Roles and Responsibilities of Participating Students

Considerations for Developing a Successful Canada-Japan Co-op Placement

It is the sincere desire of the Canada-Japan Co-op Program that participating companies and students will feel satisfied with the program, enjoy their participation, and find the experience to have been worthwhile.

Over the history of the program and with more than 570 students placed, we have been able to observe that there are many ways and opportunities for developing a truly beneficial experience, for both the company and the student. We believe that there are many things that companies, students and The Canada-Japan Co-op Program staff can do, to help ensure that the work placement/internship proceeds smoothly and in a positive manner.

Following, is a list of suggestions for helping to create a successful Canada-Japan Co-op work placement/internship:

Student Considerations:

1. Japanese Language Ability
We have observed that the better able a student is to speak Japanese, the happier he or she will be in Japan. Although Japanese language ability may not be necessary during working hours, it is very important for students to be able to make friends outside of work, get around Japan easily and handle basic living requirements in Japanese, such as shopping, sightseeing, etc. The Canada-Japan Co-op Program encourages all students to learn as much Japanese as possible before their departure for Japan.

2. Attitude
Students, who are flexible, friendly and out-going, perform well on work placements. The Canada-Japan Co-op Program asks each educational institution (University/College) to interview their student to determine their suitability for adapting to a new culture. In addition, the Canada-Japan Co-op Program conducts an interview with each student in order to get to know the students better before they are admitted into the Program.

If, for any reason a company is not happy with the student's work performance or attitude, it would be extremely helpful if the company could inform The Canada-Japan Co-op Program office as soon as possible, so that steps can be taken to improve the situation.

3. Prior Work Experience
In order to qualify for participation in The Canada-Japan Co-op Program, students must have prior work experience. Students with good practical skills are ready to begin productive work for their company right away. Students with previous work experience also have a good understanding of the work environment, can operate independently and are able to adapt to new work environment quickly. Students without relevant prior work experience are not encouraged to apply to the program.

4. Knowledge of Japanese customs and culture
Students are encourage to prepare for their work terms in Japan by exposing themselves to Japanese culture through film, books and interaction with Japanese student in Canada. Japanese customs and etiquette are learned in the pre-departure training. Students are encouraged to try Japanese food before going to Japan so that they are familiar with the cuisines. Students with dietary considerations such as vegetarianism, food allergies, religious observations, etc. are advised that dormitories cannot easily accommodate students with food restrictions. Students who are not able to be flexible with their diets while in Japan, are not encourage to apply to the program.