Finding opportunities in experiential and practical learning at university can be hard to come by—especially if programs abroad are financially inaccessible to a student, or they’re in a program which does not offer co-op placements.
Being able to attend a post-secondary institution is a privilege that isn’t afforded to everyone, and there are positives to attending university and focusing on higher learning, as opposed to attending college.
However, opportunities for experiential learning are one thing the college experience has a leg up on over four-year programs at university. Not all programs at Carleton offer co-op.
Some programs offer internships instead as part of their curriculum, which involve several weeks-long placements in the field. But these minimalistic opportunities often come without compensation, leaving the student having to pay their own way so they can get an education through unpaid work.
Carleton offers many other valuable experiential learning opportunities, such as Stories North, which sends journalism students to report on communities in the Yukon. But these programs cost thousands of dollars.
For students who can’t afford to pay for plane tickets and accommodations abroad to get more practical learning into their university diet, opportunities can be limited. Carleton can make practical experience more accessible to more students by ensuring that every program includes paid co-op opportunities.
Feature image from file.
