Experiential learning gives you an opportunity to do hands-on work in the field, whether it’s a healthcare practicum or an internship at a local business. It can look different for every area of study, but the most important aspect is how transformational experiential learning can be.
We asked our academic advisors and field support specialists what’s so special about getting supervised experience in your field before graduation. Here are the most important things to know.
Networking: You just might be introduced to your future employer.
Your online and classroom work is always vital, but the real-world experience you receive through experiential learning can take you all kinds of places, in part because of the opportunity for administrators and business leaders to see you in action. For example, look at field placements for teacher education students. These in-classroom experiences give students the opportunity to demonstrate their competency, responsibility, punctuality, and willingness to adapt and grow. Cooperating teachers and school administrators start to notice, resulting in professional references, and later, schools often look to people they know and trust to fill positions in their districts. That could be you!
Resume Prep: Say with confidence that you have experience in the field.
Getting hands-on experience not only helps you include your experience on a job application, but it lets you put theory into practice. What have you been reading about in your textbook these last few months? Hands-on learning usually allows you to engage in visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning, which may help you understand complex concepts faster. You’ll likely get a chance to try it yourself, preparing you for future practice and job opportunities.
Career Discovery: Find your passion and future career path.
Still not sure what jobs you want to apply for after graduation? That’s okay. Jessie Pablo, Director of Field Experiences, says, “Completing a Field Placement (internship) is also really great for professional development because it helps students confirm if this is a specific population or setting they would like to work in and/or be the affirmation to lead them in a different direction. This is always nice to do before committing to a specific job.” Without having to commit to employment, experiential learning offers a supportive environment, helping you learn to make decisions and feel the impact you make in a real work setting. It’s very possible that this hands-on experience could lead to your lifelong passion.
See which degree programs at IWU offer experiential learning opportunities and find out how you can work toward a placement during your program. Visit IWUisHow.com to learn more.