Co-op Student of the Year Award
Celebrating Excellence
The Experiential Learning Hub recognizes the success of co-op students and employers each year with the Co-op Awards, an event that celebrates their contributions and achievements in experiential learning and industry partnerships.
Co-op Student of the Year Award
This award recognizes the outstanding contributions of the student in the areas of academic achievement, workplace performance, innovation and contributions, extracurricular activities, involvement within the community, and involvement within the Co-op program at Guelph. Employers can nominate any University of Guelph student who had a work term in 2026. This award includes a $1,000 cash prize, a certificate of honour, and permanent name placement on the awards plaque.
Employers will be sent an invitation to nominate a student.
There are currently five Co-op Student of the Year Awards granted in the following categories:
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Computing
- Bachelor of Engineering
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences, Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management, Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice
- Associate Diploma
2026 Nomination Deadline Dates
- April 24, 2026
- Winter Work Term
- August 28, 2026
- Summer Work Term
- November 20, 2026
- Fall Work Term
Collin Cureatz Award for Co-op Student Involvement
The Collin Cureatz Memorial award recognizes a co-op student who has contributed to the betterment of the University of Guelph co-op program or to co-op student life during 2026. Established in 1999, the award was renamed in 2008 in honour and remembrance of exemplary co-op student Collin Cureatz. During his years at Guelph, Collin achieved excellent marks, was an outstanding co-op student, an enthusiastic Peer Helper and dedicated volunteer within the community. This award is presented each year to a student who mirrors the outstanding qualities and talents that Collin possessed.
Students, along with faculty and staff, are invited to nominate any Co-op student who has registered at the University of Guelph for at least one semester during 2026 and has positively represented the Co-op program to current students, future students and the community in general. This award includes a $1,000 cash prize, a certificate of honour, and permanent name placement on the awards plaque.
Nominations are closed.
2026 Nomination Deadline
- November 20, 2026
- 2026 Nomination Deadline
Hear From Co-op Student Award Winners
Winning this award was a true honour that reminded me of the value of giving back and staying involved. It encouraged me to keep supporting others in their co-op journeys, just as I was once supported. I’m truly grateful to be recognized in a way that honours Collin’s legacy and the spirit of community it represents.
Winning the 2024 Ian Pavlinic Memorial Award for Innovation – Co-op Student of the Year in Computing – is a beautiful reminder that even the smallest acts of impact can blossom into something extraordinary. This recognition fuels my journey to proudly represent the University of Guelph – a place that has given me the skills, strength, and support to grow, lead, and inspire. It reminds me to always give my best, learn from those around me, and bring communities together. In the appreciation of those I’ve had the privilege to help, I find the courage to keep going – and the joy of watching others grow and learn alongside me.
I’m incredibly appreciative to be recognized with this award! I am proud of what I accomplished during my recent placement and am thankful for all of the people who supported me, and can truly say that about each of my work terms. The co-op program has been rewarding and given me experiences and connections I didn’t think were possible. The work I completed has been impactful towards both my personal growth and has helped guide me to pursue a career I enjoy.
I am honoured to have been selected as a recipient of this award! Co-op has truly enriched my experience as an undergraduate student. The organizational knowledge, practical skills, and passion that I have developed will guide me through my studies and future career. I am grateful for the support of my co-op employer, faculty, and the folks at the Experiential Learning Hub.
Being awarded with Co-op Student of the Year made me feel very appreciated and valued for my hard work. As a co-op student, I always try to go above and beyond to leave a long-lasting positive impact on my workplace. Through my experiences, I have learned to never be afraid to ask questions and take initiative because having a desire and willingness to learn new things will set you apart. This award shows that co-op can teach you the skills you need to be successful professional setting and make a real impact on others around you.
This award is a fantastic opportunity to recognize the dedication and meaningful contributions made by U of G co-op students. My journey through the co-op program has been immensely valuable, as it has effectively steered me towards my desired career path in ways I could not have achieved on my own.
Thankful. Proud. Happy. Honoured. This award has a personal touch that makes being the recipient feel that much more special! Not only have I been recognized for my involvement and impact on the UofG and Guelph community, but I have also been able to connect with a student who had a lasting impact while he attended the UofG. That student is Collin Cureatz. I am beyond proud of the involvement I have had as a co-op student, extremely happy to celebrate this with all those who helped me be where I am today and honoured to be held to the same standard Collin held for himself.
Being chosen as the Co-op Student of the Year represents the culmination of my hard work, personal growth, and the understanding that each obstacle I've encountered has been a valuable part of my journey. This recognition fuels my passion for lifelong learning and reinforces my commitment to my career goals.
5 years ago, I moved to the other side of the world from a small Italian village with my nonna's recipe book and a suitcase full of dreams. Since then, it's been a lot of meeting great people, working on my goals, failing and learning. This award is a full-circle moment that goes to show that hard work pays off. Don't be afraid to give your 110% in the things that you do, but remember that all the sacrifices you make today will get you one step closer to where you want to be tomorrow.
It is truly an honour to be selected for this award and to be celebrated alongside my fellow award recipients! I have been fortunate in the opportunities I have been given these last few years, and the U of G and Guelph community has had such a meaningful impact on my career both as a student and as a young professional. I am grateful for the ability to give back to ensure that the community has its chance to shine, too!
I am honoured to have been selected for this year's engineering co-op student of the year! Working at WSP provided me with such an amazing experience in my future career field and helped me discover the direction I want my career to move in. I am glad that I was able to assist the teams in the capacity that I did, just as they assisted me with my professional growth, development, and knowledge!
I'm incredibly honoured to receive this award. It feels amazing to have my contributions be regarded so highly, and only motivates me further to keep learning and improving as I continue throughout my career.
This award reflects what can be achieved when a student is given great opportunities with full support.
