Managing students as a part of Case School of Engineering’s Cooperative Education (Co-op) Program takes time, but leads to meaningful relationships for both employers and students. While your company will be better positioned to achieve your goals, students will gain skills and valuable industry experience that can help progress their careers.
Preparing for a Co-op Student
Once a student has accepted your job posting in Handshake, the university’s career management platform, there are some basic guidelines that can help you prepare.
If the student is relocating, offer some form of housing assistance, such as a list of apartment complexes in a safe area, relocation assistance or a housing stipend.
Then, before the student’s first day, provide information on logistics including:
- Driving directions
- Entrance location
- Arrival time
- Dress code
- General overview of the first day
- Anything they may need to bring with them (i.e., paperwork, identification, packed lunch, etc.)
Guidelines for Onboarding
When your co-op student arrives on site, there are some basic guidelines that can help ensure a smooth transition:
- Welcome your student and introduce them to their new colleagues
- Review your student's learning objectives
- Share expectations, both for project goals and the workplace in general (standard working hours, behaviors, attire, etc.)
- Explain your company's organization and leadership structure
- Outline relevant safety protocols
- Begin training
- Familiarize your student with the projects they will be working on and the people they will be working with
Expectations Throughout the Co-op Term
Once the student’s co-op term is underway, be sure to take the following actions to ensure continued success:
- Provide regular training
- Provide formal and informal feedback
- Schedule weekly 1:1 meetings
- Allow the student time to network or shadow other professionals, encouraging them to participate in professional and organizational activities
- Address any concerns or issues in a timely manner by contacting the co-op director, Genine Apidone (genine.apidone@case.edu), for additional support
- If appropriate with your company, support social opportunities for the student to attend (ie: company picnics, outings, etc)
How to End on a High Note
At the end of a student’s co-op term, there are several final steps needed to complete the experience:
- Allow your student an opportunity to present a final presentation highlighting their projects and accomplishments
- Fill out evaluations regarding your experience with your co-op student