10 Reasons Why You Should Pursue a Co-op Experience at Tufts Gordon Institute

Co-op experiences offer Tufts Gordon Institute students a multitude of benefits, from enhancing their education and career prospects to personal growth and financial support.

Tufts Gordon Institute is renowned for its wide array of graduate programs that help new or aspiring leaders in the field of engineering and technology: innovative programs taught by industry-expert faculty, such as our MS in Engineering Management, our MS in Technology Management & Leadership, and our MS in Innovation & Management.

Not only do these programs offer a stellar leadership education but also practical, real-world experiences through co-op opportunities. The Graduate Cooperative Education Program at Tufts, or Co-Op, integrates classroom studies with professional work experiences for up to six months in a field related to a student's academic or career goals.

Encouraging students to consider the benefits of taking a co-op experience, Kevin Oye, Executive Director of Tufts Gordon Institute, and Director of the MS in Innovation & Management program, commented that, "Co-ops are a wonderful way to apply skills learned in the classroom, practice people skills in a professional environment, and learn from experts. I recommend our students stretch themselves to select co-op opportunities that will challenge them, as they’ll not only learn the most, but have a rich experience to add to their resume."

Here are ten compelling reasons why Tufts Gordon Institute students should consider taking a co-op experience:

1. Real-World Experience

Co-op programs provide a platform for you to gain hands-on, practical experience in your field of study. This is an invaluable opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge from the classroom to on-the-job problems, crystalizing your learning and understanding.

2. Networking Opportunities

Through co-ops, you will connect with professionals in your field, building relationships that can be crucial for future job searches. These connections often lead to recommendations, job offers, and mentorships that will support you through a lifetime of career growth.

3. Professional Skill Development

Working in a professional environment allows you to develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management that are highly sought after by employers. Co-ops offer the opportunity to develop and demonstrate these skills in a real-world environment.

4. Career Exploration

A co-op experience enables you to explore various career paths within your field of study, helping you to make informed decisions about your future career. The best way to gain a clear understanding of a particular role or industry is to try working in it!

5. Improved Employment Prospects

Graduates with co-op experience often find themselves more competitive in the job market. Employers value the practical experience and professional skills that co-op students bring to the table.

6. Academic Credit

Many co-op programs at Tufts University offer academic credit, allowing students to make progress toward their degrees while working. This integration of work and study can provide a more comprehensive educational experience.

7. Financial Benefits

Co-op positions are typically paid, providing students with financial support during their education. This can help alleviate some of the financial pressures of college life and reduce student debt.

8. Increased Confidence

Working in a professional environment can significantly boost your confidence in your abilities and in what you have to offer to potential employers. This increased self-assurance can be beneficial in both academic and professional settings.

9. Personal Growth

Stepping out of the academic environment and into the workforce challenges you in new ways, contributing to personal growth and development. Co-op experiences can help you become more independent, resilient, and adaptable.

10. Enhanced Academic Performance

Applying classroom knowledge in a practical setting can deepen understanding and retention of academic material. Many students find that their academic performance improves as a result of their co-op experience.

Co-op experiences offer Tufts Gordon Institute students a multitude of benefits, from enhancing their education and career prospects to personal growth and financial support. By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can enrich their academic journey and set themselves up for future success in their chosen fields.

Read more about the Co-Op Program on the Tufts School of Engineering website by clicking here.