As a part of the Laurier Co-op Program I am currently working with social innovation leader, Capacity Waterloo Region.  My term at the Kitchener-Waterloo region venture has provided me with skills that are proving to be an invaluable asset.  Working with my talented team, I have learned the significance of web development while managing the essential aspect in marketing of social media.  Focusing on community growth and engagement, I am challenged every single day on the job.  And I love it.  The best part?  I have the rest of the summer to look forward to.  All this is thanks to the Laurier Co-op, a unique program looking to create even stronger ties with the social sector.

Laurier Co-op offers a vibrant Honours Arts/Science program spanning 30 disciplines including Communication Studies, Psychology, Philosophy, Religion & Culture, History, Political Science, Kinesiology/Physical Education and many more.  The students are available during the summer months (May - end of August) and must secure an approved position of at least 10 weeks/350 hours.   The Co-op students do not receive course credit for enrolling in the Co-op program and are primarily focused on gaining paid employment experience that will enhance their educational endeavors.  Wages can range from minimum wage (10.25/hr) and up.

Tim Stedman, Laurier Co-op Coordinator, says that "a unique aspect of our program is that Laurier Co-op utilizes a competitive-entry format when selecting candidates for admission.  Work experience, volunteer/extra-curricular participation, overall GPA (Grade Point Average) and performance in the interview are all criteria that we use to select the best overall 2nd year Honours students for the program.  Essentially, our candidates are pre-screened to ensure that we are providing the most well-rounded high-achievers to our valued employers."

The program is currently working with a handful of Arts/Science students who are actively seeking summer opportunities that will meet the minimum duration requirement.  I strongly encourage social ventures to further pursue this opportunity.  Developing this rapport with young individuals will prove to be mutually beneficial.  If you are interested in discussing a potential opportunity for a Laurier Co-op student, please contact Tim at tstedman@wlu.ca or (519) 884-0710 ext. 4638.  He'll be more than happy to assist you.