Exploring and Preparing for Co-op
Use the guides below to read more about different options for co-op, and how we recommend you prepare for your first term.
Featured Resource: Get Co-op Ready
Browse tips on personal branding, take courses on Forage, use Big Interview to practice, and more!
Types of Co-ops
Most students apply for their co-op through NUworks, which has a variety of jobs across the country. However, co-op opportunities exist outside of the United States, and can also be “self-developed”. Learn more about these opportunities below.
Co-op Overview
Most co-op experiences are six month experiences with one employer.s.
Global Co-op
A global co-op lets you gain professional experience outside the United States.
Research Co-op
Gain experience, explore career paths, and build skills through a research co-op.
Searching for a Startup or an Entrepreneurial Opportunity
Founding a venture demands marketing, sales, business development, project management, innovation, and finance..
Self Developed Co-op
In addition to positions posted in NUworks, you can find or create your own co-op.
Pre-Search: Eligibility and Materials
Co-op Eligibility and Policies
There are a number of eligibility requirements and policies that surround your co-op journey at Northeastern, including specific procedural steps necessary for international students. Review the guides below to familiarize yourself before beginning your co-op journey.
Policy and Agreement
Before beginning a co-op search, students must meet eligibility requirements and agree to the standards and expectations of their college’s co-op program.
CPT and Work Authorization
International students on F-1 visas can participate in co-op but must obtain work authorization first.
Co-op Policy Guide
The guide above is intended for currently enrolled Northeastern students, graduate and undergraduate.
The Co-op Job Search: From Application to Offer
Featured Resource: Resume Guide
A resume is both a reflection of the work you’ve accomplished thus far, as well as a marketing tool for any hiring manager. Review the resources below, and remember that your co-op advisor and career team are here to help.
Once you’ve completed the preparatory course, intent to search, and had your resume approved, you’re ready to search. Browse below to find a strategy guide for searching, information on updating materials, networking, and preparing your digital presence.
Application Materials
Before you apply, the materials in your job application package should be up to date and polished.
Cover Letters
A cover letter persuasively relates your experience to a specific job, convincing an employer that your skills and background make you worth interviewing.
Events and Career Fairs
Attending employer events and career fairs is one of the most effective ways to connect with employers directly.
Evaluating an Offer
Receiving an offer means your hard work paid off!
LinkedIn & Personal Branding
Your online presence can either enhance or hinder your job search.
Search Strategy
This guide covers how to approach the search, where to look for positions, and the events that can connect you with employers.
Interviewing
An interview is your opportunity to present yourself as the best candidate for the job, and also your chance to assess whether the organization is a good fit for you.
Networking & Informational Interviewing
Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a co-op.
References
A references page lists the people an employer can contact to learn about your professional character, work ethic, and skills.
Working on Co-op
You’ve made it, gotten an offer, and you’re about to start your co-op. Your attention now shifts to maximizing the experience: Goal setting, professional communication, and being part of a team. Alongside these resources, remember that your co-op advisor and all Northeastern resources remain available to you.
Communications and Feedback
Professional communication is one of the most important skills you will use during your co-op search and on the job.
Goal Setting
Setting clear goals gives your co-op journey drive, direction, and development.
Housing, Transportation & Budgeting
Once you have a co-op, practical logistics like where you’ll live, how you’ll commute, and how you’ll budget become important.
Inclusion and Belonging
Your identity is part of what you bring to the workplace, and finding an environment where you feel a sense of belonging matters.
Wellness & Mental Health
The co-op search and the co-op experience can both be stressful, and taking care of your wellbeing is important throughout
Workplace Success
Once you start your co-op, the goal shifts to making the most of the experience and conducting yourself professionally.
Wrapping Up Your Co-op Experience
You’ve done it! Read on for more information on steps to wrap up your co-op experience smoothly, add your experience in NUSource,
After Co-op
As your co-op wraps up, there are a few important steps to close out the experience well and carry it forward.
NUSource
After you complete your co-op, log your experience in NUSource to network with other students and Northeastern alumni.