Brandon University Launches Record-Breaking Co-op Program Season

Brandon University’s Co-operative Education Program commenced its seventh season on March 15, 2024, welcoming a record 72 students eager to gain real-world experience. This increase in participation highlights a growing interest among students and reflects the confidence employers have in the program.

Students participating in the co-op program are paired with job placements that align with their career aspirations. Fifth-year chemistry student Kendal Giesbrecht, who is currently in her third term with the program, noted that the co-op has provided her essential industry-relevant skills. Giesbrecht secured positions with the Pfizer facility in Brandon and recently held a research role in Dresden, Germany.

“It gave me some really important industry-relevant skills that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to gain otherwise,” Giesbrecht said. She emphasized that her experience with Pfizer would not have been possible without the support of the co-op program. “It absolutely helped get my foot in the door,” she added.

Cora Dupuis, the director of the Co-operative Education Program, attributed the growth of this year’s cohort, which includes 50 new students and 22 returning ones, to a community that values experiential learning. “Co-op works best when a community rallies around its students, and Brandon continues to do just that,” Dupuis stated.

The program not only facilitates job placements but also provides students with professional development workshops to prepare them for their work terms. Third-year accounting student Judith Okpe expressed her enthusiasm for gaining practical experience. “I learned a lot in school. Let me apply that in a real-world setting and connect with people,” she said.

Alumna Dezarae Bodnar praised the program’s mentorship and support, which she credits for influencing her career trajectory. “Through co-op, I had experiences that showed me not only what I could do but also what was attainable for me,” Bodnar explained.

Fifth-year sociology student Kalin Contois also highlighted the importance of the program in enhancing his educational experience. After his work as a policy analyst with the government, he noted that the co-op provided him with a significant advantage. “I think it really helped me have a leg up, but also the experience of the day-to-day jobs to see if I actually liked it or not,” Contois remarked.

Acting provost and vice-president of Brandon University, Greg Gatien, emphasized that the ability to gain real-world experience enriches the educational journey. “Our students are gaining experience in ways that help them further identify aspirations, gain confidence, and connect with mentors,” he said.

The launch event attracted a diverse group of attendees, including alumni, new and returning students, as well as local politicians and business leaders. To support students in their professional endeavors, the co-op program offered free professional headshots to enhance their online profiles.

As the Co-operative Education Program enters this new season, it stands as a testament to the vital role of community support and student engagement in fostering career readiness and experiential learning.