gardner11e

Experiential Learning Opportunities

As discussed earlier, a variety of activities and programs exist in which you can participate to confirm not only that your career plan is on track, but also gain valuable skills. Gaining experience in your field while in college can help you meet people who may later serve as important references for graduate school or employment. It can also teach you things you won’t learn in the classroom!

Here are a number of ways to pursue this experience:

338

Service learning and volunteer activities. Service learning allows you to apply academic theories and ideas to actual practice. Some instructors build service learning into their courses, but if this option isn’t available, consider volunteering. Volunteering is also a valuable way to encounter different life situations and gain knowledge in areas such as teaching, health services, counseling, and tax preparation. A little time spent each week can provide immense personal and professional rewards and allow you continued self-exploration.
Study abroad. Awareness of other cultures expands your diversity of thought and exposure to people different than you. If possible, take courses in another country so that you can learn about a different culture, experience new traditions, and practice a different pace of life. Many colleges provide short- and long-term options, so find an opportunity that works best for your class and work schedule. Some study-abroad programs also include options for both work and service-learning experiences. If that interests you, find out how financial aid applies to study abroad.
Internships and co-ops. The knowledge and skills that students acquire in the classroom are taken to the real world through internships and co-operative (co-op) education, giving students an opportunity to gain relevant work experience. Employers want to see that you have experience in the professional workplace and have gained an understanding of the skills and competencies necessary to succeed. As an added bonus, many majors offer academic credit for internships. Check with your academic department and your career center to find out what internships are available in your major. Remember that with one or more internships on your résumé, you’ll be a step ahead of students who ignore this valuable experience.
Student projects and competitions. In many fields students engage in competitions based on what they have learned in the classroom. For example, civil engineering students build concrete canoes, and marketing majors develop campaign strategies. They might compete against teams from other colleges or universities. In the process they learn teamwork, communication, and applied problem-solving skills.
Research. An excellent way to extend your academic learning is to work with a faculty member on a directed research project. Research extends your critical-thinking skills and provides insight into a subject above and beyond your books and class notes. This experience also allows you greater exposure to faculty members who become mentors and professional advocates.

co-operative (co-op) education Paid work assignments that provide students with an opportunity to use their education and apply it to the workplace. In co-operative education a term of work alternates with a term of school.