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A group of diverse students standing against a stairwell representing SUNY Works

SUNY Works Benefits Students

Research shows that cooperative education and internships offer a number of academic and personal benefits to students.A group of diverse students standing outside under trees representing SUNY Works

Academic Benefits: improved learning, improved problem-solving skills, improved motivation to learn, improved classroom performance, higher retention rate, and increased ability to finance tuition
Personal Benefits: increased autonomy, increased self-efficacy, increased sense of purpose, increased self confidence, and increased teamwork, cooperation, relationship-building skills 

The track record for cooperative education in universities across the United States shows that students participating in co-ops are more likely than non-co-op students to:

  • Achieve a higher grade point average (GPA) while attending school,
  • Persist in their studies, including in STEM disciplines, 
  • Graduate with less debt,
  • Receive job offers from their co-op employer, and
  • Earn more money in their chosen career.
Why Should You Participate in an internship or cooperative education experience?
  • To acquire the work related experience that employers value.
  • Earn income that does not count against your federal financial aid.‌
  • Strengthen your candidacy for post graduation jobs or graduate school‌.
  • Earn a higher post-graduation salary compared to non-co-op or non-internship students.
  • Have confidence that your degree is relevant in the current job market.
  • Meet and network with people in your career field before you graduate.
  • Enjoy the advice and guidance from both a faculty advisor and workplace mentor.
  • Graduate with less student debt.
  • Apply prior work experience toward your degree requirements. 
LIMITLESS POTENTIAL..... LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES!
  • Interning in your field of study will allow your resume to stand out amongst your peers. 
  • Everyone you meet through your work experiences are now in your network of professional contacts.
  • Co-op will provide you with "paid" opportunities and progressive learning environments, integrating "theory" and "practice". 
  • Internships can be paid or unpaid!
How do I get involved?

Contact your Career Development Center on your campus or e-mail SUNYWorks@suny.edu

 

SUNY Works