“The Co-op Program allows me to experience first-hand what it is like to actually be employed in my desired field of work. This way I will be as prepared as I can be to make a smooth transition from study to work at the completion of my degree. As a result of the work-readiness training I feel I am well prepared to enter the workplace because I know the expectations of myself, my employer and my position in the workplace, both professionally and personally. My goal is to develop a career in Managerial Accounting, and I hope to come out of the Co-op Program more prepared than I ever have been in the field of accounting, holding skills such as leadership, communication, initiative and adaptability, as well as excelling in the practical skills that all accountants need. Co-op is the only internship program that offers the kind of opportunities that it does to undergraduate students in Gippsland. Being in Co-op is a fun and exciting opportunity and I wouldn’t pass it up for the world.”

“I enrolled in Co-op because I believed it would provide me with the experience and knowledge of how the workplace of my future career works. I also felt it would provide me with a stepping stone for employment after, and possibly during, my course by enabling me to meet employers and build a network of contacts in the industry. I am hoping my placement will teach me how to communicate easily and freely in the workplace whiles I gain hands-on knowledge of processes used within the industry. The Co-op Program is one of the few ways students can gain practical experience in a workplace in which they can see themselves working in the future. It can also help to answer any questions students may have about workplaces. Co-op allows students to apply what they are learning in their course to real-life situations, and to make new friends with colleagues.”

“I chose to enrol in Co-op because it will provide me with work experience in my chosen career path and allow me to meet new people. The benefits I have already received by being in the Co-op Program are meeting new people and receiving job interview training through the careers workshops. I am hoping my placement will provide me with experience relevant to what I want to do, and the chance to put the knowledge from my classes into action. I would recommend the Co-op Program because it gives you a chance to meet people whom you may never have met without doing the Program. Also, you get other training and paid work experience in your chosen area of study, giving you a feel for what work will be like when you finish your degree.”

“I believe the work experience I’ll receive during my time in the Co-op Program will be highly beneficial for my personal and professional development during my time at Monash University. This work experience, while providing me with the benefits of a source of income, will also allow for networking opportunities which I will receive as a result of liaising and working with local businesses which are among the industries I wish to work in after I have completed my studies. The Co-op Program has allowed me to develop friendships and ease the transition from secondary school into university via the social events and other activities the Program offers. I am hoping to gain a range of skills from my work placement which will allow me to use my newly learnt knowledge in a practical situation. Co-op allows students to combine all elements of university life as they are able to earn money, enjoy a social life, and gain important knowledge in their chosen field.”

“I thought Co-op would be a good experience as it combines class work with real work experience. I look forward to developing new skills and working with experienced people. I’m hoping my work placement will provide me with important skills and help me gain knowledge of requirements for employment. In the future I hope to become a Human Resource Manager.”