Every year, thousands of students graduate from Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµand enter into the job market. When YOU graduate, how will you stand out from the crowd?
Enrich your Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµeducation by combining your student-athlete experience with Co-op. Complete three co-op work terms and receive a Co-op Degree Designation upon graduation. In doing so, you will gain practical paid work experience and develop employer contacts that can lead to a career after graduation.
Varsity Co-op Alumna - Taylor Gillis
Taylor Gillis graduated in the Spring of 2020 with a unique set of experiences.
Not only was she an Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµAthlete, playing for the Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµsoftball team for 4 years, but she also finished three Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology (BPK) Co-op work terms. She did her first and second work terms at Kintec and finished her last work term at ProMedicals. After graduating, she now works full-time for Kintec.
Varsity Students Testimonials
"My Co-op experiences have opened the door to the industry that I am interested in with hands-on experience, and a network of contacts who are already well established in the field."
Lauren Fridman
"Co-op is a great way to gain some practical work experience with the support of the Co-op staff."
Miguel Hof
"Through Co-op, I was able to unleash my repertoire of knowledge, skills and characteristics developed over my time as a student-athlete and thrive in the work place."
Olivia Aguiar
Are all co-op work terms paid?
Yes, it is a national co-op accreditation requirement that all co-op work terms are paid.
Can I still receive my athletic financial aid while enrolled in a Co-op work term?
Am I still able to participate in countable athletically related activity (practice) with my team while enrolled in a Co-op work term?
Yes, you are still able to train with your team however; you would need to discuss your schedule with your Head Coach. As long as you are enrolled in a Co-op practicum course you are considered a full time student and as such are eligible to participate in practice activities.
Am I still eligible for competition while enrolled in a Co-op work term?
Yes, you are still eligible to compete while enrolled in a Co-op work term but always check in with the Athletics Compliance Office regarding your eligibility prior to:
- the start of the season
- applying to Co-op
- your Co-op “seeking� semester
Can I take the semester off from training and competition in my sport while enrolled in a Co-op work term?
This is something that you would need to discuss with your coach. It will still count as a semester used towards your maximum of 10 semesters to complete your eligibility. Please see 10-semester rule .
Where can I find more information about Co-op?
Learn more details here.
When should I apply to co-op?
It is best to apply to co-op early, ideally after your first year of study at SFU.
Is it too late to apply to co-op?
Do not count yourself out. It may not be too late to participate in co-op. Please talk with a co-op staff member in your home program or faculty. Be sure to identify yourself as a varsity athlete.