Brandon University’s Co-op Program Welcomes Record 72 Students

Brandon University’s Co-operative Education Program commenced its seventh season on March 15, 2024, with a record 72 students eager to gain real-world experience. This significant increase underscores both rising student interest and a growing confidence among employers regarding experiential learning opportunities.

The program aims to connect students with positions that align with their future careers. Fifth-year chemistry student, Kendal Giesbrecht, who has participated in the program for three terms, shared her positive experiences. Giesbrecht attributed her successful summer job at the Pfizer plant in Brandon, as well as a recent research role in Dresden, Germany, to the co-op program. She stated, “It gave me some really important industry-relevant skills that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to gain otherwise.”

In her view, securing a position at a global company like Pfizer would have been unlikely without the co-op’s support. “It absolutely helped get my foot in the door. I now am able to put that experience on my résumé. I have a year’s experience in both research and industry,” she added.

Cora Dupuis, the program’s director, noted that this year’s cohort grew by approximately 16 students compared to the previous year. She emphasized the value of community support in fostering a successful co-op experience. “Co-op works best when a community rallies around its students, and Brandon continues to do just that,” Dupuis remarked.

The program also offers professional development workshops, equipping students with skills necessary for their work terms. This year’s group consists of 50 new students and 22 returning participants. Third-year accounting student Judith Okpe expressed her motivation for joining the program, stating, “I learned a lot in school. Let me apply it in a real-world work setting, and also just to connect with people.”

Alumna Dezarae Bodnar shared her gratitude for the mentorship she received through the program, particularly from Dupuis. “Her mentorship and the structure of the co-op program helped me to recognize my own strengths and trust in her,” Bodnar explained. She reflected on how her experience in the co-op shaped her career path, emphasizing the importance of community-building and program creation.

Fifth-year sociology student Kalin Contois highlighted the necessity of gaining experience alongside his education. After completing an internship as a policy analyst with the government, Contois believes the co-op program will significantly benefit his future career. “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,” he noted.

During the launch event, Greg Gatien, acting provost and vice-president of Brandon University, stressed the educational value of hands-on experience. He stated, “Our students are gaining experience in ways that help them further identify aspirations, gain confidence, connect with mentors—especially those off campus—acquire real-life skills, appreciate academic theory in new and practical ways, and gain focus that will propel them into careers and rewarding lives as leaders in our community and beyond.”

The launch event attracted numerous alumni, current students, and local business leaders, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Additionally, students had the opportunity to have professional headshots taken, enhancing their online profiles and networking potential.

The success of Brandon University’s Co-operative Education Program not only reflects the commitment of the institution to experiential learning but also signifies the vital role of community support in shaping the careers of students.