Twenty years and thousands of co-op students later, Dalhousie prides itself on the achievements made through co-operative educational programs. What better way to acknowledge practical learning than taking part in a week-long, nationwide celebration highlighting those who make co-op the success it is!
Facilitated through the Canadian Association for Co-operative Education (CAFCE), March 19-23 marked National Co-op Education Week. As the Student Coordinator with Management Career Services, Amani Abouchahine was tasked with extending celebrations to co-op supporters within the Faculty of Management. “I was blown away by the enthusiasm shown amongst the students, employers, faculty and staff at Dalhousie. They all showed great support, sharing all the advantages they’ve recieved through co-operative education.”
Amani kicked off the week by taking candid photos of students, faculty and staff showing their backing co-op programs. Dozens of images of our Management community holding “I HEART CO-OP” signs generated even more attention through our social media outlets. Showcased on Facebook, the amount of ‘likes’ and comments increased connections amongst students, employers, faculty and staff. Pictures say a thousand words and these images screamed excitement and pride for co-op program’s undoubtedly promising future.
Dalhousie students also embraced CAFCE’s national social media contest. The contest was extended to over 40 post-secondary institutions across Canada, encouraging students to answer a ‘question of the day’ on the CAFCE website (http://www.coopweek.com/). Over 5 days, student made over 3,450 entiries referencing their co-op work term experiences, as well as the overall benefits of co-operative education. Multiple students made reference to co-op as an on-ramp to elevate their career.
Extending celebrations of National Co-op Education Week to our employer partners, Management Career Services hosted our annual Employer Appreciation Breakfast on March 22nd at Halifax’s Prince George Hotel. Co-op student employees who nominated their supervisors for an 2011 co-op appreciation award were in attendance. Recieving certificates, employers appreciated the opportunity to be recognized by the University, as well as by the students.