Aid Programs
Career Resource Center
The following work programs are administered by the Career Resource Center at the Reitz Union. For more information, contact the Career Resource Center, First Floor Reitz Union, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611.
Cooperative Education
The Cooperative (Co-op) Education Program combines actual paid work experience with students’ academic curriculums. This program is career oriented: its primary purpose is professional training rather than financial assistance. Co-op experience is available in areas such as business, industry, and government.
To qualify for Co-op, you must have completed your freshman year with at least a "C" average. Co-op salaries vary, but students earn enough to allow them to pay immediate living expenses and often to supplement college expenses. Two work formats are available:
For more information, call the Co-op Office at (352) 392-1601; or go to: www.crc.ufl.edu/students/coops.aspx
Internships
Internships are professional, off-campus work experiences that assist students in acquiring the experience and skills that are necessary to be competitive in today's job market, allowing them to test the “career waters.” This centralized campus program coordinates the internship needs of employers nationwide with the needs of UF students.
Internships are usually for one semester, which makes them ideal for students unable to meet Co-op work-semester requirements. Part-time positions are available locally. Internship experience is available to most majors, can be paid or unpaid, and may be available for academic credit based on departmental approval. For information, call the Internship Office at (352) 392-1601; or go to: www.crc.ufl.edu/students/internships.aspx
Externships
An externship is an employer shadowing experience that typically lasts from a few hours to one week. Externships provide students with the opportunity to observe professionals and learn about possible careers in that field. This is a great option for students of any academic year who are unsure of their major or career goals, and want to "test" a career without a semester-long (or longer) commitment to a company, or who want to start networking with professionals in that industry.