One of the best ways to make the most out of your college years is by diving into experiential learning. Read on to learn the top five reasons you should jump on this train and how it can supercharge your future.
Let’s be real – the job market is competitive. Employers are looking for candidates who have more than just a degree. They want experience. Experiential learning allows you to have real experience on your resume. An internship at a marketing firm, a research project in environmental science, or a study abroad program in international relations – these are the experiences that will make you stand out from the crowd. Our Career Services Center stands ready to help
Ever sat through a lecture and wondered, “When am I ever going to use this?” Experiential learning is the answer. Instead of just reading about theories and concepts, you get to apply them in real-life situations. Think internships, co-ops, study abroad programs, and service-learning projects. Imagine studying business management and then actually managing a project for a local company. You get to see the impact of your work and understand the concepts on a deeper level. For help finding a range of internships, co-ops, or micro-internships, head over to our Center for Student Excellence.
College is all about finding out who you are and what you love to do. Experiential learning can help you discover your true passion. Maybe you’re a business major and discover your passion for project management because you worked with a real company? Maybe you’re a marketing major and discover your love for positioning strategy. These experiences can open your eyes to new possibilities and career paths you might not have considered.
You’ve probably heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” Experiential learning provides fantastic networking opportunities. You’ll meet professionals in your field, connect with mentors, and make contacts that can help you land your dream job after graduation. Plus, you’ll make new friends and build a support network that can last a lifetime. A great way to build your network is attending Business Week 2024 event in September!
There’s nothing like real-world experience to boost your confidence. When you see that you can successfully apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world challenges, your self-esteem skyrockets. You’ll also develop essential skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These are the skills that will not only help you in your career but in every aspect of your life.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into those internships, co-ops, and study abroad programs. Take on that service-learning project. Experiential learning is your ticket to a richer, more engaging college experience and a brighter future. 🚀
