Students Get Work Experience While Studying at York University in Toronto, Canada

With nearly 10,000 international students from 175+ countries, York University in Toronto, Canada, is rapidly climbing in rankings in the Higher Education arena. With more than 200 academic degree program options and three unique campuses, York offers a diverse student experience - helping students create successful, rewarding futures and make a global impact.

At York University, there are many ways that students can prepare for the professional world while studying. Getting work experience on campus offers unique perspectives, setting students apart from others when applying for jobs.

Resumé Building with Co-op, Internships, and Placements

Students may be curious about what co-ops, internships, and placements are, and what the difference between them is. In the York University context, these are distinguished as:

• Co-op: Combines in-class learning with hands-on, paid work experience in a student's related field of study.
• Internships: Part-time and full-time internships help students gain a deeper understanding of their program and build their professional networks.
• Placements: Allows students to learn in a supervised, hands-on environment to gain practical experience with professionals in their field.

There are many exciting opportunities to help students find their specialty in their chosen field. When they are considering York for their studies, they will be able to explore what is available in their program of interest and get inspired by the possibilities.

The process of applying for co-ops, internships, and placements can be done directly through the student's program or Faculty.

Finding a Job on Campus

At York, students have the opportunity to join the Work/Study program and discover a variety of paid positions. Working on campus will help build transferable skills, like leadership and communication, while making meaningful connections with colleagues. There are three types of paid opportunities available at York:

1. General Work/Study: On-the-job training, guidance, and mentorship from supervisors while having the chance to explore several roles.
2. Leadership, Engagement, and Ambassadorship Program (LEAP): Engage in jobs within Faculties, colleges, programs, or York at large to make an impact.
3. Research at York (RAY): Take part in projects with faculty members and fellow students while supporting research on campus.

Working on York's campuses can help students get involved in the University community, feel more connected to campus, and create lifelong memories.

"Having a part-time job on campus through the work-study program at Glendon has helped me improve my communication skills through multiple discussions with future students and parents,” says Nathalie Morcos, a third-year political science student and student ambassador on the Glendon Campus. "I am fortunate enough to work with an amazing team who not only help me manage my workload to be able to focus on my studies but has also become my second family, right here at Glendon."

Applying for Positions

After browsing what is available at York, students are encouraged to work on their Curriculum Vitae (CV) which highlights education, accomplishments, projects, and awards, and their resumé and cover letter. It's always a good idea to have these documents updated and on-hand even before starting their York journey.

As they prepare to apply for positions as a student, York's Career Centre can support them in navigating the professional world. At the Career Centre, students can get information and examples on the difference between a resumé and a CV, writing an engaging cover letter, and more – helping them feel confident in their applications.

Preparing for the Future

At York University, student success remains a top priority both in and out of the classroom. Opportunities like Career Fairs help students meet employers who are recruiting talent in the short and long term. International partnerships with other institutions and a well-connected alumni community continue to support students with quality learning experiences.