[zetazeta]

I was in a similar position. Secured a co-op position for a very small company at low wages, no benefits. Two weeks later, I found out I got offered a very good internship in HK through connections.... decided not to burn bridges and stayed with my co-op position. One year later, the work experience and positive reference from that employer helped me secure a wonderful position that I'm currently still at.

It was a very very tough decision to turn down the internship, but I'm glad to say things have worked out!

My advice for you is when it comes to co-op and internship positions like this... look beyond the pay and benefits. Many professionals I've talked to (as well as reputable articles and forums such as WSO) have said that the most important thing about these student positions is the experience. Working at large, reputable companies will help you get noticed when you're applying for FT positions. It also helps immensely when you're networking. I read one article which talked about how one finance student interned at several F500 companies without pay for 2 years. This eventually helped him get many interviews when recruiting season came along, and landed him several offers.

A coworker I worked with last year, had lucrative internship/co-op experience in various large organizations throughout her undergraduate degree. She found a FT position shortly after graduating, and got a very good offer with full benefits.