“I chose to enrol in the Co-op Program because I liked the idea of integrating employment with my studies, rather than waiting until I finished my degree to find work relevant to it. The benefits I have already received by being in the Co-op Program are a lot of good advice about looking for employment, presenting yourself in job interviews and the expectations of employers, as well as practical experience in interviews. My career aspiration is to be involved in research in human immune function, to extend knowledge on the cause, prevention and treatment of the disease. I would recommend the Program because you don’t just get given a placement, you are also taught valuable skills for finding employment for yourself.”

“I wanted to gain work experience in the science field before finishing my degree, which is why I applied for the Co-op Program. The experience I have gained from my placement is really beneficial. So far, I have been shown all around the factory and been introduced to all the general processes and procedures. I spent time in each section of the factory, from the laboratory (micro lab and general lab) to the UHT processing area and the newly developed waste water treatment plant, even spending on day collecting milk in a tanker. I would recommend the Co-op Program because not only do you gain experience in a working environment relevant to your degree, but you acquire skills which are needed in the workplace and are not taught in your degree.”

“I wish to pursue a career in analytical chemistry or environmental science. I believe that the Co-operative Education Program will help me to achieve this goal by allowing me to network within the science industry. It will provide me with the opportunity to apply practical skills and knowledge covered in classes in a practical setting. The program also provides me with an excellent opportunity to deal with ‘real’ situations within the workplace, as well as giving me an insight into what I need to learn and why.”

“I have a great interest in working within the Chemical production of any sized manufacturing operation. I have a passion for seeing raw substances get transformed into useful products and resources. I believe that my participation in the Co-op Program will assist me greatly in getting skills, knowledge and experience that are required in the industrial sector that cannot be conventionally taught within a tertiary degree such as science.”