Emmalee Parago named 2024 Social Sciences Co-op Student of the Year

During Summer 2024, Emmalee undertook a co-op placement as an economic development student in the City of Hamilton’s Economic Development Division.

Emmalee Parago’s abiding memories of her 2024 co-op placement was being part of a supportive community geared towards uplifting and supporting each other.

“The close-knit environment in my co-op program allowed me to form meaningful connections with my peers, enabling us to support each other beyond academics,” said Parago. “We shared job opportunities, career advice, and mutual encouragement, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that extended to professional growth.”

For her work in the economic development office at the City of Hamilton’s Economic Development Division, Parago was named the 2024 Social Sciences Co-op Student of the Year.

Parago is part of the inaugural cohort of Social Sciences co-op students who started their placements in 2024.

During her work term with the City of Hamilton, Parago provided support in a marketing capacity, which included graphic design, copywriting, data analysis, social media posting, website management, and attending partnership meetings to provide project updates.

Parago said that the opportunity provided valuable networking opportunities and encouraged other students to apply.

“My advice to anyone wanting to join the co-op program, or who is going to be looking for a co-op in the near future is to apply everywhere! Any experience is good experience,” she said. “And this program will expose you to so many new paths and connections you didn’t even know about.”

Employers interested in hiring co-op students can explore hiring options online or contact the employer partnership team. Prospective students can learn more about Social Sciences co-op on the Careers & Experiential Education website.