Experiential Learning, Co-operative Education: Small to Medium-sized Enterprises is where it’s at for Bishop’s University!

By Charlene Marion – Co-op Coordinator, Williams School of Business at Bishop’s University
With the job market becoming more and more competitive, especially for new grads, co-operative education and internships are the key to securing that dream job after graduation. Not only that, it is the ideal time to “taste-test” a variety jobs over a short period of time to get a sense for what you really love to do. 

But how can students make the most out of their co-op experience? Three words:  Small and Medium-sized Enterprises! Often under- publicized by co-op offices, SME’s provide students with some of the most valuable learning experiences out there; the chance to dabble in a little bit of everything as opposed to large companies who tend to place students in highly specialized positions. Take David, a first-year student at Bishop’s University in the Williams School of Business, for example. He has opted for a position as an Entrepreneurial Assistant with an SME owner who will be launching a bricks and mortar and online store simultaneously this upcoming summer.  What could be more exciting than getting hands-on experience and mentoring from a successful entrepreneur during business start-up?  Better yet, think about all the experiences he will be able to add to his resume!

So, open your mind to SME’s, they have so much to offer students. My best advice - look for an organization that will provide an experience that is most beneficial for YOU while keeping one thing in mind;  It’s not only about where you’ve worked, but what you learned at that organization that will serve you best after graduation!