In my opinion...
Shellbie Wilson

Remember those high school presentations we went to in order to decide which university we wanted to attend? The enthusiastic Laurier reps told us how it's such a great school, how there are so many ways to get involved and what a strong co-op program was offered. I'm not disputing any of the above facts. They're all true. They simply neglected to mention that there's more involved than signing on the dotted line.

First of all there is the Laurier co-op program. Applications, as most of you know, are due in the spring and, from those, certain applicants are chosen for an interview in the fall. From this list a qualified, privileged few make the cut. Just a couple of examples: of 439 Business and Economics Co-op applicants, only 230 are offered the program, many of whom depend on the work experience that co-op provides. "I chose this university for it's strong co-op program," says a disappointed second year business student who fell under the axe. "Without that work related experience, I'm afraid I won't have the qualifications business' are looking for when I graduate." The Arts and Science Co-op wasn't any lighter in its cuts. Six English students, out of 20 granted an interview made the program -- 30 percent. As any student hoping to go into teaching or journalism knows -- experience is an asset you can't be without.

The problem lies in the fact that students don't find out they didn't make co-op until they are already a year into their program. It may be a good idea to take some courses and make sure that the major you're in is the major you want to pursue. Granted, this is a key reason in applying for co-op at the end of first year. However, for those that base their choice of university on co-op programs and find themselves without the option, they tend to feel shafted.

In contrast to Laurier's method of second year acceptance, or rejection, many Ontario universities have their students apply for co-op directly from high school. That way, a student knows from the beginning the program is there for them.

Then there are the extra-curriculars. There are innumerable organizations, groups, teams and committees at WLU. Good luck getting into them though. On one hand, it's incredible the number of student volunteers there are. This is great, unless of course, you're not already involved. The process of getting into the "volunteer scene" is not only one of patience, but frustration. To begin with there is interview after meticulous interview... Then you check "the list" to see that your student ID number is not posted. Some people are lucky, others it takes longer...a lot longer.

Some people are suckers for punishment and keep going. Others give up, discouraged from their efforts. Unfortunately, the harsh reality is that the ratio of applicants to the number of positions available is anywhere between three to one, all the way up to eight to one. Needless to say, the odds aren't great.

In terms of co-op, getting turned down doesn't necessarily signify the end of your career opportunities. Find a job related to your field on your own. Nobody's going to hold your hand in "the real world."

If you need a little direction there's always Laurier's Career Services. Another option is to volunteer in a related position. Get experience through your own initiative. As a student wanting to get involved in extra-curriculars you have two options: get frustrated and swear off volunteering altogether, or work your way in. Try to gain experience by volunteering for something that doesn't require a stressful interview process. Volunteer outside the school or even for things such as Laurier Day or the Winter Carnival Event Staff. They're fun and a great way to meet a lot of people. Then, of course when interview time rolls around again, swallow the urge to skip out and apply again.

Having learned from experience, you may even realize that a little hard work, a lot of originality and a genuine desire to get involved can get your foot in the door to just about anything - even at Laurier.