SUMMARY: While co-op and internship experience is not required, it is expected of our students. Gaining hands-on co-op experience is vital to rounding out a student’s education and making them the most competitive candidate possible for post-graduation goals.
THE VALUE OF EXPERIENCE
When students look to the future and identify what will enhance their ability to earn a full-time role, the number one thing employers will tell them is to get experience. We encourage students to engage in work experiences as early as possible to maximize their opportunities.
COOPERATIVE EDUCATION (CO-OP)
What is Co-op?
Cooperative education, also called co-op, is one of the best ways to earn significant technical experience in industry before graduation. Co-ops are typically a multi-work term agreement with an employer that allows undergraduate engineering students to alternate periods of academic study with full-time periods of paid work.
Flexibility and Control
In the Pigman College of Engineering, gaining work experience is an expectation, not a requirement. This means students have a great deal of flexibility and control over all aspects of the experience.
Benefits of Co-op
Co-ops allow undergraduate students to:
- Connect with employers
- Receive professional development training
- Earn a competitive salary
- Assess interest in particular areas of engineering fields and majors
We encourage students to strongly consider a co-op for at least one rotation during the school year. Although that may change the graduation date, this does not change the number of semesters of full-time coursework, and the benefits far outweigh any negatives of that change.
INTERNSHIPS
What are Internships?
Internships are another opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Interns can work both full-time during a summer term or part-time during a semester.
Expanding Your Portfolio
Often, students will apply to work with different employers each summer to expand their portfolio. These experiences provide technical training and knowledge of the work environment.
WHY IT MATTERS
Engaging in co-op programs and internships provides critical experience that enhances employability. These opportunities allow students to develop technical skills, build professional networks, and gain a deeper understanding of their field. Investing time in these experiences can significantly boost career prospects and prepare students for successful careers in engineering and computer science.
– Maddie Flandermeyer, Class of 2024 – Materials Engineering
“Taking a co-op helped me discover what I was passionate about and steered me into an industry that fit my values. My coop rotations helped me gain confidence and leadership skills that I couldn’t get in the classroom.”