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Student Co-Op Testimonials

Blake Lott

Co-Op Graduate with Carpenter Technology

Q: Why did you choose to apply to the Co-Op Program?

“I wanted to gain hands-on experience in my chosen field, industrial controls.”

Q: How has your co-op prepared you for a career in your field?

“My co-op has helped me better understand the industrial maintenance career path.”

Q: What advice would you give to a student interested in cooperative learning?

“Prioritize co-op, a degree is good to have, but coupling that degree with experience is better. ”

Q: In your opinion, what was the most beneficial part of being a co-op student?

“It helps open doors, as well as gives you a better understanding of your chosen field. It helps you better understand your options within that field. ”

Q: Any other feedback or questions?

“Start as soon as possible and work hard.”

Angely Calles

Co-Op Graduate with Redstone Federal Credit Union

Q: Why did you choose to apply to the Co-Op Program?

“I chose to apply to the co-op program because I wanted hands-on experience in a professional environment while continuing my education at Calhoun Community College. The program gave me the opportunity to apply what I’m learning in school to a real workplace, gain experience in the financial field, and better prepare myself for future career opportunities.”

Q: How has your co-op prepared you for a career in your field?

“Working at Redstone Federal Credit Union has helped prepare me for a career by teaching me real-world skills such as customer service, communication, professionalism, and responsibility. I’ve learned how a financial institution operates, how to work with members, and how to handle tasks accurately and efficiently. This experience has helped me understand workplace expectations and build confidence in a professional setting.”

Q: What advice would you give to a student interested in cooperative learning?

“I would advise students to take the opportunity seriously and be open to learning. Ask questions, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Cooperative learning is a great way to gain experience, build connections, and learn skills you won’t always get in a classroom. “

Q: In your opinion, what was the most beneficial part of being a co-op student?

“The most beneficial part of being a co-op student was gaining real work experience while still being a student. It helped me understand how the workplace functions, improve my time management skills, and prepare for future employment by building my resume and professional skills.”

Q: Any other feedback or questions?

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the co-op program and to work with Redstone Federal Credit Union. The experience has been very valuable, and I appreciate the support from both my employer and Calhoun Community College.”

Derrick Nichols

Co-Op Graduate with Redstone Federal Credit Union

Q: Why did you choose to apply to the Co-Op Program?

“I chose the co-op program because it provides valuable hands-on experience and encourages involvement at the school. Redstone Federal Credit Union is a great opportunity. Since I am pursuing a degree in accounting and it is a financial institution, this experience is a strong start to my career and could lead to an accounting role in the future.”

Q: How has your co-op prepared you for a career in your field?

“The co-op program has prepared me for a career in my field by giving me real-world experience in a financial institution while I’m still in school. It has helped me apply what I’m learning in accounting to everyday operations and build professional skills.”

Q: What advice would you give to a student interested in cooperative learning?

“My advice to someone interested in the co-op program would be to definitely enroll and take it seriously, be professional, show up on time, ask questions and put forth your best effort, because the experience and connections you gain makes a big difference in your future career.”

Q: In your opinion, what was the most beneficial part of being a co-op student?

“The most beneficial part of being a co-op student is gaining real-world experience and getting paid while still in school. It helps connect what you learned to the actual job responsibilities, build professional skills, and better prepare you for a career in your field.”

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