Learn about how you can work with Capilano University students.
The process in steps
The faster you can find where the gaps are and how to turn them into projects for students, the quicker you can get this process started. Have ready a short project description, timelines, and deliverables. Prepare a list of responsibilities for the students to be assigned to your project to ensure a smooth and pleasant collaboration.
Knowing how long a project will take to complete is key. You may choose to work with a group of students, especially if the work can be done mostly remotely. You can choose to work with one student (practicum, intern, co-op) if the project requires a student to work in-person or in a hybrid work mode, over a longer period of time. Connect to CapU WIL to learn more about various ways to get this done, we have several types of WIL available. Start planning at least ten (10) weeks in advance.
CapU students are normally available to start in a WIL experience at the beginning of one of the academic terms listed below. CapU WIL organizes information sessions for external partners (employers) to support with finding the right type of WIL. We reconcile your needs with the students' program learning outcomes. Our Let's Talk WIL sessions are running three (3) times a year, every October, February and June.
Register for the next information session.
CapU has three academic terms:
- Fall: September to December
- Spring: January to April
- Summer: May to August
Example:
If you want to take on a student for the Spring term co-op or work experience, you should consider sending us the project description in October. This can ensure both sides have enough time for the student's application, interview preparation and post-interview document preparation.
Likewise, if you want groups of students to work on your organizational needs, please submit your project idea at least two months before the semester starts, as instructors need to integrate the project outline into the course syllabus and finalize it before the term begins.
Write a short project or internship description and indicate what innovation will this project bring to your organization, or what will the learning/ WIL experience benefits be for both you and the student/s. It's important to mention who will serve as an advisor/ mentor to the student during this project/ internship work.
Don't forget to approximate the total number of hours needed to complete the WIL experience and consider what your budget is and ask us about funding options.
Depending on the project's complexity and how involved you would like to be, some time is always required to work with students.
If you would like to work with students on a group project:
- 4-8 hours to prepare the opportunity;
- a few hours to meet students and present the challenge;
- a few hours to review the student's work in progress; and
- a few hours to see final presentations of work.
If you are looking to take on a student as a member of your team:
- time to create an internship description;
- narrowing down applications;
- interviewing students;
- orientation and training; and
- progress check-in, feedback, and time for self-reflection to crystallize growth opportunities.
Students are a great addition to any work setting, they enhance the workplace culture, provide opportunities for your team members to take on mentorship roles, bring new perspectives to solving existing issues and enhance your team's overall productivity.
Once you are ready, submit your project proposal or internship collaboration idea to CapU WIL.