In agreeance with akashranpura along with multiple others who posted above, I would definitely stress the value of a Co-op and/or internship. These real world experiences are immensely valuable because they give you insight to the nuances of industry and help guide you on an eventual career path. As Dr. Simon said in his intro video, these opportunities are extremely helpful even if you do not partake in the perfect role that suites your interest. Sometimes, a mediocre or even a bad stint at a company can be just as good pointing you in the eventual direction of your career by showing what you don’t want to do.

In addition, answering the concern about acquiring internships, I would highly recommend having any work experience over none. In my undergraduate days, I was unable to find a paid internship my sophomore year so I chose to volunteer in a research lab at Rowan University. Although not with my favorite professor, nor my intended career path, that experience proved to be invaluable come the next summer in helping me secure my internship at a big pharma company.