At Stevens, students are given multiple opportunities to further their professional development and help secure a job upon graduation. These paths include the Co-op program, internships, and externships.
All students majoring in Engineering or Computer Science can participate in the Cooperative Education (Co-op) program at Stevens. In the Co-op program, students alternate studying on campus and working in industry starting in their sophomore year. Due to alternating periods of study and work, it takes five years to graduate with a bachelor’s degree. Students typically complete four to five periods of work.
To participate in the Co-op program, students must attend a series of informational meetings during their first year at Stevens. These meetings will cover the details of the Co-op program as well as provide help with professional development, including interviewing tips and resume writing. Upon completion of their workshops and their first year of courses, students will be able to officially join the Co-op program. From there, students are free to apply to co-op positions at participating companies, whether online or at one of the school-sponsored Co-op career fairs.
Based upon a survey from co-ops taking place during the 2017-2018 academic year, students earn an average of $17.64 an hour for their first work term, $18.58 for their second work term, $20.02 for their third work term, and $21.13 for their fourth or fifth work term. This makes the Co-op program an attractive option financially, not just career-wise.
Instead of participating in the Co-op program, students in all majors have the opportunity to participate in an internship over the summer. This is a more traditional path in which students work over the summer in a field related to their major. Many companies use their summer internship programs as “try-outs” for entry-level roles. For internships during the summer of 2017, freshmen and sophomores earned an average of $18.89 while juniors earned an average of $23.23.
Companies will host information sessions for their internships, co-ops, and full-time roles. Some companies will also interview students for roles on campus.
Finally, all freshmen and sophomores have the opportunity to participate in an externship. An externship is a one-day job shadowing experience during winter intersession. This experience allows students to learn about different industries and career paths. Companies such as Picatinny Arsenal, JPMorgan Chase, and First Derivatives sponsor externs.
Additionally, students can participate in research over the summer to gain experience. Students work alongside professors and gain experience in relevant topics. Pinnacle Scholars can participate in summer research using their stipend. The School of Business sponsors freshmen and sophomores to participate in research during the month of June. Additionally, all students can apply to participate in the Innovation and Entrepreneurship program where students work on a research project while participating in entrepreneurship workshops.
To get more information on any of these paths, visit the Career Center on the 6th floor of the Howe Center. Walk-ins are welcome from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Be First to Comment