National Technical Institute for the Deaf

Everything you always wanted to know about co-ops

Is a co-op experience required?

Yes, a cooperative work experience is required for your major. It helps you to prepare for the competitive working world after you graduate.

• You must register for your co-op in SIS AND report it in RIT Job Zone.
• There is no tuition fee for your co-op and you receive no credit, but it is required for your degree and will appear on your transcript.
• Some paperwork is required. See your academic chairperson, co-op coordinator or employment advisor for specific forms required for your major.

What about pay?

A co-op should be a paid experience at competitive wages for a temporary job.

• Pay can vary, depending on the type of employer, job duties, your qualifications, and location of the co-op.
• If you can only find a co-op without pay (volunteer position), it is very important for you to ask your chairperson for approval.
• If you receive SSI and/or SSDI, and get a paying co-op, be sure to discuss with your Social Security representative how to handle your SSI/SSDI payments for the time you are on co-op.

When you get a co-op, share your good news with your employment advisor, chairperson and/or co-op coordinator.

It is important that you provide the following information for Job Zone so that your supervisor will receive an on-line evaluation to complete on your performance:

• Name of company, complete mail and e-mail addresses
• Name, job title, and telephone number of person who hired you
• Name, job title, and telephone number of your supervisor
• Your job title and duties

At the beginning of the co-op, we suggest that you:

• Discuss with your employer the best ways to communicate with you. For more information about communication and working with deaf people, tell the employer about the NCE Web site.
• Meet your supervisor and the other workers, and ask for a chart of the organization if available, to help you understand the company’s big picture.
• Find out what your co-workers prefer to be called.
• Ask about the dress code.

Learn about the culture and policies in your workplace. Some examples:

• Everyone is expected to come to work every day and be on time.
• Teamwork and cooperation in the workplace are important.
• Participation in social events will help you be part of the team.

Tips for success

• Understand your responsibilities and work priorities.
• Be motivated to do the tasks well and on time.
• Ask what else you can do when you finish assignments.
• Be flexible and willing to do tasks that are not normally part of your job.
• Ask appropriate questions.
• Learn new skills and grow.
• Maintain a good attitude.
• Make the co-op a positive experience for both you and the employer, since you represent yourself, NTID and other deaf and hard-of-hearing people.