Internship / co-op Guidance

eurekameh · 10-09-2012, 05:36 PM

I have gotten an interview opportunity recently, although it might possibly be a co-op position. However, I'm still confused as to how a co-op is different from an internship in regards to future plans. I tend to think that co-ops are more for people who want to go straight into industry, but frankly I'm leaning a lot more towards graduate school, for which an internship or a research position might be of more use. Am I right in thinking this?

Also, I believe that co-ops generally take up a semester of time, in which I am not a fan of. Is this true?

I also don't have a lot of experience, if any at all, as I'm quite surprised I got a call in the first place. Knowing this is really my first time handling with work-related issues, what should my next steps be? What should I talk about in the interview if I don't have any experience to talk about?

OsuMEngineer · 10-10-2012, 02:11 AM

Well an internship is a one time thing. They usually last a semester to a year long. A co-op is alternating work-study. So every semester you would switch between working and school. They are usually about 3 rotations long and vary by employer. Both internships and co-ops can lead to job offers if the employer is impressed. I feel like it would be best for graduate school to do an internship because it takes less time. In an interview they will ask you about your resume and what you can contribute to the company. They will also ask about what skills you learned in school and about your experiences with conflict resolution and getting along with others. Hope this helps

Johnson181 · 10-10-2012, 02:22 AM

Quote:

A co-op is alternating work-study. So every semester you would switch between working and school.

This is not true at all schools. At my school (and I believe it's common for other midwest schools nearby) a co-op is simply an extended internship: a semester + a summer instead of just a summer. So yes, a co-op can be just a "one time thing."

OsuMEngineer · 10-10-2012, 05:44 PM

Well it's possible some schools don't know the definition of a co-op then.

colorado_mom · 10-10-2012, 07:23 PM

Terminology and programs vary a great deal from school to school. Seek guidance from your Career Center - they'll know the scoop at your school.

Good luck!