Each year in March, the University of Windsor’s Co-operative Education and Workplace Partnerships office joins universities across Canada to celebrate National Co-op and Work-Integrated Learning Month, helping to promote the transformative power of work-integrated learning and blending academic study with real-world experiences.

“As we embark on work-integrated learning month, we are thrilled to showcase the experiences of co-op and internship students who are shining in their respective fields and working alongside employers from diverse industries,” says Kristen Morris, director of co-operative education and workplace partnerships.

“Work-integrated learning not only enriches students’ learning journeys but also fosters a deeper understanding of their field, enhancing employability and facilitating connections with industry professionals. Through this immersive approach, learners are better equipped to meet the demands on today’s dynamic workforce.”

She holds up as examples the fall 2023 co-op and internship rising star award winners who have exemplified innovation and excellence in their work-terms, each with a unique story to share:

• Sharjeel Mustafa, computer science
  Data science co-op at Swift Medical
• Chloe Crawford, engineering
  Manufacturing excellence specialist at Diageo
• Kelsey Marrese, business administration
  Marketing co-op at Peak Processing Solutions
• Jace Jacobs, business administration
  Communications co-op at Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority
• Maira Malik, engineering
  Process engineer co-op at Ford Motor Company

The co-op office will celebrate the success of co-op and internship students through March in DailyNews and on social media, delving deeper into the rising star award winners’ stories, the lessons they’ve learned and the impact they’ve made on their respective industries through their work-integrated learning experiences. Follow along on Instagram and LinkedIn.