Drexel University’s cooperative education (co-op) program is renowned for its unique approach to higher education, offering students a blend of classroom learning and up to one and a half years of full-time real-world work experience. While the co-op system continues to have numerous benefits on the professional lives of Drexel students, it also presents a rare and often overlooked set of challenges that affect students from various majors differently. 

The process of applying for co-op positions lasts for only a few days, allowing students to drop their resume into the university’s Steinbright Career Development Center portal for over thirty positions. Though we are extremely thankful for this portal and the strong company connections that Drexel has, the task itself can be extremely daunting and leave students strapped for time to send the needed materials to their top picks.

Interview invites are sent out about two weeks after the application deadline passes and almost always land on or right around finals week. As if students were not already stressed enough, preparing for and attending interviews is sure to push them to their breaking point. 

Marissa Lux, sophomore finance and business analytics student, looks back on her first co-op application cycle this spring and recounts that “trying to do well on my interviews and finals at the same time was super stressful,” and wishes that co-op interviews fell during a less-busier time. 

After the interviews, students are faced with their offers and are prompted to rank their top choices if not offered a position directly, adding to prolonged stress and anxiety. One of the fundamental challenges of Drexel’s co-op system is the demanding schedule that leaves little room for rest. We are constantly alternating between academic terms and full-time work for nearly five years, making our college years mentally and physically exhausting. Burnout is a real concern considering over a quarter of Americans face burnout during their professional careers.

At the Lebow School of Business, the competitiveness of co-op searches are amplified, with large banks and asset management firms such as Goldman Sachs, BlackRock and J.P. Morgan, along with Philadelphia’s top employers Glenmede, SIG, Lockheed Martin and Comcast, seem to be the end-all be-all. Nosiness is at its peak on LinkedIn, as students are able to see who got the positions they may have interviewed for or were even rejected from. 

Lux voiced that “everyone is in each other’s business which adds another layer of stress.” It isn’t just about getting good experience anymore, it is also about what looks best on the resume or to other people. 

In the case that a co-op assignment is outside Philadelphia, a six-month re-location is often the only option, and this constant upheaval leads to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as students struggle to establish a stable social life. Lux joked: “It’s like ambition can’t wait…for friends.” Sadly, she is absolutely right, and the fact is, we cannot prepare for when our friends leave and when we are forced to leave our friends, our true support systems.

Emily Wolfe, senior biomedical engineering major, relayed that during COVID, there were “not a lot of paid positions, which was stressful because getting a paid position was so competitive.” She also discussed applying to and interviewing for positions she did not think she would enjoy because “I wasn’t sure what I could even get.” 

In the case of an unpaid co-op, Steinbright provides a grant of $6,000 to compensate, which fails to make a dent when paid co-ops gross an average of $20,000 across majors. In many cases, an unpaid co-op would likely cause a college student to be in the red. This scarcity of preferred and paid positions is more prevalent for less common majors such as music industry, where many students claim they have been forced to accept co-op positions that were less relevant to their field of study.

Drexel’s co-op program, ranked #2 in the United States, has tremendous benefits and allows students to figure out what type of work they are looking for post-graduation, get real-world experience and make lasting connections. However, there are solutions to alleviate mental anguish students face in applying, interviewing for, choosing and eventually participating in co-ops. Introducing a buddy system where freshmen students are paired up with sophomore students for the duration of their time at Drexel would allow students to learn from each others’ experiences and feel less alone during the first steps of their professional careers. When students feel less anxious and less lost, they will thrive during co-op and beyond. 

This article is part of a grant awarded to The Triangle from the Solutions Journalism Network investigating student mental health at Drexel University.

Dragonfly 2023, featuring an all-female lineup, was an electrifying event that showcased incredible talent and unforgettable performances. The event proved to be the perfect platform to uplift these amazing women in a traditionally male-dominated field.

The evening began with the dynamic Drexel University music industry student Djella, who set the tone for the night with a mix of upbeat, funk, pop and club hits. Her infectious energy and masterful mixes commanded the atmosphere and exemplified the theme of powerful women, setting up the night to become truly unforgettable. Her transitions were seamless, and she had the crowd dancing and singing along to a diverse selection of songs. Notable moments included but are definitely not limited to remixes of Dua Lipa’s “Levitating,” Saweetie’s “Tap In,” Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love” and a surprise rendition of Rihanna’s “Diamonds.” Djella’s 40-minute set was a high-energy start to an evening filled with music and empowerment.

Following Djella, we asked Drexel students about what Dragonfly meant to them.

Drexel students Nana, Ellie, Maya and Calvin collectively voiced that they “loved Djella’s entire set,” and that having a “headliner as big as Chloe Bailey is bound to be amazing.” In their excitement for the night’s show, Maya exclaimed that they had “been here since 5:30 p.m., when no one was even in line yet!”

Up next was Pamé, Drexel’s first female Dominican performer, captivating the crowd with her Afro-Latina flair. She showcased an array of unreleased songs, blending melodic Spanish and English tunes with explosive rap. Pamé’s stage presence was magnetic, and her interactions with the crowd made everyone feel at home. Songs like “Fresh Water” and “Bullet” had the audience singing along and dancing, while her slower ballad “One Step Closer” showcased her pitch-perfect vocals. Her closing song hit deep with huge beats consecutively raising octaves with every repetition of the chorus. Needless to say we were all Pamé fans by the end of the night.

We were grateful to have a moment to connect with the incredibly talented and approachable Pamé after her show.

When talking about her start in the music industry, she told us that “it has always been in my blood.”

Growing up, Pamé’s father was a percussionist and her mother was always encouraging her to follow her passions.

She also participated in musical theater but later “did not want to compete with every Black girl for The Color Purple.”

Determined to pave her own path, Pamé moved to LA to pursue her dreams and never looked back. Pamé’s journey echoed resilience and determination as she proudly embraced her unique heritage and channeled it to fuel the path to her dreams.

“The crowd tonight was amazing, you guys are so hype and so amazing,” she doted, “I am just so honored to be here tonight with you all.”

After much anticipation, the headliner of the night Chloe Bailey made a grand entrance with her dancers, who wore all-white outfits which provided a beautiful contrast and enhanced their incredible body control and sharp movements. Bailey’s stage presence was unmatched as she engaged with the crowd and encouraged everyone to dance. Her set included a mix of her hit songs, such as “Mercy,” “Shake” and “They Don’t Love Me Like You.” Bailey’s vocal prowess, highlighted in songs like “Lose You,” left the audience in awe, and she connected with fans on a personal level, telling us to sing along if “you are scared to lose somebody you know isn’t right for you.”

Throughout her performance, Bailey fearlessly shared moments of vulnerability and empowerment. She spoke about self-love and the challenges she had faced, making her music even more meaningful and relatable to her audience. She played a keyboard solo and exhibited her versatility by controlling the beat and the crowd’s emotions. Her powerful performances, including “Smile” and “Treat Me,” showcased her ability to convey deep emotions through her music with an upbeat flare.

After a quick break, Bailey made a striking re-entrance, donning a red leather jacket that cascaded down to her mid-thigh. She engaged the crowd with slow gestures, playfully swinging a red belt, all while maintaining a pitch-perfect performance. The whimsical look in her eyes hinted at the layers of emotion yet to be revealed.

Bailey’s next song, “Heart on My Sleeve,” explored the theme of loving those who continuously hurt her. With a keyboard solo, she controlled the beat and captured the audience’s attention. The heartfelt lyrics preached self-love and positivity, striking a chord with everyone in the venue. As the song reached its peak, dancers in matching red coats joined her on stage, adding a soulful dimension to the performance. The emotional connection was palpable as they stared into the distance resonating with the crowd’s collective heartbeat.

A cohesive blend of soulful ballads, energetic dance numbers, beautiful falsetto and vibrato and messages of self-love and empowerment, Bailey’s performance was one to be remembered as more than just a performance — but a transformative experience that celebrated the strength and diversity of female artists in the music industry.

At the end of the night, we had a moment to chat with Campus Activities Board’s Tekum Kassa to reflect on Dragonfly 2023. She was proud to tell us that this year’s concert was historic, as it was the first time that Drexel has ever had an all-female lineup. It was also the first time since 2017 that we have had a female headliner and that “diversifying the Dragonfly lineup both identity-wise and genre-wise was definitely a priority this year.”

After hearing past requests for Latin artists, she added that Pamé was “an amazing surprise.” Our conversation shifted as we talked about what it takes to put on a show as large as Dragonfly.

Immediately thankful for her CAB team, she claimed that her “team has been amazing, everyone works so hard and has been so on it from the start– from the marketing team to the production and operations team, to the artist hospitality team.” It was safe to say that CAB’s hard work to put this event together was well worth it and a huge success.

As the night came to an end, Kassa expressed in earnest “it’s so good to see everyone’s smiling faces, to be part of something that brings people so much happiness.”

Dragonfly 2023 truly was a night of unity, solidarity and empowerment, truly paving the way for a future where women can continue to redefine their narrative within the world of music.

Just two weeks into my first co-op experience at BlackRock, I can already feel a significant transformation in my professional maturity. Although I have not dived into substantial work yet, the emotional and behavioral checklist for success has never been longer. Being in the office more than on campus has provided me with a glimpse into what my life might be like post-graduation. It has been a substantial bite to chew, an intriguing blend of the eerie and the exhilarating.

Cooperative education, often referred to as co-op, seamlessly melds classroom learning with practical work experience in a real-world corporate setting. For many students, co-op programs serve as their initial exposure to the corporate world, offering immense potential in preparing them socially and emotionally for their future careers. These experiences come at an age when curiosity should be actively applied.

The journey begins with a smile and a firm handshake, a standard office dynamic that students quickly learn to embrace. Being ready with a smile, a confident handshake, and a pleasant nod for every new person you meet becomes second nature. Looking the part is equally important — projecting confidence, professionalism, and a put-together appearance. Dressing in dress pants, shoes, and shirts that feel like a second skin (though they are far from it) becomes part of the daily routine. It may initially feel like a performance, but it’s all in the effort to prove that we belong in this professional space.

The corporate environment can act as a potent motivator. It encourages students to stay on track with their studies during off-cycle periods, ensuring they graduate and return to the workforce full-time one day. The six-month grind of proving oneself in a corporate firm is exhilarating and distinct from any previous work experience.

One of the earliest lessons is the importance of effective communication. Before reaching my desk each day, I exchange at least ten “good mornings” — it’s the norm. There is no room for not being in the mood to talk to people; those who resist communication often become vulnerable when companies consider downsizing. We learn how to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and clients, understanding the nuances of timing and the types of jokes that fit the workplace culture. Gradually, we grasp workplace etiquette and norms, enhancing our overall emotional intelligence.

The job primarily revolves around teamwork and adapting to, and eventually thriving in, a new environment. Onboarding takes time and patience, and finding your place within a team that has operated for years without you is a personal project. However, problem-solving skills honed through years of education readily transfer to the professional world. Group dynamics remain constant, and co-op experiences enable us to refine our teamwork skills and find our roles within various teams and projects.

Networking, networking, networking — I never heard that word so frequently before my co-op began. This new skill demands a lot of small talk and elevator pitches. Although it can seem intimidating to engage with Directors and VPs, establishing these connections is invaluable in making sure they know our names.

Early on, I have pinpointed aspects of the job that I both enjoy and those that are less appealing. This self-discovery will be immensely valuable when applying for full-time positions. The co-op experience has equipped me with the confidence to make informed career decisions, ensuring a smoother transition from college to my professional journey when the time comes.

Welcome to Drexel University! You have moved into your first college dorm and are ready to begin a new chapter in your life. Dorm living offers a unique blend of independence, camaraderie and challenges that contribute to the college experience, and we hope that you enjoy every minute of it.

Dorm rooms are on the smaller side, making efficient use of space essential. Consider investing in storage solutions such as under-bed storage bins, hanging organizers and collapsible containers. Use vertical space to your advantage with shelves and hooks — maximizing your space is the idea here. Feel free to personalize your room by decorating it with posters, photos and other items that reflect your vibe. Also, try your best to be organized and keep the room clean — you will thank yourself for it! Before leaving home, pack strategically to ensure you have everything you need. Do not forget basics like bedding, towels, toiletries, a first aid kit, desk supplies and laundry detergent. A desk lamp and power strips are also handy. In terms of kitchen utensils and plates, opt for plastic rather than ceramic, as they will not break and are easier to store in a crowded space. Also, and I cannot stress this enough, use shower shoes in both communal and suite showers to prevent unwanted infections! As you settle in, enjoy attending floor meetings and events set up by the RAs, and get to know other students on your floor. Building even a small dorm community will help you relax and acclimate to your new space. Respect quiet hours and be courteous to the people around you in order to maintain a positive community. In a shared space, it is harder to stay healthy, so eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and get enough sleep. In the fall and winter, be especially careful to stay away from sickness — all it takes is a few sick people to spread a cold throughout the dorm. Be vigilant about your safety. Lock your doors, be cautious with visitors and familiarize yourself with emergency procedures. When living in a dorm, communication with your roommate(s) is everything. Everyone grows up with a different idea of what normal is, and many college students have never shared a room before. Do not assume your roommate will think or behave exactly the way you do, even if you are rooming with a friend. If something is bothering you, say something about it, preferably right away — do not let all the little annoying habits just build on each other until you find yourself leaving a two-page bulleted list of grievances on your roommate’s bed before you leave for spring break. It is worth it to establish open communication while living together.

This will likely be your first and only year living in a dorm, so enjoy it! Make the most of your time and make some great memories to kick off your college experience

As the days grow longer and the sun continues to grace us with its warm embrace, we eagerly anticipate the joys of a long and recharging summer – from beach vacations to outdoor barbecues and picnics. However, for most of us, this season isn’t always a time of endless joy. Summertime sadness, also known as “summer blues” or “summer depression,” is a phenomenon that never fails to dampen our spirits each year. 

Contrary to the widely held belief that summer is a time of carefree happiness, many of us also experience a sense of sadness, lethargy, or even depression during these warm months. It is not new that summer often comes with the pressure to create the perfect experience. Anticipation of a season filled with happiness and adventure can create unrealistic expectations, setting the stage for disappointment if those expectations aren’t met. As we approach the “dog days” of summer, our Instagram feeds can exacerbate this pressure, as people showcase their idealized versions of summer activities, leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation.

The break from regular routines that comes with summer, such as a pause in academic or work-related responsibilities, can leave us feeling purposeless or adrift. However, Drexel’s quarter system may actually cause the opposite problem, leading to feelings of missing out spending time with hometown friends and family. And while summer is associated with social activities, it may feel impossible to indulge, leading to isolation or difficulty in engaging with others during this season.

One way to begin mitigating these feelings is to prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in physical activity. These practices can have a positive impact on mood and overall well-being. Mindfulness techniques, meditation, as well as deep breathing exercise, can help us manage our day-to-day stressors and stay grounded in the present moment.

Planning outings, gatherings or activities with our friends, even a week or two ahead of time, will allow us to look forward to our summer days and also help us find a work life balance. Try reducing the amount of time spent on social media platforms during the summer, too, freeing your mind from what “better” activities friends are partaking in. 

Pursue hobbies, creative projects, or volunteering opportunities that bring you joy and a sense of accomplishment. Allow yourself to experience the spectrum of emotions that come with life, including periods of sadness or discomfort. Recognize that not every moment needs to be extraordinary and that joy also comes from the little things, like the sunrise peeking through your apartment every morning and the sunset painting the evening sky. 

Summertime sadness is a nuanced and often overlooked aspect of the season. Understanding its potential causes and implementing strategies to manage it can help us fully embrace the joys of summer while navigating its challenges. Remember that seeking help and support is a sign of strength, and there’s no shame in acknowledging and addressing your feelings. By practicing self-care, cultivating meaningful connections and focusing on your well-being, you can create a summer experience that aligns with your authentic self and brings forth positivity and growth for the seasons to come.