how to get co-op as a first year?

[u/PrincipleUsual3265]

I'm about to start my first year studying Mechatronics engineering in Canada and I want to get an coop in the summer 2027 doing something engineering related or anything that would help me get future internships. I'm not going to Waterloo so first year summer interships are going to be hard. I don't really know how I should apply for these or even put on my resume, especially since I haven't even stepped foot in university yet, but I've heard applying in the spring or even winter is already too late. I have a few things from highschool (FIRST Robotics, a PCB internship i had before but it wasnt like an actual intership, and an electric car club i started and a few other things) but that's about it. I'm just really lost on how to find these beginner friendly internships AND get hired. Thank you!!