This is a little bit similar to the practical vs information but doesn't quite fit in that discussion so creating this one.

Something that has always been on my mind is how the drive for students to be "well-rounded" has resulted in increased participation in internships, co-op programs, and other professional experiences during their college years, sometimes at the cost of a student's mental well-being. 

I have seen some people do full-time internships while being in school full-time to graduate “on time” while also getting the industry experience needed. These friends have been exhausted through the whole semester when they help that co-op/internship with no time to relax. Some colleges have been starting to offer class credits for co-op programs, like NJIT or they have students have class semesters and co-op semesters built into their program. However, the programs may not be a fix-all, mess with their financial aid, etc. 

My questions on this topic: Is it reasonable to expect students to manage both a full academic course load and significant professional work experience? Is there something you think colleges or industry can do to help foster early career development while also focusing on student well-being?

My thoughts: As the job market continues to get more competitive, students feel the need to get all this professional experience. It is reasonable for companies to look for more experienced students for entry level positions but it is unrealistic to expect students to do both work and school. Industry can help by offering more part-time options, giving students offer letters for sull-time from internships, etc. Colleges can try to build out better co-op programs and ask for student input when doing so. Colleges can also cut back some of those theoretical classes to the necessary basics and replace them with practical classes or their co-op program. There are many approaches to support students who are striving to become “well-experienced” and “well-educated” entry level employees.