Co-op for Indigenous students

Nicole Mandryk
Nicole Mandryk (psychology and Indigenous studies) was hired to engage with local Aboriginal communities through summer programs offered at Mary’s Farm and Sanctuary, including nature-based counselling, equine-facilitated wellness workshops, drumming events and youth camps.

The co-op program offers many exciting opportunities for Indigenous students to connect with employers and gain culturally relevant work experience. Learn more about co-op or find answers to common questions below.

TIP: You can also check out Indigenous career programs, which run separately from the co-op program.

Frequently asked questions

Can co-op work with band funding?

Each band has different funding policies, so please ask your band to see how funding can work with your co-op degree or contact our  coordinator for help.

Are there culturally relevant co-op positions?

Co-op offers many culturally relevant work opportunities that will help you gain experience and build your technical, professional and community-based skills. Our employers include large companies, government ministries, organizations that impact Indigenous communities, and community-based groups, such as community organizations and tribal councils. You can also apply to any other co-op jobs you're interested in.

You can also work with our  coordinator to develop a customized position in your own community or with a particular employer you're interested in.

I'm a part-time student. Can I join co-op?

We offer a part-time parallel program for part-time students, so you can gain relevant work experience without disrupting your school/life balance. Contact your co-op program for more information.

Will co-op work if I have a family and dependents?

Many students balance their academic degrees with family responsibilities. Co-op supports you in many ways:

Meet the Indigenous coordinator

Lalita Kines

Lalita Kines is the LE,NONET Experiential and Community Learning Coordinator.

You can reach her at iacemgr@uvic.ca or 250-472-4618, or in room 147 of the First Peoples House.

My name is Lalita Kines and I am Coast Salish from the K'ómoks Nation. I have a background in education and a passion for career planning and development. I look forward to helping Indigenous students!

Lalita can help you:

  • find relevant work in your field of study
  • connect with Indigenous organizations and First Nations communities who hire students
  • explore culturally relevant co-op opportunities—projects or services that impact or partner with Indigenous communities
  • learn more about the LE,NONET program
  • find career resources and discuss band funding issues

Hear about UVic's Indigenous co-op exchange

Learn about UVic's Indigenous mock interview clinics