Definitions and components of work experience
Work experience usually involves work and some performed functions by the participant.
Work experience can take several forms and involve different levels of participation.
Work placement – a time period of work experience, which can be paid or unpaid, that is part of the course and necessary to complete the program of study.
Internship – a short-term placement in an organization. Many study programs require from 2 to 4 internships to complete the program of study.
Work-based project – a specific set of assessed activities carried out at the school or at at an external work location.
Work shadowing – observing a staff member of an organization to understand their functions, responsibilities and skill requirements
Voluntary work – unpaid work, usually carried out in your own time and can be for profit, non-profit or charity organizations.
The benefits of work experience for new graduates or job seekers.
Undertaking work experience can help you to:
- prove that you can function within a corporate environment
- develop transferable skills
- gain useful contacts for networking
- understand the requirements of career options
- impress prospective future employers
- provide real CV content for employers
Making the most of your work experience
Further your aims and objectives by undertaking specific tasks during the work experience placement
Have a mentor or supervisor for assistance during the placement.
Ask for feedback during or after completing your placement.
Add value to your work experience placement
Create a career skills grid
define, specific, general and transferable skills
identify your current skills profile and skill gaps that require additional training and hands-on experience
For some academic programs, work experience is part of the curriculum. Foreign students who wish to participate in a Canadian co-op or
internship program must apply for a work permit as well as a study permit.
To be eligible for a work permit, you must meet the following conditions:
•You must have a valid study permit.
•Your intended employment must be an essential part of your program of study in Canada.
•Your employment must be part of your academic program, certified by a letter from a responsible academic official of the institution.
•Your co-op or internship employment cannot form more than 50% (percent) of the total program of study.
