My university does a similar thing, however while they sell the co-op pretty hard, they don't advertise on afternoon TV. I look at the co-op as an opportunity t

My university does a similar thing, however while they sell the co-op pretty hard, they don't advertise on afternoon TV. I look at the co-op as an opportunity to get out, enjoy a break from classes while making money and gaining experience. I've spent 9 months of my co-op time at a national lab, doing research. As of now, it looks like I could go back there as soon as I've graduated. However, while it's very nice to have a job waiting, I'd say it's equally important that I had the opportunity to get out and do real research, get paid, and get published.