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Seeking Co-op Students

Everything you need to find for your first or last work term!

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How many co-op students are there at SFU?

50% of placements occur in the last 6 weeks of the semester

10000
How will you stand out?

Featured

Finding the Right Fit: A Guide to Job Hunting

After reaching the end of her first co-op semester, Amanda, a Business co-op student, reflects on her experience and shares tips on how to find a position that is best suited to help you achieve your goals.

Featured

Finding the Right Fit: A Guide to Job Hunting

After reaching the end of her first co-op semester, Amanda, a Business co-op student, reflects on her experience and shares tips on how to find a position that is best suited to help you achieve your goals.

Read

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Co-op

Thinking about doing a co-op term but not sure how to have a successful experience? Starting a co-op term for the first time can be daunting. Here are a few tips to make the best out of your co-op opportunity. 

Read

10 Tips on How to Navigate the Hiring Process: An Insider's Perspective

Nisha’s second work term as a curriculum and programming assistant on a hiring committee for Career and Volunteer Services made her realize that with so many qualified candidates, decisions are sometimes based on the tiniest details. Here are Nisha’s 10 tips for how to stand out from other candidates and the reasons why employer’s value them.

Read

Five Resources to Access When Seeking Your Co-op Job

Searching for and adapting to your first co-op work term can be tough and quite unexpected. Jordan reveals five tested practices for boosting your resume and building confidence. 

Read

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Where do YOU need to start?

Whether you are on your first or last co-op, there may be some areas you would like to improve upon. Use the links below to quickly jump to the section most helpful for you.

 

Preparing to Apply

"I want to submit a great application that takes me to the next step."

Resume

Cover Letter

Job Description

 

Secure the Job

"I'd like to know how to ace the upcoming interview."

Interviews

Portfolios

References

 

Next Steps

"I got the job! What should I do next?"

Work Term Prep

Working Remotely

Workplace Transition

 

"I didn't secure a position yet. What shall I do?"  Still Seeking

It's all About Practice

Tools and samples designed to help you improve your applications, prepare for and practice your interview skills.

Interview Question Database

The IQD has 100's of questions and even a few general tips on asking and/or replying to questions.

OLC IQD

Sample Galleries

Login to browse through each gallery for inspiration.

Job Description Gallery
Resume Gallery
Cover Letter Gallery

Interview Stream

Practice and test your interview skills for your upcoming interviews with Interview Stream.

Interview Stream

Seeking Strategies

Visit the following sections for tips and inspiration.

Resume Gallery

View resume samples from students like you.

Cover Letter Gallery

Learn from how other students write their cover letters.

Interview Stream

Test your interview skills with Interview Stream.

Co-op Stories

Read stories from other co-op students.

Portfolios

Student portfolios employers are looking for.

Work Search

Tips on how to find your next job.

Learn More on Seeking Strategies

Tips from Co-op students, staff and alumni.

 

Scrabble Tiles spelling out the phrase "origins are usually messy"
Starting Your First Co-op at a Start-up Company

Being part of a start-up company can be scary enough, but doing it as a Co-op student who is brand new to the industry can be absolutely terrifying. This is what I learned about working for a start-up over the last 10 months as a Communication & Multimedia Associate!

A sign is displayed in front of Health Canada headquarters in Ottawa
Landing an Interview with Health Canada within 24 Hours

Are you currently in the process of securing a job interview? Melanie will take you on her journey and the series of events she took to not only reach out to her hiring manager, but also land an interview within the span of 24 hours. 

person writing on paper
8 Reasons Why You Should Consider an 8-month Co-op Placement

Emir was asked during his Co-op hiring interview if he would consider an 8-month placement. He was anxious about making it through 4 months, never mind 8. But soon enough the third month came around and Emir has a second chance to consider an extension. Here are his 8 reasons for why you should a Co-op extension.

diagrams of a website layout
The Job-Hunting Journey: Portfolios and Soft Skills

Are you a SIAT Co-op student in the seeking process? Read Michelle's article on the job-hunting journey, and how with a strong portfolio and exemplary soft skills, you can excel in your interviews!

A nervous woman
Why You Should Consider Applying to Co-op Jobs Unrelated to Your Academic Background

Like many other seeking Co-op students, Leslie struggled to find a co-op job that was relevant to her interests. While her friends were all able to eventually land jobs, Leslie started to feel more anxious and insecure about obtaining an opportunity. Here's how she turned the tables and found a job outside of her initial interests.

A youth sports club
The Pros & Cons of Working for a Small Non-Profit

Ever wondered what working for a non-profit is like? Further, have you ever wondered what working for an extremely small non-profit is like?In her article, Marisa describes what it was like to work at a youth sports-oriented non-profit where she collaborated with a small team of only three, and lists both the pros and cons of non-profit work. 

Person staring at two trails in a forest, separated by trees
Choosing a Co-op Offer Over Permanent Employment: How I Did It

Vicky Leung is a Business Co-op student who found herself having to choose between the allure of a permanent position at a start-up company, which did not match the job description, and a Co-op position that was everything she imagined. Read Vicky’s 3 pieces of advice when making difficult decisions in the co-op program. 

sun peaking through the trees
10 Tips on How to Navigate the Hiring Process: An Insider's Perspective

Nisha’s second work term as a curriculum and programming assistant on a hiring committee for Career and Volunteer Services made her realize that with so many qualified candidates, decisions are sometimes based on the tiniest details. Here are Nisha’s 10 tips for how to stand out from other candidates and the reasons why employer’s value them.

Ka Yiu Cheng
6 Tips You Should Know Before Your Next Virtual Interview

From trials and tribulations from countless interviews during her Co-op seeking journey, Ka Yiu Cheng shares some tips on how to crush your next virtual interview. 

Two men in suits and ties sitting down, shaking hands
The Most Important Trait to Get You Hired

Robert's boss shared a key lesson with him about an essential trait that can get one hired. What is that trait and how can you develop it? Read on to learn more from Robert.

Person typing on Macbook keyboard
Finding Light at the End of the Co-op Tunnel: Failures and Expectations in the 2020 Pandemic

Finding a co-op placement can be quite stressful, but if you stick with it you might just find your dream position. Read John’s article on persevering through a difficult job search and making the most of a co-op placement.

Lampa’s first time wearing her uniform after receiving it in the mail. A proud moment.
Lessons from My First Work Term in the Civil Service; During a Global Pandemic

Thinking about working remotely for your next co-op term? Political Science student, Maja Lampa describes her experience adapting to remote work during her first season with the Federal Government and how she found meaningful work in uncertain times.

Taylor Playing Softball
An Interview with Taylor Gillis, a Varsity Co-op Alumna

It's no easy feat being able to stand out from the crowd when job-seeking after graduating. For Taylor, her unique SFU background comes from her combined SFU Athlete and Co-op work experience. Read on to learn more about why she recommends fellow athletes to join the Co-op program.

Graduates throwing their caps into the air
WildBrain Co-op Award Kick-Starts 30 SFU Student Careers
Naomi Chao never thought it would be possible to intern at tech giants Microsoft, Adobe and SAP before she even graduated. Read on and find out how her co-op experience at Spexi Geospatial helped pave the way to her dream job.
Woman working on whiteboard
Whiteboard Interviews

Whiteboard interviews can be nerve wracking if you aren't well-prepared to communicate and present yourself in a confident way. Check out this edition of Interview Types to learn more about how you can set yourself up for success in a whiteboard interview.

The author's headshot
Working in the Corporate World as an International Student

Still not sure if co-op is for you? Chetachi explains why co-op was such a valuable experience for her and what it was like to work in the corporate world during her Economics co-op work term.

a person climbing up a mountain
How to Get Back on Your Feet When You Lose Your Job During A Pandemic?

Did you happen to lose your job due to COVID-19? Well, you’re not alone. Here are some tips and resources to help you get back on your feet in no time!

Man writing notes on paper at a desk with a macbook on the side
5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Co-op

Thinking about doing a co-op term but not sure how to have a successful experience? Starting a co-op term for the first time can be daunting. Here are a few tips to make the best out of your co-op opportunity. 

A head shot of Julie
Career Guidance For Rookies: A Q & A with a Coop Student

How would you explain co-op to high school students or how would you explain your journey to discover your career path? While a co-op student, Julie was asked to participate as a panelist for high school students visiting Teck Resource Limited.  She shares her experience as a panelist and co-op advocate in this Q & A summary. 

Josh and his colleagues
Imposter Syndrome and the Benefits of a 16-Month Internship at IBM

"So how do you overcome that voice inside your head, telling you that you’re not good enough and that it’s only a matter of time before someone finds out you’re a fake?". Read Josh's story to learn how he overcame the imposter syndrome during his internship as a designer for IBM. 

a black and white photo of the back of a graduate wearing a cap and gown
To Graduate or Not to Graduate?

What happens when you are six courses away from graduation but unsure of what to do after? Aleisha reflects on her rationale for extending her degree to do some soul searching and professional development before embarking on her next big adventure, post grad life.

Paull standing beside the Google headquarters sign
My Long Journey Through Computing Science

Paul takes us on his journey as a Software Systems student and how a field trip helped to inspire him to greater heights eventually, helping him to land his dream job. His journey highlights the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity given to us as students.

meeting with a small group of people
International Co-op: Is Not-For-Profit The Right Fit For You?

Are you looking for an International Co-op with a not-for-profit organization? Are you torn between finding a job you like and something that pays well? Are you wondering whether you will be able to gain valuable skills and knowledge from working for a not-for-profit? Continue reading this article for more information about how to look for International co-op opportunities with not-for-profits, funding scares, and takeaways.

Matthew Lee standing in front of a board with the Canada Revenue Agency logo in English and french
Taking The Next ‘Big’ Step: Working at The Canada Revenue Agency

Considering whether you want to work at a small company or a large organization? Try out both! Enjoying the support and intimate company culture while working at a small company, I was worried about my work going unnoticed and a lack of communication at a large organization. Find out how wrong I was!

White Room with a white desk that holds a small plant with pencils, a yellow mug, a Mac computer, and a keyboard.
Finding the Right Fit: A Guide to Job Hunting

After reaching the end of her first co-op semester, Amanda, a Business co-op student, reflects on her experience and shares tips on how to find a position that is best suited to help you achieve your goals.

Hayley and a RCMP vehicle
Top 5 Things I Learned Working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Ever wondered what it would be like to work with the Royal Canadian Mountain Police? Well, Hayley is here to share with us top 5 lessons they've learnt during their co-op experience with the RCMP! 

a workspace in a company
Small Firm, Big Opportunities: Insights into Working at a Small Firm

If you ever wondered what it was like working at a small to a mid-size accounting firm, read on for a few insights from my first co-op work term!

lottery balls falling down
My Adventures Working with the BC Lottery Corporation

Is working in an unfamiliar industry scary to you? Don’t know what to prepare before working in a co-op? Read on to find out more.

the author standing next to Canadian Western Bank logo
Moving From Retail to Corporate: Life as an Operational Specialist at Canadian Western Trust

For three years I worked part-time at TD Canada Trust as a customer service representative and eventually a personal banking associate.

Graph on a computer screen
Golden Opportunity: How I Accidentally Ended Up at a Fortune 500 Mining Company

What many students may not know is that it can be very disheartening to apply for jobs at first. You may not receive many responses. It feels almost as if all the positions you want have already been filled. 

Latest

Browse or filter for more tips on seeking.

Scrabble Tiles spelling out the phrase "origins are usually messy"
Starting Your First Co-op at a Start-up Company

Being part of a start-up company can be scary enough, but doing it as a Co-op student who is brand new to the industry can be absolutely terrifying. This is what I learned about working for a start-up over the last 10 months as a Communication & Multimedia Associate!

A sign is displayed in front of Health Canada headquarters in Ottawa
Landing an Interview with Health Canada within 24 Hours

Are you currently in the process of securing a job interview? Melanie will take you on her journey and the series of events she took to not only reach out to her hiring manager, but also land an interview within the span of 24 hours. 

person writing on paper
8 Reasons Why You Should Consider an 8-month Co-op Placement

Emir was asked during his Co-op hiring interview if he would consider an 8-month placement. He was anxious about making it through 4 months, never mind 8. But soon enough the third month came around and Emir has a second chance to consider an extension. Here are his 8 reasons for why you should a Co-op extension.

diagrams of a website layout
The Job-Hunting Journey: Portfolios and Soft Skills

Are you a SIAT Co-op student in the seeking process? Read Michelle's article on the job-hunting journey, and how with a strong portfolio and exemplary soft skills, you can excel in your interviews!

A nervous woman
Why You Should Consider Applying to Co-op Jobs Unrelated to Your Academic Background

Like many other seeking Co-op students, Leslie struggled to find a co-op job that was relevant to her interests. While her friends were all able to eventually land jobs, Leslie started to feel more anxious and insecure about obtaining an opportunity. Here's how she turned the tables and found a job outside of her initial interests.

A youth sports club
The Pros & Cons of Working for a Small Non-Profit

Ever wondered what working for a non-profit is like? Further, have you ever wondered what working for an extremely small non-profit is like?In her article, Marisa describes what it was like to work at a youth sports-oriented non-profit where she collaborated with a small team of only three, and lists both the pros and cons of non-profit work. 

Person staring at two trails in a forest, separated by trees
Choosing a Co-op Offer Over Permanent Employment: How I Did It

Vicky Leung is a Business Co-op student who found herself having to choose between the allure of a permanent position at a start-up company, which did not match the job description, and a Co-op position that was everything she imagined. Read Vicky’s 3 pieces of advice when making difficult decisions in the co-op program. 

sun peaking through the trees
10 Tips on How to Navigate the Hiring Process: An Insider's Perspective

Nisha’s second work term as a curriculum and programming assistant on a hiring committee for Career and Volunteer Services made her realize that with so many qualified candidates, decisions are sometimes based on the tiniest details. Here are Nisha’s 10 tips for how to stand out from other candidates and the reasons why employer’s value them.

Ka Yiu Cheng
6 Tips You Should Know Before Your Next Virtual Interview

From trials and tribulations from countless interviews during her Co-op seeking journey, Ka Yiu Cheng shares some tips on how to crush your next virtual interview. 

Two men in suits and ties sitting down, shaking hands
The Most Important Trait to Get You Hired

Robert's boss shared a key lesson with him about an essential trait that can get one hired. What is that trait and how can you develop it? Read on to learn more from Robert.

Person typing on Macbook keyboard
Finding Light at the End of the Co-op Tunnel: Failures and Expectations in the 2020 Pandemic

Finding a co-op placement can be quite stressful, but if you stick with it you might just find your dream position. Read John’s article on persevering through a difficult job search and making the most of a co-op placement.

Lampa’s first time wearing her uniform after receiving it in the mail. A proud moment.
Lessons from My First Work Term in the Civil Service; During a Global Pandemic

Thinking about working remotely for your next co-op term? Political Science student, Maja Lampa describes her experience adapting to remote work during her first season with the Federal Government and how she found meaningful work in uncertain times.

Taylor Playing Softball
An Interview with Taylor Gillis, a Varsity Co-op Alumna

It's no easy feat being able to stand out from the crowd when job-seeking after graduating. For Taylor, her unique SFU background comes from her combined SFU Athlete and Co-op work experience. Read on to learn more about why she recommends fellow athletes to join the Co-op program.

Graduates throwing their caps into the air
WildBrain Co-op Award Kick-Starts 30 SFU Student Careers
Naomi Chao never thought it would be possible to intern at tech giants Microsoft, Adobe and SAP before she even graduated. Read on and find out how her co-op experience at Spexi Geospatial helped pave the way to her dream job.
Woman working on whiteboard
Whiteboard Interviews

Whiteboard interviews can be nerve wracking if you aren't well-prepared to communicate and present yourself in a confident way. Check out this edition of Interview Types to learn more about how you can set yourself up for success in a whiteboard interview.

The author's headshot
Working in the Corporate World as an International Student

Still not sure if co-op is for you? Chetachi explains why co-op was such a valuable experience for her and what it was like to work in the corporate world during her Economics co-op work term.

a person climbing up a mountain
How to Get Back on Your Feet When You Lose Your Job During A Pandemic?

Did you happen to lose your job due to COVID-19? Well, you’re not alone. Here are some tips and resources to help you get back on your feet in no time!

Man writing notes on paper at a desk with a macbook on the side
5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Co-op

Thinking about doing a co-op term but not sure how to have a successful experience? Starting a co-op term for the first time can be daunting. Here are a few tips to make the best out of your co-op opportunity. 

A head shot of Julie
Career Guidance For Rookies: A Q & A with a Coop Student

How would you explain co-op to high school students or how would you explain your journey to discover your career path? While a co-op student, Julie was asked to participate as a panelist for high school students visiting Teck Resource Limited.  She shares her experience as a panelist and co-op advocate in this Q & A summary. 

Josh and his colleagues
Imposter Syndrome and the Benefits of a 16-Month Internship at IBM

"So how do you overcome that voice inside your head, telling you that you’re not good enough and that it’s only a matter of time before someone finds out you’re a fake?". Read Josh's story to learn how he overcame the imposter syndrome during his internship as a designer for IBM. 

a black and white photo of the back of a graduate wearing a cap and gown
To Graduate or Not to Graduate?

What happens when you are six courses away from graduation but unsure of what to do after? Aleisha reflects on her rationale for extending her degree to do some soul searching and professional development before embarking on her next big adventure, post grad life.

Paull standing beside the Google headquarters sign
My Long Journey Through Computing Science

Paul takes us on his journey as a Software Systems student and how a field trip helped to inspire him to greater heights eventually, helping him to land his dream job. His journey highlights the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity given to us as students.

meeting with a small group of people
International Co-op: Is Not-For-Profit The Right Fit For You?

Are you looking for an International Co-op with a not-for-profit organization? Are you torn between finding a job you like and something that pays well? Are you wondering whether you will be able to gain valuable skills and knowledge from working for a not-for-profit? Continue reading this article for more information about how to look for International co-op opportunities with not-for-profits, funding scares, and takeaways.

Matthew Lee standing in front of a board with the Canada Revenue Agency logo in English and french
Taking The Next ‘Big’ Step: Working at The Canada Revenue Agency

Considering whether you want to work at a small company or a large organization? Try out both! Enjoying the support and intimate company culture while working at a small company, I was worried about my work going unnoticed and a lack of communication at a large organization. Find out how wrong I was!

White Room with a white desk that holds a small plant with pencils, a yellow mug, a Mac computer, and a keyboard.
Finding the Right Fit: A Guide to Job Hunting

After reaching the end of her first co-op semester, Amanda, a Business co-op student, reflects on her experience and shares tips on how to find a position that is best suited to help you achieve your goals.

Hayley and a RCMP vehicle
Top 5 Things I Learned Working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Ever wondered what it would be like to work with the Royal Canadian Mountain Police? Well, Hayley is here to share with us top 5 lessons they've learnt during their co-op experience with the RCMP! 

a workspace in a company
Small Firm, Big Opportunities: Insights into Working at a Small Firm

If you ever wondered what it was like working at a small to a mid-size accounting firm, read on for a few insights from my first co-op work term!

lottery balls falling down
My Adventures Working with the BC Lottery Corporation

Is working in an unfamiliar industry scary to you? Don’t know what to prepare before working in a co-op? Read on to find out more.

the author standing next to Canadian Western Bank logo
Moving From Retail to Corporate: Life as an Operational Specialist at Canadian Western Trust

For three years I worked part-time at TD Canada Trust as a customer service representative and eventually a personal banking associate.

Graph on a computer screen
Golden Opportunity: How I Accidentally Ended Up at a Fortune 500 Mining Company

What many students may not know is that it can be very disheartening to apply for jobs at first. You may not receive many responses. It feels almost as if all the positions you want have already been filled. 

Co-op Student Experiences