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Personalized Job Search

Personalized job searching is an important part of the co-op journey and teaches valuable skills that will enhance your future career development and employability. When searching for personalized jobs, remember all co-op positions must be a minimum of 420 hours of paid full-time work per four month term. All positions must first be approved by the SCCE. The Personalized Job Approval form can be found on Avenue to Learn.


Where To Look?

  • Job Boards: Job boards such as Indeed, Monster and Eluta are great tools for finding posted opportunities. Only a small percentage of jobs are ever posted. So this should not be your only method of searching. Most tools allow you to filter your searches – look for “co-op”, “intern” or “student” positions, and/or limit to specific sectors. Remember to track all of the jobs you apply to this way.
  • University Faculty Directories: If you are interested in a research opportunity, searching through a university’s faculty directory can help you find a researcher whose interests align with yours. From there you can contact them and see if they have funds and the space to hire you.
  • Network: One of the most effective approaches (but the one least used by students) is taking advantage of your network. Letting family and friends know that you are a co-op student looking for an opportunity may lead to unexpected connections and recommendations. Attending events, such as company information sessions, professional association meetings, conferences etc., can expand your network and introduce you to a wider group of people in your field. LinkedIn is also a valuable networking tool that can help expand your connections. Taking advantage of organizations like Ten Thousand Coffees or the McMaster Alumni and Partners Advisor Network will connect you with experts in your area and allow you to gather information about various career paths and industries.
  • McMaster Work Program: Every summer McMaster offers hundreds of full-time jobs to students who demonstrate financial need. All Work Program postings go live on MOSAIC in March. Check out the details on eligibility for the program.
  • Studentships: A studentship typically involves summer work on a research project. There are many studentships available both here in Ontario and around the globe.