Experiential Learning
Gaining experience in your field while in college can help you meet people who may later serve as important employment references. The experience can also teach you things you won’t learn in the classroom. Here are a number of ways to pursue such experience:
Volunteer Giving back to your community has many benefits to the community you serve, but it can also have tremendous personal and professional advantages. Whether you give your time to a nonprofit organization, a school, or a business, volunteering can help you develop your skill set, explore career possibilities, network, and contribute to lifelong learning, and it offers the personal satisfaction that comes when you know you are making a difference. The longer and more detailed your volunteer experience, the more benefits it will bring.
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Service-Learning Service-learning is a special category of volunteering that allows you to apply what you learn in class to actual practice. Some instructors build service-learning into their courses, but if this option isn’t available, consider making that link yourself. Ask your college success instructor for help in finding a service opportunity that would enrich your classroom learning.
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Study Abroad Awareness of other cultures expands your diversity of thought and your 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.
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Internships and Co-Ops What you learn in the classroom can be applied to the real world through internships and co-ops. An internship is a short-term, structured method of on-the-job training. As an intern, you are not likely to be paid, but you might be able to receive academic credit. Check with your academic department and 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. A co-op program allows you to alternate work experience and classes. As a co-op student, you can also have paid work assignments that provide you with an opportunity to apply what you learn to the workplace.
Student Projects and Competitions In many fields, students engage in competitions based on what they have learned in the classroom. They might compete against teams from other colleges. In the process, they learn teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
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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 can become mentors and professional advocates.