What is an internship?

Definition: An internship is a short-term work opportunity that is offered to students and young adults to gain some hands-on experience. Most people start their internship experience during high school, college, or the first couple of years after graduation.

Period: An internship last any time from a month to two years. It can be part-time or full-time, paid or unpaid.

Field of work: internships are available throughout many career fields regardless of how big or small the organizations are. You can find internship opportunities in the government sector, for-profit and non-profit organizations.

What is an apprenticeship?

Definition: An apprenticeship is a period of training that allows you to learn a particular skill or set of skills. Apprentices can take classes while they are working, combining theoretical and hands-on learning. It is an approach for preparing workers for full employment through training.

Period: An apprenticeship can last from one to six years. Apprenticeship provides affordable pathways to high-paying jobs and careers. Apprentices earn competitive wages.

Field of Work: Career seekers can find apprenticeships in industries that require hands-on, technical skills such as information technology, finance and business, healthcare, hospitality, transportation, and manufacturing.

What is a Co-Op?

Definition: Co-Ops are typically work positions that involve multi-agreement between the student, employer and the school. Most co-op opportunities that offered during your time in post-secondary education. Universities usually expect students to complete at least 2-3 semesters.

Period: Most co-ops last for 2-3 semesters and can be longer. Often these positions are paid with competitive wages, giving students the opportunity to earn some income and support their educational path.

Field of Work: Co-ops can take place in many fields, from science, communication, design, to business

What are the benefits on doing an internship,

Doing an internship, apprenticeship or co-op can benefit you in many ways

  1. You will gain experience and skills in a real work environment. You get a chance to interact with other professionals and learn about how their professional career look like on a daily basis.
  2. You can determine one career is the right fit for you. After gaining experience and work on the field for a period of time. You should be able to tell if you want to continue to pursue your career goals or if you want to venture into a different career.
  3. Your training period can easily lead to a part-time or full-time position with a company that depends on your performance. This is a great opportunity to start your career path and get closer to achieving your goals.
  4. They allow you to test out what you learned in the classroom before entering the working world. After this experience, you will be confident in facing challenges, be curious to learn, and not afraid to make mistakes.
  5. Sometimes, working while going to school helps you support your studies better financially.