Media and publications

A University of Waterloo student shares how she earned a spot in the highly competitive software engineering program, choosing Waterloo in large part because of its renowned co-op education and the paid, real-world work experience it offers. After navigating a rigorous application process, she has completed multiple co-op work terms in quality assurance and software development, gaining practical skills and professional connections that prepare her for a career in tech. Her journey highlights how Waterloo’s co-op model helps bridge academic learning with hands-on industry experience.

An Indian student, Pallavi Thapar, says she chose the University of Waterloo because of its elite co-op program, which provided paid work terms and real-world experience while she earned her degree. Through her co-op placements in psychology and marketing, she built a professional network, refined her career goals and gained confidence navigating Canada’s highly competitive job market. Her journey reflects the importance of strategic planning, adaptability and work-integrated learning for international students seeking long-term success.

University of Waterloo Associate Professor of Economics Joel Blit warns that AI may be displacing entry-level programming jobs, making it harder for new computer science grads to land their first role. He says the skills students build before graduation, particularly through co-op work terms are now more important than ever. Despite the tough market, Waterloo data shows that 96% of its CS students still find a job within six months—something Blit attributes largely to the strength of the university’s co-op program.