By Shruti Menon Seeboo
As one of Canada’s premier institutions, the University of Waterloo has established itself as a prime destination for international students seeking an exceptional educational experience. Renowned for its innovative programs and strong emphasis on experiential learning, the university continues to attract diverse talent from around the globe. This November, the university will be participating in the Annual Study Fair hosted by Campus Abroad Mauritius on November 23 and 24, providing prospective students in Mauritius an opportunity to learn more about its exceptional programs and support services. To gain deeper insight into what makes the University of Waterloo an attractive choice, we spoke with Akua Asare Anim, an International Recruitment Specialist at the university. With her extensive experience, she sheds light on the university’s strengths, co-op opportunities, support services for international students, and industry connections that enhance learning and career prospects.
Akua highlights the university’s “hands-on approach to education,” which is reflected in its focus on research, innovation, and industry experience. “We are ranked #1 in Canada for research, experiential learning, and graduate employer relations,” she states, emphasising the university’s commitment to preparing students for the workforce. This robust framework equips students with both academic knowledge and practical skills that can be applied in real-world scenarios. The university boasts the largest co-op program globally, providing students with unparalleled opportunities to gain significant work experience while they study. “Our co-op students completed nearly 25,000 work terms last year, earning between $9,600 and $22,500 per Canadian work term,” Akua explains. “What does co-op mean for you? It means you get up to two years of relevant work experience built into your degree—testing careers, making money, building your résumé, and accessing our network of 8,000+ employers, including many of the world’s leading companies, before you even graduate.”
Ranked among the top 8% of universities globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of Waterloo is also recognised as Canada’s number one comprehensive research university. “We have a first-year residence guarantee, offer over 200 clubs, and have Canada’s largest campus recreation program,” Akua adds, highlighting a vibrant campus life that supports both academic and personal growth.
The integration of co-op and internship opportunities into the university’s curriculum is a defining feature of its educational model. “The University of Waterloo has co-op at the core of its programs in all six faculties—Arts, Environment, Engineering, Health, Math, and Science—providing students with roughly two years of work experience,” Akua details. This not only enhances students’ employability but also significantly impacts their earning potential post-graduation. “Eighty-one percent of Waterloo co-op grads earn $60,000+ two years after graduation compared to just 44% of Ontario graduates,” she points out. Furthermore, “Ninety-six percent of our co-op grads employed six months after graduation find jobs related to skills they acquired at Waterloo, compared to 83% of all university graduates in Ontario.”
Transitioning to a new country can be daunting for international students, but the University of Waterloo has implemented extensive support services to ease this process. “With the co-op program, we have an entire infrastructure at the Tatham Centre, providing international students with workshops on résumé writing, researching careers, networking, and peer mentorship,” Akua states. The university also offers personalised career advice and job postings exclusively for its students on the Waterloo Works platform. “Our team of Regulated Immigration Consultants is available to provide support and consultation upon a student’s receipt of conditional acceptance at Waterloo and during their time at the university,” she adds, ensuring that students have the resources they need to navigate their new environment.
Cultural diversity and community support are cornerstones of the university experience for international students. “There are a range of resources available to all international students provided by the Student Support team,” Akua explains. “From support during student orientation, such as banking assistance and on- and off-campus housing supports, to understanding the health insurance system in Ontario, we strive to create a welcoming environment.” The International Peer Community hosts various cultural and engagement activities throughout the semester, fostering connections that enhance students’ overall experience in Canada.
The University of Waterloo’s strong connections with local industries play a significant role in enhancing student learning and career prospects. “Students have varying opportunities to connect with industry professionals, gain mentorship, and develop their skills through research and entrepreneurship initiatives,” Akua notes. The university’s extensive employer network of over 8,000 companies spans 60 countries, resulting in an impressive 95.9% employment rate for graduates. “Our strong co-op program, research opportunities, and entrepreneurship ecosystem all contribute to students’ success,” she emphasises.
Research is a hallmark of the university’s academic environment. “The University prides itself on groundbreaking research through various institutes on campus,” Akua elaborates. “We have the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics, the Centre for Astrophysics, and Canada’s largest nanotechnology institute, the Waterloo Institute for Nano Technology.” These research centers not only foster innovation but also provide students with opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in their fields.
Entrepreneurship is another area where the university excels. “Our flagship business incubator, Velocity, equips and guides founders to build companies at the earliest stages of business development. It currently has a $26 billion USD enterprise value, with over 400 startups incubated since 2008,” Akua shares. “Every semester, students have the opportunity to pitch their ideas for a chance to win between $5,000 and $50,000 CAD to start their own companies.” This entrepreneurial spirit is further nurtured through various incubators and programs across the university’s six faculties. “Whether you are just curious about entrepreneurship or ready to launch your own venture, there’s a place for you here,” she asserts.
With a strong commitment to fostering a supportive and innovative environment, the University of Waterloo is dedicated to providing students with the tools they need for success. “Explore our innovation centers, courses, and programs tailored to your interests and skill level, and find your perfect match to propel your project or venture forward,” Akua encourages prospective students.
In summary, the University of Waterloo offers a unique blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and comprehensive support services that make it an attractive option for international students. With its commitment to fostering talent through co-op programs, industry connections, and an entrepreneurial ecosystem, the university not only prepares students for successful careers but also empowers them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. Akua’s insights highlight the advantages of choosing the University of Waterloo as a place to learn, grow, and succeed.
