13 AGCAREERS FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE Internships and co-ops are more than just a box to check on your degree— they’re genuine opportunities to launch your career. I learned this firsthand when I began my career as a co-op student at AgCareers. At the time, I had no idea that experience would lead me to a full-time role with FoodGrads and the Talent Solutions Team. But it did. Reflecting on that path, I can pinpoint a few key things that helped me turn that first opportunity into a meaningful career, and I want to share them with you. TREAT IT LIKE A REAL JOB (BECAUSE IT IS!) From day one, I treated my coop like it mattered, and it did. I showed up on time, took notes in meetings, and ensured I understood my responsibilities. Your co-op might come with a learning curve, but showing initiative and asking thoughtful questions demonstrates that you care about doing the job well, not just getting credit or a paycheque. SAY YES TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES During my first co-op with AgCareers, I was exposed to various parts of the business, from content writing to events. I said “yes” to as many tasks and projects as I could manage, even if they were outside my comfort zone. That willingness to learn and help made me a more valuable team member. Those are experiences I still draw on today. Saying yes also lets you know what you like and don’t like! BUILD GENUINE RELATIONSHIPS Building connections is one of the most underrated aspects of turning a co-op into a job. Be kind, be curious, and take the time to get to know your colleagues. These are the people who may vouch for you later, whether for a job at the same company or a referral elsewhere. Some of the connections I made during my AgCareers coop helped open doors to new opportunities, ultimately leading to my full-time work with FoodGrads. SHOW HOW YOU ADD VALUE In my second co-op with the company, I took what I’d learned the first time and focused even more on how to add value. I looked for problems to solve, proposed ideas, and made it a point to understand the organization’s objectives. When employers see that you’re invested in their success, not just your own, it makes a lasting impression! STAY IN TOUCH AND FOLLOW UP After completing both co-ops, I stayed in touch with my supervisors and colleagues. I sent thank-you notes, connected on LinkedIn, or provided quick updates about my career progress. These small gestures helped me remain memorable to them. So, when an opportunity at FoodGrads came up, I was already a familiar face for them. Co-ops aren’t just temporary roles— they’re steppingstones. When you show up with a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, and a genuine interest in the work, you’ll be amazed at the doors that can open for you. You might just find yourself building the foundation for a career you love—I know I did! 1 2 3 4 5 PHOTO: mustafahacalaki / DigitalVision Vectors via Getty Images START BUILDING THAT FUTURE NOW! Explore co-op opportunities at www.AgCareers.com or visit www.FoodGrads.com for more tips on starting your full-time career. UNLOCKING THE DOOR: TRANSFORMING YOUR CO-OP INTO A FULL-TIME CAREER BY SYDNEY MOHR, DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS & EVENTS COORDINATOR, FOODGRADS
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