How to Get an Engineering Co-op

Ep. 002 Stop Applying for Co-ops Until You Do This First


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Should you apply to as many engineering co-ops as possible?

Maybe—but not before you have a plan.

In this episode, we discuss why taking a strategic approach to your co-op search can lead to better results than simply sending out dozens of applications. You'll learn how to identify the type of engineering career you want, create a list of companies you're genuinely interested in, and build a job search strategy that fits your goals.

We also dive into one of the most important parts of the application process: your resume. I explain why every engineering student should maintain a comprehensive "base resume" and then tailor each resume to the specific job they're applying for. You'll also hear a real example of two students who took very different approaches to applying for co-ops—and the dramatically different results they experienced.

In this episode you'll learn:

  • Why having a career strategy matters before you start applying.
  • Questions to ask yourself about your ideal engineering career.
  • How to build a list of companies you'd love to work for.
  • Why searching for companies is often more effective than searching for job postings.
  • How to create and maintain a strong base resume.
  • Why tailoring your resume to each job posting can significantly improve your chances of getting an interview.

Have a question or want to share your co-op search experience?

I'd love to hear from you! Send your story or questions to [email protected]. Your question may even be featured in a future episode.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with another engineering student who's preparing for their first co-op or internship.

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How to Get an Engineering Co-opBy Brandy Maki