The Center for Career and Transfer Services hosted a special breakfast event last month to celebrate a year of success for QCC’s cooperative education programs. Students, faculty, staff and employer partners gathered at the Worcester Senior Center to connect and recognize the collaborative effort that prepares students for real-world employment. QCC’s Hospitality and Recreation Management program provided an appetizing buffet to start the morning off on a high note.
“I’m thrilled to be here today to thank you. What the students learned in class set them up for the co-ops, but what they learn when they are there is the application; those are things we cannot recreate without all of you,” said Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Kathy Rentsch. "But most of all, the co-op really helps students to build social capital, especially through the mentorship of the employer partnership. That sets a foundation that really can be lifechanging."
Over 20 programs at QCC, such as Business Accounting, Medical Office, Electronics Engineering and Computer Information Systems, include a co-op. The breakfast highlighted the 59 students who have completed co-ops from Summer and Fall 2023 and Spring 2024. Employers such as David Clark, Old Sturbridge Village, UMass Memorial Health and QCC's Help Desk also received certificates of appreciation for their support.
"Anybody who has interacted with, interview or hired students from Quinsigamond, know how wonderful the applicants have been," said Senior Director of IT at UMass Chan Medical School Scott Dziewietin who chose Computer Systems Engineering student Jephet Opong for their co-op program. "Jephet came in and impressed the entire team with subject knowledge, social skills, communication, work ethic and intellectual curiosity. It rejuvenated our team to see somebody come in willing to learn and to do whatever it takes to be successful in their career. He was an absolute pleasure to work with."
For more information on QCC's cooperative education programs visit www.qcc.edu/careerservices.