DeVohn Benjamin Cooperative Education 2011

What Type of Work Did You Do At The Training Station?  The type of work I did at my work placement was either working with the Construction, Maintenance or Planting crew. With Construction, what I did was bringing materials such as bricks in and out of the job site. With Maintenance, my job was to mow the lawn and cultivate the garden beds, this would change over time. With the planting crew, it’s kind of self- explanatory, I planted...trees, bushes, and perennial flowers.

Who Were The People Who Influenced You At Your Training Station And How Have They Done This?  The people that have influenced me the most would have to be the foremen. They made it a better learning experience by trying to relate and communicate with me. If they weren’t the way they are now, I probably wouldn’t have learned anything.

What Equipment (Technology) Have You Learned To Use At Your Training Station?  During my Co-op experience at Allweather Landscape Co.LTD., I didn’t get to learn how to use new technology. I already had skills in the equipment I used, but was taught a few tricks to make it easier to use.

What Learning Took Place On-The-Job That You Could Not Have Learned At School?  I got to learn the hands on aspect of landscaping. I prefer to learn new things my doing rather to study and learn in a classroom.

How Have Your Job Skills Improved?  I believe I improved my job skills significantly this semester. My skill that I think i improved the most would be Communication. At the beginning of the semester, I didn’t like talking very much to anyone. But now, not only have I improved this skill, I’ve realized that communication skills are key to a career.

What General Impressions of The Cooperative Education Program Would You Pass on To Other Students Who Are Considering Taking Co-op?  I would say that Co-op is a great way to gain experience in a working environment in which will prepare you for the future.