Students have the option of beginning as early as the summer following their sophomore year and are encouraged to seek internships after their junior year. Responsibilities should increase as the summer progresses with a goal of the intern working independently. While internships do not require a long-term commitment, many students are asked to return. Students alternate semesters of school and co-op employment, working a minimum of three semesters for the same employer. Students have the option of beginning as early as the summer following their freshman year or as late as their junior year.
Students generally receive college credit for co-op positions.
Each successive employment term should involve increased responsibility and complexity of work assignments and should correspond to the student's academic and work experience. Upon completion of each work term, both the co-op student and employer complete an evaluation. The initial agreement between the company and student is for a minimum of three employment terms. The Center for Forest Products Marketing and Management will work with you to fill your recruitment needs and to answer any questions you may have about this program. However, the co-op program is administered through the Career Services office at Virginia Tech.