VIP FAQ's

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):

• When does the VIP Program start?
• Can first year students apply to VIP?
• How do you determine where students are placed?
• How are students evaluated?
• Can students take VIP for course credit?
• Can students find their own placements?
• Can I take other courses while I am in the VIP Program?
• How many placements am I allowed to do in the VIP Program?
• How is the VIP Program helpful towards my academic studies?
• Does the VIP Program credit affect my academic GPA?
• Will I be placed according to my field of study?
• What happens if I don't finish my 40 hours of work?
• How often will I have to go to work after I get my placement?
• Could I drop the VIP Program in the middle of the placement if they dislike my work or for any emergency purpose?
• My GPA is less than 5.0.  Am I eligible to participate in the VIP Program?
• Is there a fee to participate?

When does the VIP Program start?  [top]

The VIP Program commences at the beginning of each of the fall, winter and summer semesters.

Can first year students apply to VIP?  [top]

We encourage first year students to apply during their second semester (winter semester).  However, if a first year first semester student is eager to apply, their application will be considered.

How do you determine where students are placed?  [top]

We determine where students are placed based on information provided to us on the application form and indicated area of career interest.

How are students evaluated?  [top]

Student evaluations are based on their workshop attendance, on-the-job performance and the final evaluation received from the employer.  Students who have successfully completed the program requirements will receive recognition on their official transcript and a Certificate of Achievement.

Can students take VIP for course credit?  [top]

At this time, VIP cannot be taken for credit.  A pass or fail will be noted on your transcript.

Can students find their own placements?  [top]

Yes!  Students can find their own placements as long as the organizations are in the non-profit sector.

Can I take other courses while I am in the VIP Program?  [top]

Yes!  You can do other academic courses and VIP Program in the same semester.  The hours are flexible.

How many placements am I allowed to do in the VIP Program?  [top]

You can complete a maximum of 2 placements.  Both placements could be at the same organization or you can choose to be placed with another organization.  This will allow for more diverse work experience.

How is the VIP Program helpful towards my academic studies?  [top]

VIP is an excellent supplement, since Co-operative Education is not available for all majors and all students.  However through the VIP Program, you will gain excellent work experiences and knowledge in your respected field.

Does the VIP Program credit affect my academic GPA?  [top]

No, VIP credit is counted separately from your academic GPA.

Will I be placed according to my field of study?  [top]

Yes!  The Applied Learning Coordinator does their best to offer the placement that the student requests or that is closely aligned to their field of study.

What happens if I don't finish my 40 hours of work?  [top]

Only those students who successfully complete the VIP Program will receive recognition on their academic transcript and a Certificate of Achievement.

How often will I have to go to work after I get my placement?  [top]

You will need to complete a total of 40 hours anytime before the semester ends.  The time is flexible.  You will have the opportunity to discuss a work schedule with your new employer.

Could I drop the VIP Program in the middle of the placement if they dislike my work or for any emergency purpose?  [top]

It is not recommended, you should discuss this with the employer and the Applied Learning Coordinator immediately before resigning from your placement.  Once students sign their VIP contract, they are required to fulfill all obligations.

My GPA is less than 5.0.  Am I eligible to participate in the VIP Program?  [top]

As long as you are in good academic standing, you can apply to the program.

Is there a fee to participate?  [top]

There is a $100.00 administration fee to participate in VIP.  Besides general expenditures such as overhead, equipment and staff time, VIP fees help cover specific expenses such as the following:

• Job development and employer recognitions (costs associated with securing and maintaining work placements);
• The purchase and maintenance of a software program that assists with the placement process;
• Insurance Policy;
• Program Materials;
• Marketing.

This fee is not charged until after you have been accepted to the program and attended orientation.