ARCH does not equal co-op, it equals an independent learning experience which includes (but to the best of my knowledge is not limited to): 1) co-op, 2) study-abroad, 3) on-campus research (for pay?), 4) community service, 5) working at a non-major related job. With the exception of (3) the student will be off-campus. I hope that RPI is not pushing ARCH as the best chance for a co-op because that is simply not true.
Thanks @StudentsR1st. What is the point of this time off in the middle of college? I’m not clear on how that’s an advantage over a traditional 4 year college experience, or one that has a stated co-op component (a la Northeastern or RIT).
I want to add more perspective on the way other schools approach co-ops. Just read this account of a student at RIT. This is what a supportive school does:
“In November, I signed onto a contract with a start up in Boston. During spring break, they called and rescinded my offer for no reason. I mention this because I wanted to highlight how awesome RIT’s co-op office is. With five weeks left in the school year, they got me into interviews and into another position that I was happier with. Not only that, but the school backed me when dealing with the company, and they are being barred from recruiting from our campus.”
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