From Educated to Employed. Providing current and prospective UBC Arts Co-op students with news & info Interested in learning more about the Arts Co-op Program?
The UBC Arts Co-op Program partners with a diverse range of employers to offer work opportunities that will help you excel in both academic and professional capacities, and prepare you for your future career. Arts Co-op students alternate between academic terms and challenging, practical, and paid work experience. Explore your career options and gain 12 months of work experience before graduation.
Before Co-op vs. after co-op in their own words.
Can you relate?
06/16/2026
Through Arts Co-op, Rawan discovered the breadth of possibilities with an International Relations degree and how to apply academic knowledge to real-world policy challenges.
As a Junior Policy Analyst at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, she conducted in-depth research on nation-building initiatives and their intersections with Indigenous communities in Vancouver. Her work contributed to internal policy discussions and strengthened her ability to translate complex issues into clear, thoughtful analysis. Her supervisor commended her for bringing “energy, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference.”
Beyond her government work, Rawan co-founded Qadirah, a mentorship program for Muslim women youth in BC, and led Islamic Relief Canada UBC as President. Kudos Rawan!
🔗 Read more about Rawan's experience at Rawan Ahmed - Arts Co-op Program
06/05/2026
For Olivia, meaningful connection doesn’t always begin with words. Sometimes, it starts with quiet presence, with sitting beside a child, building trust, and meeting them where they are.
As a Program Assistant at UBC Geering Up and in her role as a special education assistant at Greater Heights Learning Academy, she worked closely with Indigenous youth, neurodivergent students, and children with diverse support needs, adapting learning materials, supporting students through behavioural challenges with patience and quick thinking, and contributing to a structured, inclusive environment.
Each work term has deepened her commitment to accessible, equitable education and affirmed her path toward counselling psychology. We can't wait to see where you go next, Olivia!
🔗 Read more about Olivia's experience at https://artscoop.ubc.ca/success-story/olivia-kajoba/
UBC Department of Psychology | UBC Faculty of Arts
06/04/2026
Congratulations to our Arts Co-op graduating class of 2026!
We are so proud of everything you have accomplished. The best is yet to come.
alumni UBC UBC Faculty of Arts
We asked Arts Co-op students to describe their co-op journey in just one word, and every answer carried a different experience, challenge, and moment of growth.
What word would you use to describe your journey?
05/15/2026
For Gabrielle, co-op was where analytical rigor and a commitment to public policy came together.
As a Junior Policy Analyst at Employment and Social Development Canada, she supported budget proposals, drafted briefing materials for senior leadership, and independently produced technical annexes – work typically assigned to mid-level analysts. While with the Employment Insurance Policy Directorate, she translated complex economic data into actionable insights used by senior decision-makers and partners like the Department of Finance.
Gabrielle's co-op experience added depth to her studies as an Economics and Political Science student. Well done, Gabrielle!
🔗 Read more about Gabrielle's experience at https://artscoop.ubc.ca/success-story/gabrielle-michael/
Vancouver School of Economics at UBC | UBC Political Science | UBC Faculty of Arts
04/20/2026
Need help breaking down job descriptions during your job search? 🔍
Here are some tips to help you interpret key terms and expectations so you can confidently highlight your strengths and experience to employers.
04/10/2026
Ever wondered what a day in the life of an Arts Co‑op student looks like? 💼 As a People and Culture Co-op at TI Corp, Nysa is responsible for supporting the Human Resources team with their initiatives and programs. Follow along as she takes you on a day of coordination, communication, and behind-the-scenes impact.
💬 In her own words, “As a Psychology major interested in Industrial Psychology, I get to study and learn about human behaviour and motivation. In my current role, I apply these insights, alongside data‑driven approaches to recruitment and employee‑retention programs.”
➡️ Swipe to see how she navigates a full day as an Arts Co‑op student.