Finding a Co-op Job
In some ways, finding the employer that will provide the best co-op experience for you is like any other job search. You have to identify the company that can provide the mentoring and experience that will take you along the path to achieving your career goals. And you have to present yourself in a positive way, so that the employer will see the advantage in hiring you. Fortunately, the CDC provides the Career Navigator Series of handouts that will help you identify the best opportunity and package yourself for success. Mock interviews can also be scheduled to provide practice and feedback.
An important first step is to officially register in the co-op program. You will then have access to JobLink, the CDC's on-line recruiting system, where you can link to employers who are looking for co-op students, and read about those whose requirements you meet.
Through JobLink, you can submit your resume and cover letter electronically. There are three primary ways to connect with employers through the CDC. These are: Open Schedule Interviews, Preselect Interviews and Resume Drops. Please read each carefully to learn more about these options.
- "Open Schedule" Interviews. Open schedule interviews are conducted on-campus. Students sign up through JobLink, on a first come, first served basis. (Please review CDC Interviewing Policies before you begin the interview process.)
- "Pre-select" Interviews. To be considered for a pre-select interview, you must submit your resume to these employers during the designated sign-up period on RedHawk JobLink. Please note that the pre-selection process typically takes place up to a month before the interview date, therefore, it is important that you plan in advance and prepare to take part in the interviewing process. If you are pre-selected for an interview, each employer will invite you directly via a phone call, email or written correspondance. Once you have been pre-selected, you must return to JobLink to sign up on the employer's interview schedule.
- "Resume Drop" Employers that are not able to interview students on campus can receive student resumes through JobLink. Job descriptions for these employer's open positions can be accessed through JobLink. If your skills match the employer's needs, you can opt to submit your electronic resume through this process. Once again, be sensitive to deadlines which can vary by employer.
Additional Strategies for Scheduling Interviews
If you are unable to connect with the employer you'd like to work for through open schedule interviews, pre-select interviews or the resume drop, you may:
- call the contact person listed on the employer's "Detailed Recruiting Description."
- network with employers during the Corporate Career Days that are scheduled each semester. Check the CDC Calendar on your RedHawk JobLink Desktop for more details.
- attend employer informational meetings (again, see the CDC Calendar for dates) and speak with the employer representative after the presentation.
- go to the CDC Interview Center in DCC 335 at 8 a.m. on the day the employer is scheduled to interview. Ask the receptionist to give your resume to the recruiter. If the recruiter is agreeable, you may be able to meet, even though your name is not on their interview schedule.
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