At Drexel, about 94 percent of students take at least one six-month break from classes to get a job – most are paid jobs – in their prospective career field, according to Ian Sladen, the university’s vice president for cooperative education and career development. These work experiences, known as co-ops, have been part of Drexel’s education model since 1919. “I don’t think anyone’s going to the school and not thinking about their future and how the degree will benefit their future,” Natelauri said. “The co-op is an opportunity when you can try yourself in different industries and see which fits better.”
