You are going to be so proud of me... I know my parents are. Thanks to my encounter with the Co-op Queen, I really am starting to understand what I can do with my degree.

So I'm standing in line at "The First Cup" grabbing a morning coffee (extra strong for my most favourite 8am class...ya right) and I notice Carol Wert, CnC's Co-operative Education Career Advisor. I knew who she was because of a recent class visit. I have wanted to know more about the Co-op program for a while but never got around to it. Now was my chance. I took a deep breath and mustered up a quiet "Excuse me, Carol?"

She flipped around, coffee in hand, big smile on her face, and exclaimed, "Hi!"

Seriously...what a sweetheart! She gives off such a warm and friendly vibe. I almost asked for a hug.

I asked if she had a minute to sit down and let me pick her brain about Co-op. She invited me up to her office (SS 232) and got right down to business. She explained that Co-op integrates my university course study with work experience. Basically, I would complete 3 work terms (4 months each) between my regular academic semesters. It would probably add a bit of time on to my degree, but "real world" experience and full-time pay, sounds good to me!

Not only will I get a head start on my career (whatever that ends up being), but I'll be able to practice job search strategies (putting that new resume to good use), build my confidence, network, and potentially travel. How awesome is that?!

The deadline for Communication and Development Studies majors to apply is December 1^st ... so I still have a little time. But I have so many interesting options, I might wait and apply next semester (the deadline is May 1^st). Plus, next year, the Faculty will offer Co-op opportunities to all the major programs in CnC.  

I'm excited. Getting the Co-op info (and Carol's business card) was definitely worth sneaking late into class.

Until next time,
ccGirl

Business Card Count: 2

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