Most job advertisements these days ask for applicants with experience. But how do you get that experience without a job?

Fortunately, many Fanshawe programs come with an on-the-job learning component that helps you get the work experience you need to jumpstart your career after graduation.

These work experience opportunities come with a variety of names… practicums, co-ops, internships, mentorships, work placements, field placements, clinicals, etc. But whatever it's called, the work experience component in your Fanshawe program is an opportunity to get the experience you need, plus a chance to establish contacts and networks in your occupation or profession. More than just a job, these workplace opportunities give you experience that is directly related to your Fanshawe program.

So how do you get started? First, it's important not to wait until your second or third year to start thinking about your career. The sooner you start, the better chance you have of graduating not only with great Fanshawe credentials but also with a resume that includes experience in your field, plus that all-important list of references.

Your first step is to find out what kind of work experience format is available to students in your program and to understand what it means. For example, a mentorship is very different from a co-op program and you need to know the differences and what it means to you. If you are in a co-op program, your program will be designated “Co-operative Education” in the Fanshawe Program Guide. Other programs that have practicums or field placements or clinicals will include this information in your program outline. Sometimes the work experience component is also an academic requirement and you must successfully complete the workplace requirements in order to graduate. If you still don't know, ask your program co-ordinator or student success advisor.

Then it's important to get to know who in is in charge of the work experience component of your program. They are your best resource in finding the on-the-job opportunity that's best for you and meets the requirements of your program. Assistance is available to help you locate suitable employment opportunities or to prepare a resume and/or portfolio designed specifically for jobs in your occupation/profession. Or you may need help with writing a cover letter or preparing for an interview. In some programs there is a posting service for employers so you can see what kind of jobs are available for students in your program and apply for those that interest you.

But remember, your workplace success is pretty much up to you. To make the most of the opportunities, you need to be mobile. Many of the best positions are not located in London, or in your home town—and they're often not anywhere near your residence or even on a bus route. Consider your work experience as an adventure---an opportunity to make new friends and assert your independence. Why not try out life in the big city, or even in another province or country? Fanshawe students are working everywhere!