Meet Caitlyn, a Talent Acquisition Coordinator at Commonwealth Financial Network, who is passionate about supporting early career talent. Caitlyn graduated in 2023 from UMass Lowell with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Marketing & Management. While in school, she gained hands-on industry experience through a co-op at Franklin Templeton Investments (formerly Putnam Investments) from January to June 2022. Now working on the other side of the hiring process, Caitlyn shares her perspective on what makes students stand out and how they can successfully transition from co-op roles to full-time positions.
What are the main qualities you look for when hiring a co-op student or intern?
One of the top qualities I look for is genuine enthusiasm—you can immediately tell when a student is excited to learn and contribute. That mindset is key in a fast-paced, professional environment. Interns and co-ops may not have extensive experience, but a willingness to ask questions, take initiative, and absorb information makes a significant difference.
Equally important are strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with others. Even as a co-op, you’ll likely interact with different teams or departments, so being able to clearly express ideas, listen well, and contribute to group efforts is crucial. We want students who are not just capable, but who elevate the people they work with by being reliable and respectful teammates.
How can students stand out in the hiring process?
Standing out in the hiring process begins with being intentional and prepared. One way to do this is by tailoring your resume to highlight the experiences and skills that directly relate to the role you’re applying for. Recruiters appreciate it when students take the time to understand the job description and show how their background connects.
Demonstrating a strong work ethic is another key factor. That can come through in your past work experience, your extracurricular involvement, or even the way you speak about your responsibilities. Show that you’re willing to go the extra mile and are genuinely invested in the work.
And don’t underestimate the power of a positive attitude. A can-do, solutions-oriented mindset can really set you apart—especially when combined with curiosity and a readiness to grow. Employers notice when someone brings energy and optimism into the room.
What is a common interviewing mistake that you see when interviewing undergrads?
The most common mistake I see is when candidates come into an interview without having done enough research about the company or the role. When someone hasn’t taken the time to learn about what we do or can’t articulate why they’re interested in the position, it sends a message that they might not be fully invested.
It’s so important to go beyond just skimming the company website. Read recent news articles, understand the organization’s mission, explore the team or department you’d be working in. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer. This kind of preparation shows maturity, professionalism, and commitment—qualities that can really differentiate a candidate.
What features does a co-op student showcase while working for you that lead you to want to hire them full-time after graduation?
There are a few standout qualities that make us take notice of a co-op student as a potential future full-time hire. First is a positive attitude—someone who remains engaged and upbeat, even when facing challenges or repetitive tasks, shows resilience and professionalism.
We also look for students who show they can work independently and within a team. That means managing their workload with minimal supervision, but also knowing when to ask for help or collaborate with others to get the job done better. Initiative, accountability, and emotional intelligence all play a role here.
Finally, we’re drawn to students who treat their co-op not just as a learning experience but as an opportunity to add real value to the team. Whether they suggest improvements, take ownership of projects, or go above and beyond in their daily work, these are signs they’re ready to grow—and worth investing in long-term.
Interested in doing a co-op like Caitlyn did?
UMass Lowell’s Undergraduate Co-op Program gives students the opportunity to gain full-time, paid work experience while earning credit toward graduation. Co-op students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom, build professional networks, and explore potential career paths—all before finishing their degree.
You can learn more about the co-op program by visiting the Undergraduate Co-op Program website. Have questions or want personalized guidance? Reach out to one of the co-op advisors listed on the Co-op Advising Team page. They’re here to help you make the most of your co-op experience and launch your career with confidence.