Learning by doing at Reichman University

About

Written by Tamara Mizroch Learning by doing at Reichman University Many students face the problem of finding a job when they graduate. Armed with knowledge but oftentimes with little work experience the prospect of how to pry open the door of the professional world can still be elusive for many. The Co-op program of the Adelson School of Entrepreneurship was specifically designed to help students find their way in. Dr. Yossi Maaravi, Dean of the Adelson School of Entrepreneurship, initiated the Co-op program eight years ago, "one of the program’s key advantages is the close connection between what the students are studying and what is happening in the real world", states Maaravi. "It is meaningful and memorable. Their skills and knowledge are integrated as they gain professional experience while expanding their network.” The Co-op ​program provides all students at Reichman University, regardless of their major, the unique opportunity to work at a start-up while completing their studies. Students have the possibility to do the program at various points throughout the academic year. Dr. Maaravi says, "we know the program is a success when we have over 75% of participants stay on and eventually become permanent employees". The CO-OP Startup Experience Course Eight years ago, there was one student in the program; today there are over 300 students placed in 100 companies. According to Dar Zellinger, program Director, "the growth and popularity of the program expanded as we are constantly refining and expanding on the program. One of the pivotal changes we made was connecting the student directly with the start-up. By creating an online platform, we made it easy for start-ups to access students' information. Also, students can view the different job opportunities at various startups." In addition, the program holds "speed-dating" events where start-ups meet with students at various stations throughout the Adelson School building. David Moscati, 25 from Italy, is a Busines