Arts Co-op program: Learn what you can do with your BA

There are so many options available to students to enhance their degree and university experience. Co-ops are unique because they allow students to immerse themselves in a full-time work experience.

Drew Thomas, a communications and archaeology student, and Amy Stratulate, also a communications student, experienced very different opportunities with the Arts Co-op Program, but both gained confidence, expanded their career plans and will be graduating with a Co-op Designation that indicates they have a year of relevant work experience. 

Not only will this help them stand out to future employers, but they have developed work habits and new skills that will transfer to their academics, making them more productive and focused.  

Drew Thomas:

Before joining the co-op program I was unsure of the career path I wanted to take. I believe that since I approached my co-op terms with an open mind, I was able to have interesting and diverse experiences. I started out as a computer lab instructor at the Calgary Drop-In and Rehab Centre. This position taught me about creative problem-solving and conflict resolution as well as exposed me to an industry I previously knew nothing about. I continued to work there part-time after my co-op because I loved the people and the work they were doing.

After this term I did a complete 180 and applied to work as a marketing co-ordinator for Travel Alberta. Actually, I had seen their Remember to Breathe ad and became intrigued by the work they did. In one of my classes I presented a critique of their ad’s rhetorical presentation, which I mentioned in my interview and probably won me some brownie points. I ended up getting a B on my presentation but I got the job! Travel Alberta gave me the opportunity to work in a new field where I gained knowledge and developed new skills in another completely different industry. I would continue working for Travel Alberta if the opportunity presented itself.

During my third and final co-op term, I had the chance to work on campus as a co-op engagement co-ordinator for the Office of Sustainability. Not only am I learning new skills, programs and industry information, but I am also developing connections with individuals on campus who I may not have met or interacted with otherwise. I cannot wait for where my co-op experience will lead me next.

Amy Stratulate:

I agree with Drew that it is important to enter into a work term open-minded and excited to learn new things. I always get first-day jitters at a new job so I was glad that my first work term was with a small team at a non-profit here in Calgary. I was warmly welcomed into a philanthropic organization and took on huge projects like helping organize one of Canada’s largest outdoor yoga charity events.

I was even more nervous entering my second work term because I moved to Ottawa to work for the Government of Canada. I didn’t know anybody but immediately felt like a part of the community. Just like my first term, I was treated like a real part of the team. I loved working there so much that I returned for my third and final co-op term! I know I will continue getting first-day jitters but I am confident that my co-op experience has prepared me for whatever career I take on after graduation. 

If you are a second year Arts student, be sure to apply to the Co-op program by Oct. 15. The application form and registration for either the Sept. 28 or Oct. 11 Co-op Information Session are available through CareerLink. Students in the Co-op program receive resume, job search, and transition-to-work assistance from the Co-op team and while most students work locally, national and international placements are possible. Check out the Co-op website for complete details.