What I liked
Each semester, the paper mill hosts 8-12 co-ops. Housing is provided, so there is no rent, no utility bills, you live with all of the other co-ops, and the two houses are neighbors, about a three minute drive from the mill parking lot. There are three days of training, then each co-op is sent to a different department in the mill. I was placed in the Power Department, which has been an incredible experience. I have learned so much about power boilers and steam/gas turbines. There hasn't been much yet to do in terms of chemical engineering, but I've done a lot of process engineering and analyzing power systems and fuel/exhaust used by the boilers.
The mill is set in the cute little town of Covington, VA. If you like cities, this is NOT the place for you. There isn't much to do, so saving money is a plus, but it's very relaxed and enjoyable. There isn't much to do, but there are some really good restaurants, some amazing hiking trails, a beautiful waterfall, and an 11-mile gravel trail long the river where the train tracks used to be. Perfect if you enjoy being outdoors, or if you like quiet towns, or just want to experience a very laid-back co-op. Everyone at the mill is very friendly and super helpful. Since there isn't much to do in the town, you have a lot of down time, so I've spent most of mine so far just working overtime.
