Working abroad is possible! Over the past three years, many CO-OP students have completed one or more work terms outside of Canada in countries like the U.S., France, Germany, Japan, India and Ghana. For those of you up to the challenge, working abroad can be very rewarding.
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Working abroad offers plenty of advantages
Working abroad allows you to gain unique skills while broadening your horizons. It's a cultural experience that often gives you the opportunity to learn and/or perfect another language. On top of that, international experience looks great on a resumé as it enables future employers to see that you can adapt to new cultures and change.
Still not convinced? Have a look at what other CO-OP students are saying.
What are the steps to an international CO-OP work term? They are as follows:
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Step 1: CO-OP student abroad information session
Considering an international work term? Then this information session is a must! Given the challenges with securing an international work term, it is advised that you attend the session scheduled approximately nine months prior to your expected departure.
During this session you will
- learn about the types of international work terms that are available, how they are typically secured, and the criteria necessary for your job to be approved as an international CO-OP work term;
- hear from a CO-OP student that has completed an international work term;
- review typical costs (travel, insurance, housing), remuneration and funding sources;
- understand visas and work permits;
- learn about the various organizations that facilitate international work terms; meet a number of representatives;
- schedule an individual consultation: "Finding your own international CO-OP job."
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Step 2: Individual consultation: Finding your own international CO-OP job
Have you attended the CO-OP student abroad information session and decided to embark on the challenge of securing an international work term? Then the next step is to meet with a CO-OP professional development specialist.
During this individual consultation you will
- establish and structure your international job search plan;
- learn strategies to overcome the typical challenges with an international job search;
- gain access to the COOP Navigator Portal for international job search;
- connect with a CO-OP mentor that has completed an international work term;
- establish a schedule to meet regularly with your CO-OP professional development specialist.
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Step 3: CO-OP student abroad pre-departure training
If you are about to depart on your CO-OP international work term then this session is for you!
(Note: Students registered to the course DVM 4010 or other social sciences field placement internships must also attend the Faculty of Social Sciences pre-departure training. For information please contact: Madeleine Roy).
During this session you will
- review best practices for a successful arrival in your host country;
- learn about culture shock and intercultural communication;
- receive information and materials on safety and emergency procedures;
- complete the necessary documentation.
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Step 4: CO-OP student abroad post-work term training
Returning from your CO-OP international work term? Then you're ready for the CO-OP student abroad post-work term training hosted by the University of Ottawa International Office.
During this session you will
- learn about reverse-culture shock;
- discuss your CO-OP resumé and interviewing skills to best market your new knowledge and experience;
- share your experiences with other CO-OP students that have completed an international work term.
FAQ
See our frequently asked questions.
Resources
- Finding a CO-OP Placement Abroad workbook (PDF)