Why do students choose to participate in International Cooperative Education?

International Cooperative Education is an excellent opportunity for students to gain professional work experience in their major and obtain a global perspective on business and cultures while earning up to six academic credits per semester. The program has helped many students clarify and expand their academic and career goals. Most importantly, International Cooperative Education allows students to experience life in a different culture. Considering the increasing global character of today's economy, the ability to understand people from different cultures and to work efficiently in the international community are necessary components of success. International Cooperative Education is an effective way to internationalize a resume and offers an exciting challenge to a mature, independent and motivated student.

Who can be admitted into the International Cooperative Education Program?

To take part in the program a student must be a mature junior or senior, have a GPA of 3.0, be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the College and have successfully completed a domestic Cooperative Education experience. To apply, students submit an International Cooperative Education application package that includes an application fee and form, an updated resume, an essay and two references. This is followed by an interview with members of the International Cooperative Education Advisory Board. If accepted into the program, the student must complete an assignment researching the host company and the culture, politics and economy of the host country.

What should I do if I am interested in learning more about International Cooperative Education?

Students can discuss individual plans, research possible International Cooperative Education opportunities and begin applying for positions in The Cahill Center (C-209). Students interested in the program are also encouraged to visit our web site at http://www.ramapo.edu/studentlife/cahill/index.htm.

Are the positions paid?

Most International Cooperative Education positions are paid. In almost all cases, students will need to pay housing and living expenses. The Cahill Center generally provide scholarships covering a percentage of the airfare based on the lowest airfare available, when College funding is available. These scholarships are rewarded AFTER successful completion of an International Cooperative Education placement. In some cases, employers assist with housing arrangements and/or stipends.

Where do students go?

Students have held positions all over the world and have recently been placed in Austria , Belgium , Canada , China , Costa Rica , France , Germany , Great Britain , Ireland , Sweden and Taiwan . We are developing new opportunities for students in Brazil , the Czech Republic , Italy and Mexico . Some positions require language proficiency or fluency. We are constantly working to expand the number of employer participants and will work with students to develop additional opportunities as appropriate. Students can also develop their own positions, but must receive prior approval from The Cahill Center.

Does The Cahill Center have a list of possible placements or do students find positions on their own?

Due to the ever-changing nature of today's global economy, placements are highly individualized. Many students are placed in international positions through the International Cooperative Education Program but some also develop their own jobs. In fact, we encourage students to research employer names and contacts, talk to professors about ideas, and use any and all contacts available! We will send up to five employer information packets and five follow-up faxes to employers from student-developed jobs. Many students find International Cooperative Education positions this way.

What is the next step?

Students must schedule an appointment with the International Cooperative Education Program Office at 201-684-7451 to discuss individual plans, begin the application process, develop a resume, research possible International Cooperative Education opportunities, and begin contacting possible employers.