When I started my co-op in the Cooperative Education and Careers Division, I found it extremely interesting to witness all the behind the scenes and hard work that goes on in UL. The irony of being the co-op student in the co-op office was not lost on me and neither was the opportunity to learn from everyone in the division while also offering a student perspective. From day one, everyone was extremely welcoming and helpful.
My favourite part of my role in the office was getting the opportunity to help other students. I was able to do this through answering the phone as well as monitoring the emails. But I mostly found interacting with students in person that came to the front desk and to in-person workshops to be the most enjoyable. Working in an office under a nine to five workweek was originally a new novelty to me and every day seemed like an episode from the office. I quickly became used to the structure and the days started to fly by.
Admittedly, I have always thought of myself as someone who is made for college and student life. I loved college and thought that any nine to five office job would be something that I just had to do, more so than something to look forward to. But I have enjoyed my co-op so much and settled into such a routine that I am now definitely looking forward to working in a similar environment when I finish college. This is down to not just the work I carried out but mostly due to how well I was treated by everyone that I worked with during my time in the Cooperative Education and Careers Division.
Before I began my co-op, I was a bit apprehensive as it was a compulsory part of my course, and I didn’t know what to expect and I enjoyed college so much. However, by the time it came towards the end of my seven-month placement, (which flew by) I was not only glad that it was mandatory, but disappointed that it was temporary.
My advice to any students starting that are beginning their co-op would be to embrace it. This means keeping an open mind, trying new things and moving with the change rather than against it. It’s a great opportunity to develop and get to know some really great people.
