Finding it hard to gain the experience you need to kick-start your career? Volunteer work, internships, and co-operative education are great ways to gain valuable work experience and enhance your resumé.

Volunteer Work

Volunteering gives you many opportunities to make a difference in your community. As well, volunteers can:

• Gain direct experience in their areas of interest
• Develop valuable knowledge and skills, and
• Expand their networks of contacts.

To learn more, visit Volunteer BC. Also check Go Volunteer to search for volunteer positions near you. It’s an online database of opportunities in a wide range of industries and jobs.

Internships

Internships can also be an excellent way to bridge the gap to employment. Many of internship opportunities also offer some form of payment or compensation. Go to the B.C. Government Employment website for a list of provincial programs and ministries that offer internships.

Co-operative Education

Students who are looking to gain hands-on experience can also register in co-operative education programs. To find out more about co-op placements, visit the Learning section of this site.