Navigating to find a co-op, internship or a studying abroad opportunity can be difficult and sometimes there are questions that are commonly asked. Below are commonly and frequently asked questions regarding various topic areas. Don't see an answer to your question? Please contact us!
Co-Op Questions
Q: What is a co-op?
A: A work experience that spans an entire academic semester. Co-ops offered by our industry partners can span four to eight months but are tracked by academic semester in the College. You will engage in a full-time experience in your field, often resulting in more significant projects and responsibilities than an internship. Students gain extensive industry experience, develop technical and soft skills, and often extend their experience (via additional opportunities/post graduate job offers) through their participation.
Q: Will I get paid while doing a co-op?
We are currently researching this question and will have an answer shortly.
Q: Will I earn college credit while working on co-op?
A: Although the experience is not for credit, participating students are enrolled in the UConn course Cooperative Education Work Placement (CEWP 4297).
Q: How do I find a co-op?
A: Students must apply for their own co-op with the help from UConn’s Center for Career Development, departmental faculty, and the experiential education team.
Internship Questions
Q: What is an internship?
A: An on-the-job experience with a company, or other employer, in a field related to your academic major. Internships generally take place over the summer, but can also be completed during winter, or during an academic semester.
Q: Will I be paid while working an internship?
We are currently researching this question and will have an answer shortly.
Q: Will I earn college credit while working an internship?
A: Internship experiences are not for credit in any major (per College of Enginering accreditation standards)
Q: How do I find an internship?
A: Students must apply for their own internship with the help from UConn’s Center for Career Development, departmental faculty, and the experiential education team
Miscellaneous Questions
Q: Can I get free help to update my resume or write a cover letter?
A: Yes, the UConn Center for Career Development (CCD) can assist you. You can get started by visiting this Center for Career Development page.
Q: I would like to work with a professor on a research project. How can I make this happen?
We are currently researching this question and will have an answer shortly.
Q: I need to discuss my post-college career plan (job or grad school). Can I meet with someone to discuss my options and make a plan?
A: Yes. The Center for Career Development offers appointments in-person, virtually, and over the phone. All appointments are scheduled through Handshake. More details can be found on the Center for Career Development website.
Q: Does the College of Engineering have a career fair just for engineering students?
A: Yes, we have a career fair just for engineering students every spring; details can be found here at the Engineering Undergraduate Career Fairs page.