Introduction to the Connexions Program

The Connexions Program is an initiative established by the Telfer School of Management's Career Centre. Its mission is to foster strong links between Telfer students and the business community through practical volunteer work.

Program Description

Connexions offers students the chance to acquire experience in their field of study and provides employers with qualified personnel. Supported by the Career Centre, students find their own internship, ensuring the experience fits with their goals and objectives, and work within that organization one day a week for a full academic term. Students are not paid for their work; for them, the objective is to gain work experience. Upon successful completion of an internship, students submit an internship report evaluated by a Telfer professor and receive three academic units.

Benefits for Employers

The Connexions Program provides several benefits for employers, including:

• Improved productivity for businesses through additional motivated personnel.
• Opportunity for businesses to evaluate potential employees.
• Minimal expense for training and supervision.

What Employers Can Expect

Employers can expect to work with qualified and motivated third- and fourth-year business students willing to work on a specific project for a period of 12 weeks for 7 hours per week. Students have many fields of study within commerce, including:

• Accounting
• Commerce
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• Healthcare analytics
• Human resources management
• International management
• Management
• Management information systems and analytics
• Marketing

Program Structure

The Connexions Program is offered in the fall, winter, and summer terms.

Connexions Term Schedule

• Fall: September - December
• Winter: January - April
• Summer: May - August

Responsibilities of Employers

Employers are expected to:

• Offer a motivating and challenging work environment.
• Guide the student during the early stages of their internship.
• Provide an interesting and educational experience.
• Complete registration and evaluation forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Connexions Students Paid?

Connexions is an unpaid internship program students are not paid for their work. The main objective of the Program is to give students work experience.

Working Hours

Students work with an organization for a minimum of 7 hours a week for a 12-week period. It is preferable to welcome a student for a full day to give them a well-rounded experience of working in your office, however employers may work around a students schedule.

Type of Work/Projects

Students are not limited to any specific job. The objective is to provide students with practical experience in their field of study. Therefore, allowing them to have their hands in many types of projects will be beneficial to them and to you.

Responsibilities as a Connexions Employer and/or Supervisor

• Meeting with the student early on to discuss expectations and learning objectives.
• Training, mentoring, and supporting the student to ensure success.
• Meeting with the student regularly to analyze performance and offer advice.
• Submitting a mid-term and a final evaluation of the student's work, measured against his or her objectives.

How Students Find Employers

Once an employer has connected with the Program Manager and completed introductory forms, they will be invited to the Connexions Network, a networking event where they will meet students for the first time. Following the networking event, a list of prospective employers is sent to the students, and it is their responsibility to contact the employer to secure an internship.

Guarantee of Being Matched with a Student

This is not a matching program. There is no guarantee an employer will find a student each semester, or even receive any applications. Application levels vary depending on the candidate pool and on the jobs available to students at that time.

International Students

As Connexions offers unpaid internship opportunities, international students do not need a work permit. International students in the Connexions Program hold a valid study permit and are full-time students.

Taking on More Than One Student

Employers can only take one student at a time, more established employers within the Connexions program (who already participated and hired a student) can hire a maximum of 2 students per term.

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Overview:

The University of Ottawa is a public research university located in Ottawa, Canada. It is one of Canada's top 10 research universities, known for its commitment to excellence, relevance, and impact in research. The university is also recognized for its bilingual nature, offering programs in both English and French.

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Services Offered:

The University of Ottawa provides a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Academic writing help, tutoring, and support from faculty members.

Bilingual Studies and Language Learning:

French and English immersion streams, as well as intensive language programs.

Campus Life:

Housing options, dining services, recreation facilities, student clubs and organizations, and health and wellness services.

Career Development:

Career counselling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Financial Support:

Scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs.

International Students:

Support for international students, including visa assistance, language programs, and cultural adjustment services.

Mentoring and Peer Support:

Mentoring programs and peer support networks.

Research and Innovation:

Research centers and institutes, core facilities, and resources for researchers.

Safety and Security:

Security services, harassment and discrimination prevention programs, and self-defense courses.

Sustainability:

Sustainability initiatives, programs, and activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Ottawa can expect a vibrant and diverse campus experience. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student clubs and organizations, sports teams, and cultural events. The campus is located in the heart of Ottawa, providing easy access to the city's many attractions and amenities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Bilingual Environment:

The university is a leading bilingual institution, offering programs in both English and French.

Research Excellence:

The University of Ottawa is a top research university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Diverse and Inclusive Community:

The university is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from all backgrounds.

Strong Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields.

Location in the Capital City:

The university's location in Ottawa provides students with access to government institutions, cultural attractions, and employment opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Ottawa has 10 faculties, offering a wide range of academic programs, including:

Faculty of Arts:

Humanities, social sciences, and fine arts.

Faculty of Education:

Teacher education and educational research.

Faculty of Engineering:

Engineering disciplines, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

Faculty of Health Sciences:

Health sciences, including medicine, nursing, and pharmacy.

Faculty of Law:

Civil law and common law.

Faculty of Medicine:

Medical education and research.

Faculty of Science:

Science disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and physics.

Faculty of Social Sciences:

Social sciences, including economics, psychology, and sociology.

Telfer School of Management:

Business administration and management.