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.
WHY CO-OPS ARE IMPORTANT
Hands-On Experience
- Co-ops provide a structured, paid experience where students engage in hands-on work within a professional setting. This real-world experience is invaluable for developing technical and professional skills, gaining industry insights, and making meaningful contributions to employers.
Enhanced Career Prospects
- Students who participate in multiple co-op rotations often have higher starting salaries and are more competitive in the job market. Employers highly value the extended experience and practical skills gained through co-ops.
Personal and Professional Growth
- Co-ops offer opportunities to build confidence, leadership skills, and professional networks. These experiences extend beyond what can be learned in the classroom, preparing students for the demands of their future careers.
Flexibility and Support
- While co-ops are not required, they are highly encouraged. Students have the flexibility to decide when to participate in co-ops and can pursue opportunities that align with their interests and career goals. The Engineering Career and Co-op Center provides support throughout the process, helping students find and apply for positions and maintain their academic standing.
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
- Discovering Passions: “Taking a co-op helped me discover what I was passionate about and steered me into an industry that fit my values.” — Maddie Flandermeyer, May 2024 Materials Engineering graduate
- Building Skills: “My co-ops and internships taught me what it was like to be an engineer. They are essential to the development of career and professional skills required for success in the engineering/technical world. Experiencing an internship or co-op is an integral part of your college experience and should not be missed!” — Grace Smith, May 2024 Electrical Engineering Graduate
- Gaining Confidence: “The real-world experience I gained from my co-ops and internships made me a more appealing candidate to employers.” — Gracey Kelley, May 2024 Chemical Engineering Graduate
- Translating Experience to Studies: “Internships helped me translate classroom learning to real world experiences. They taught me how to collaborate effectively in teams and communicate across cross functional teams.” — Shelby Breeze, May 2024 Mechanical Engineering Graduate
- Long-Term Learning and Connections: “I am a huge advocate for co-ops because I believe they are a great opportunity to spend a longer span of time in a role, during which you can learn more, connect more, and translate more into your studies. I’m set to graduate with so much experience that it has allowed me to already begin work as an engineer in my dream role.” — McKenna Schwartz, December 2023 Mechanical Engineering Graduate
- Beyond Classroom Learning: “Co-ops are so important as they allow you to gain valuable on-site experience that is just not possible when solely in a classroom!” — Emily Nagy, December 2023 Mechanical Engineering Graduate
- Essential for Career and Professional Development: “If I could provide one piece of advice to students it would be to acquire as many early external experiences as possible while you have the opportunity to in your academic career. These experiences are not only recommended by industry, they are essential to the development of career and professional development required for success in the engineering/technical world.” — Taylor Young, May 2024 Biomedical Engineering Graduate
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.”
Conclusion
Co-ops provide engineering and computer science students with unparalleled opportunities to gain practical experience, enhance career prospects, and grow personally and professionally. At the Pigman College of Engineering, we encourage students to take advantage of these valuable experiences to prepare for successful careers in their chosen fields.