The co-op program, arguably the “bread and butter” of Northeastern, was a significant draw for me as a prospective student. Co-op is one of Northeastern’s experiential learning programs where students work full-time for 4-6 months, graduating with real industry experience before entering the job market. This, constant networking, and the chance to develop my professional skills earlier than I’d ever anticipated enticed me, as well as being able to genuinely experience my fields of interest and hone my career path through trial-and-error.
I accepted my first co-op for spring of my sophomore year as a Project Management and Marketing position for Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School in Boston. So much of the rewarding learning during co-op comes from jumping in and being uncomfortable, but below are a few things I wish I knew before, and found hugely helpful once I learned them along the way.
1) Yes is your new favorite word
Of course, a co-op is about learning from what is detailed in the job description, but much of my growth and passion during co-op came from additions to my role that I didn’t expect.
As I settled into my routine and got deeper into my long-term projects, managers and colleagues outside of my direct team began asking if I had any interest in certain projects they were operating; something that is common on co-op and might also be asked of you. Even if you don’t know what to say at the moment, say yes! This is an opportunity for development, to expand your network, and build your capital as a valuable employee. Say yes to the scary things and put yourself out there, because it is where you will grow the most.
2) The soft skills matter as much as the technical ones
Excel, Canva, social media operation: all technical skills I knew I’d need to be proficient in, and all skills that I sharpened to serve me well during my first co-op. However, what I didn’t anticipate was how softer skills like communication, timeliness, and professional small talk were larger parts of success in the role than I realized. Aligning with the work environment, creating a personable brand for yourself, and being eager to learn was incredibly helpful in building community and greater collaboration. Lean into the role from day one. Contribute your ideas, put yourself out there, and trust that you belong in the room. The more you engage, the more confident you will feel, and it will translate to your work!
3) Your fresh perspective is an asset
When I joined my first meeting with all of the other managers, the medical jargon went over my head, along with a lot of terms relating to the website revision project I was assigned. At the end of the call, I was asked for ideas and simply just tried to form a logical sentence. I left the call feeling behind (a feeling I’d revisit more than once), but this turned out to be exactly what pushed me to grow. This feeling is completely normal and expected as a co-op, and is actually an asset.
This feeling is what drove me to go home and research website marketing tactics that night, to learn new Excel functions another night, and continuously develop my skill set to become the best worker I could be. Once again, discomfort leads to growth!
4) Ask questions, but be a self-starter
On co-op, there will be many things you don’t know, and it’s great to ask questions. Early on, my first instinct was to ask for help rather than work through problems myself. Be inquisitive, ask the important logistical questions, but take a few moments to try solving problems yourself first. When you do ask, share what you have already tried. It is just as valuable to know how to work in the gray as it is to exceed when it’s crystal clear.
5) Feedback is a gift
One of my greatest takeaways from co-op was how much I value feedback. I never thought I would say that - I am not one who loves confrontation - but I learned how much I appreciate targeted feedback to perform the job better and develop as an employee. So, make sure you set up feedback practices with your manager, as it is super helpful in establishing an open line of communication, makes your work better, and makes you feel like a well-equipped employee.
Ultimately, what I would tell myself on day one of my first co-op is to be open-minded, inquisitive, and give each day your best. Co-op is a unique, limited window and what you learn about yourself as an employee will be entirely your own. I’ll be keeping these five personal takeaways of mine close to moving into my second co-op, and I hope these tips help you get the most out of your co-op, as well.
