These suggestions have been developed to help you prepare yourself for your cooperative job interview. It is important that you seriously consider them so that you may make the best impression possible on the interviewer in that short period of time that constitutes an interview.

A. Student Status

While on co-op work assignment, a student is always considered a full-time student at The University of Akron. Should you need a letter confirming this status, it may be obtained from the Co-op Office.

B. School Activities (Athletics, Intramurals, Clubs, etc.)

Co-op students are eligible to participate in all campus activities while on a co-op work assignment. These activities, however, should not interfere with the student's co-op job. Careful scheduling of co-op assignments with a coordinator can usually alleviate any conflicts.

C. Financial Aid

The student's eligibility for financial aid can be affected by Co-op. The student should check with a co-op coordinator and the Student Financial Aid and Employment Office. Specifically, students are ineligible for aid during a semester on a co-op work assignment, unless they are also enrolled for at least six credits. Students may use scholarships, subsequent year Pell Grants, and OIG in the summer -- if they meet the registration credit requirements. Most aid should be transferred to the following semester.

D. Social Security

If a student is receiving Social Security benefits, they may continue to do so while on a co-op assignment. However, their co-op earnings may effect Social Security income. The student should check with his/her coordinator for answers to specific questions.

E. Veterans and Veteran's Benefits

Although considered full-time students by The University of Akron, veterans and those receiving veteran's benefits while on a co-op assignment may or may not be considered in school by the Veteran's Affairs Office. Check with the University's Veteran's Affairs Office for answers to specific questions.

F. Residence Hall

Co-op students working in the Akron area may continue to reside in University residence halls.

G. Income Tax Liability

Many Co-op students are uncertain about their tax liability while they are earning wages in the Co-op Program. Rumors have surfaced many times in the past suggesting that Co-op earnings area not subject to Federal or State Income Tax. While employed as a Co-op your earnings are subject to Federal and State Tax, and you should file your returns each year. You should file your State return in the state of your permanent residence.

H. Unemployment Compensation

Co-op students are not qualified by law for unemployment compensation after their work assignments in industry or Government. Students are on work assignments with specific beginning and ending dates and they must return to school full-time upon completion of their assignments and are not available for other employment. The Co-op employers do not contribute to the Unemployment Insurance Fund for Co-op employees as they do for other employees.