Co-op and Experiential Education

The University of Waterloo is globally recognized as a leader in research, entrepreneurship and innovation. With the world’s largest co-op and work-integrated learning program, Waterloo offers students unparalleled opportunities to gain real-world experience while earning a world-class degree. 

But at Waterloo, education goes far beyond academics. 

Waterloo students, researchers and alumni are renowned for identifying problems and developing solutions for a better future. Aileen Agada, (BASc ’21, MBET ’24), CEO and co-founder of BeBlended, is one such example of Waterloo-grown talent. 

After being turned away from 15 hair salons because the stylists didn’t have the training or skills to work with her Afro-curly hair, Agada was inspired to launch a company that would solve the problem for other people in her shoes.  

Convocation marks a significant milestone for University of Waterloo graduates. This year, 14 outstanding students have been chosen to represent the graduating Class of 2025.

Their selection as valedictorians demonstrates their dedication and creativity within their faculties. Below, they share parts of their academic journeys filled with inspiring tales of overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities for growth.

For Eloise Fan, studying at the University of Waterloo was never about choosing a single path — it was about creating one that merged her passions for theatre and climate change.  

As she graduates with a joint honours degree in Environment, Resources and Sustainability and Theatre and Performance (co-op), she is being awarded the Alumni Gold Medal for outstanding academic achievement in the Faculty of Environment as well as the Departmental Award for distinguished academic achievement. 

As climate risks such as floods, extreme heat, and wildfires grow, commercial buildings are increasingly vulnerable — creating uncertainty for both property owners and financial institutions around which measures are necessary to ensure resilience. It’s a complex challenge that RBC is exploring with the next generation of climate adaptation thinkers at the University of Waterloo.

Many students dream of landing a job that aligns with their passions, inspires real-world impact or even motivates them to launch their own business. For thousands of Waterloo students, that dream has become a reality thanks to co-operative education (co-op), which combines paid work experience with earning a degree.  

Dr. Michelle Rutty

Bordering Lake Erie and extending across Norfolk County, Long Point Region hosts many internationally recognized protected natural areas and is a refuge for many species at risk.  

Chris Albinson, co-founder and managing partner of Canadian venture capital fund True North Fund and co-founder of C100, says Canada is at a critical juncture in its continuing evolution as a global innovator. He says the country and its tech leaders need to work harder to retain the best and the brightest.

“My wife hasn’t seen my eyes in five years,” the patient told University of Waterloo student Nina Yan on her first day working in an optometry practice. After suffering a concussion, the man was forced to wear dark sunglasses constantly to alleviate the pain of extreme light sensitivity.