how to structure and fine-tune your co-op resume and cover letter to help you stand out in your job search.

Interview Preparation
The job interview is your first real opportunity to meet with HR or hiring managers at the organization you want to work for. Learn how to prepare for an interview by reviewing the four stages of a typical, professional interview. Find out how to improve your communication skills, develop interview response strategies and ask good questions in an interview situation.

Job Search and Networking Skills
Your network is the single best resource you have for job hunting. Build your networking skills to open other avenues to be successful in your co-op job search. Learn how to find networking opportunities, personalize your elevator pitch, and develop a job search strategy.