Fresh perspectives, strong skills: master of arts in economics co-operative degree launches during Work-Integrated Learning Month
Ref. no.: 133
Unlimited possibilities.
That’s how graduate student Hendrik Van Heerden describes his Master of Arts in Economics Co-operative Internship Option Program at Memorial University.
“I love how vast the field of economics is,” said Mr. Van Heerden, who is from Gander, N.L. “By studying it, I also learn about other disciplines such as statistics, history and philosophy, giving me a well-rounded education.”
Personal and academic growth
The combines advanced classroom instruction with on-the-job learning.
Joining Mr. Van Heerden as the first two students to enrol in the program is Mexico’s Alejandra Robles Aguilar.
The pair has just begun the search for work terms for September 2026.
Ms. Robles Aguilar, who came to Memorial on the urging of her brother, also a Memorial University graduate student, says enrolling in the program has been an important step in her personal and academic growth.
“I’m excited to apply the economic theory we study in class to real-world challenges through the co-op. program,” she said. “As an international student, gaining Canadian work experience is especially meaningful to me, and I’m eager to explore opportunities where I can contribute using the knowledge acquired during my courses.”
‘Advanced training and expertise’
Dr. Lynn Gambin is the department head of economics; for her, the co-operative education program allows students to explore career possibilities and make important connections to employers across a range of industries and organizations.
She says Memorial’s economics students are highly qualified and they bring fresh perspectives, strong practical skills and a sound understanding of economics that sets them apart in any workplace.
“I am pleased that this opportunity has been extended to our graduate students so employers can discover first-hand the real contributions that Memorial students with advanced training and expertise in economics can make,” Dr. Gambin said.
Theresa Mackenzie, an academic staff member in co-operative education, says she’s delighted to welcome Mr. Van Heerden and Ms. Robles Aguilar into the Master of Arts in Economics Co-operative Internship Option Program and to launch the program during National Work-Integrated Learning Month.
“Both students are motivated to put their skills in economics to work and would be an asset to any employer in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors,” Ms. Mackenzie said. “I look forward to seeing where they go next.”
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Mr. Van Heerden is available for an interview. To arrange an interview time or for more information, please contact Chad Pelley, manager of media relations and communications for Memorial University, at chad.pelley@mun.ca or 709-853-4281.