Co-op & Internship Experiences
Cooperative Education (Co-op) is a formal program integrating multiple terms of work and academics. Students work in professional assignments directly related to their major. Co-op is designed to supplement classroom experience and to promote academic and professional development.
What is an Internship?
Internships are closely monitored work experiences that integrate degree-related knowledge to practical real-world experience. Typically, one-time experiences either during a semester or over the summer that have structured learning outcomes. Students gain valuable applied experience and make connections in their field of interest.
Steps to Search and Obtain a Co-op or Internship Experience
Meet with a Career Consultant as soon as possible. Schedule your Zoom appointment in Navigate South or contact careerdevelopment@southalabama.edu. During your appointment the following topics will be discussed:
- Review eligibility requirements
- Develop and refine your resume
- Identify your goals and interests
- What type of position are you seeking?
- When would you like to start working?
- Where are you interested in working?
- Create an action plan
Review the following to ensure you are fully prepared for a co-op or internship experience:
- Research companies of interest
- Expand your network
- Attend employer information sessions or career fairs
- Network with friends, family, or community contacts
- Conduct an informational interview
- Fine-tune your interview skills
- Practice your interview skills with Big Interview
- Assemble your interview attire
Search
- Attend career fairs and networking events to identify and narrow down the opportunities that interest you.
- Utilize search databases to locate co-op or internship positions.
Apply
- Begin applying for positions and target your resume to each opportunity.
- Before the Interview
- Practice virtual interviewing with Big Interview
- Research the company
- Write a list of questions to ask your interviewer
- During the Interview
- Greet the interviewer with a smile
- Be positive and energetic
- Speak confidently and clearly
- Ask when it is appropriate to follow-up
- After the Interview
- Write a hand written thank you note to the interviewer(s)
- Follow-up with employer
- Accepting the Position
- Once you accept the position, STOP your job search
- Request an offer letter
FAQ's
It is never too early to get started looking for a co-op or internship experience. The process can take several weeks, even months to complete.
- Start at least one to three semesters before
- Start earlier, if possible
