The primary focus of co-op communications is to create, design, execute and refresh “co-op” branded materials that are utilized by co-op coordinators, students, faculty and staff. These materials include, but are not limited to brochures, presentation folders, pamphlets, student and employer handbooks, prospective employer and incoming student FAQ sheets. In addition to the collateral materials, our office creates targeted advertising pieces, such as postcards, posters and banner ads designed for external audiences; i.e., current and potential co-op employer-partners, as well as incoming students.
Additional responsibilities of co-op communications are brainstorming ”out of the box” concepts to highlight the value/benefits of co-op to Northeastern’s prospective students and potential employer-partners. We work on and collaborate with internal departments on broadening Northeastern’s network of co-op positions, both domesticaly (with a high concentratioin on positions outside of Boston) and abroad. We also provide co-op marketing services to co-op directors and coordinators with professional development workshops, on-campus networking activities and customized events.
Connecting with the Northeastern community of faculty and staff, as well as with co-op employer-partners is a priority; providing interactive and engaging activities, such as:
Events
Throughout the year, Central Cooperative Education Services hosts varied conferences, seminars, webcasts and co-op employer award recognitions to highlight the success of co-op and to brand co-op as a valuable program for both the student and employer. Another way to highlight co-op is through the Co-op Education Student Awards, which recognizes up to 16 outstanding Northeastern seniors for their achievements in co-op and in their academic studies. Co-op employer-partner recognition events are held on and off campus where the co-op faculty celebrates and recognizes current and new employers for supporting the co-op program. Central Co-op Services provides a variety of ways to help highlight these employers and thank them for their loyality and dedication. We host employer recognition events which help promote their brand on campus either through display banners or company information sessions; the faculty will present employers with co-op certificates and plaques that can be displayed proudly at the employer’s worksite. Central Co-op will also help secure keynote speakers and student panels to present at various functions or meetings. Other events, such as co-op faculty/coordinator breakfasts and luncheons, recognizing the hard work and dedication of our co-op faculty.
Advertising
Central Co-op Services provides special advertising sections designed for print and online media outlets, e.g., AIM (print), GBCC (online), MassMedic (print) and social networks (Facebook, Twitter). The objective is to expand our network and spread the word about Northeastern co-op, to gain exposure among the professional community, and to brand Northeastern as the leader and expert in cooperative education and experiential learning.
Professional Development
Guest speakers are invited to present to the co-op faculty regarding various topics, such as technology changes, economic challenges and outcomes, social media, negotiation skills, time management and an array of subject matters that are beneficial to the development and advancement of our team.
Networking Sessions
To join and/or present at appropriate educational associations, organizations and clubs in and around the Boston area. Attend conferences (locally and abroad) to learn what is new within the field of higher education and to learn about other successful internship/co-op programs.