Meet Alex, a driven fourth-year Computer Science student at the University of Waterloo who has already completed four successful co-op placements. Originally from Toronto, they have always been passionate about technology and innovation, spending summers developing apps for startup companies. With a recent offer for a fifth co-op at a well-known Canadian tech firm, Alex is excited about the competitive $50 CAD/hour wage, but can't help comparing it to the offers from friends in the United States who boast much higher salaries. Balancing the value of experience versus pay is a dilemma Alex navigates as they prepare for their bright future in the tech industry.