COOP’s randomized control trial

COOP will undertake a rigorous study of its services starting in 2025 in partnership with MDRC. COOP is investing in this study because we take learning seriously and are committed to ensuring our fellowship achieves the impact we aspire to.

The what and the why

The study is a randomized control trial (RCT). An RCT is a type of scientific study that works like a lottery and is used to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention or program.  

Prospective fellows will need to agree to participate in the study to be considered for our fellowship. If they agree to participate in the study and COOP accepts their application, they will be assigned via the lottery to either the COOP group (those who can take part in the fellowship) or the control group (those who cannot take part in the fellowship). Those assigned to the control group will be provided with alternative resources and can access any other services available in the community. They can also reapply to the fellowship after two years.

The lottery process also ensures access to limited fellowship spots is fair.

The goal of the study is to learn how the fellowship helps underemployed first-gen and low-income college graduates find better jobs and earn more, compared to individuals who did not participate in the fellowship. 

The when

Recruiting for the study will officially kick off in mid-March 2025 for the fall 2025 fellowship cycle. 

Planning for the future

We feel confident that this study will help us learn what works and what we can improve on so we can better serve future fellows.     

Ultimately, COOP’s goal is to learn about and enhance the effectiveness of the program, so any results —positive or negative — will be valuable for future program design.

Answers to frequently asked questions can be found here.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Stephanie Cafaro, Managing Director of Recruiting, or Jess Britt, Evaluation Strategy & RCT Consultant.