Gain "Extra Credit" Through Experiential Learning

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 21:52:54 -0500

We often hear the question, "When should I start looking for internships and service-learning?"
Our answer: Now!

Tutoring at-risk middle school students, studying abroad in Portugal, interning at Google, and participating in summer research at the National Institute of Standards and Technology are all examples of experiential learning.

Through experiential learning, you will have a chance to learn the coveted "on the job" skills and training that many employers have at the top of their lists.  And, in some cases, you can even earn academic credit while learning!

Below are some ways that you can gain hands-on, practical experience:

The Center for Democracy and Civic Life:

Interested in strategies for initiating/bringing about social change? The Center for Democracy and Civic Life develops learning forums in which participants enact civic values and build civic capacities. Two of the Center’s initiatives are immersive learning experiences for students: the STRiVE leadership and social change retreat, and Alternative Spring Break.

Undergraduate Research:

The annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD) will take place on Wednesday, April 22! Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD) features research, scholarship, and creative work carried out by UMBC undergraduates. Student work is shared through oral presentations, posters, artistic exhibits, performances, and film. Over 300 presenters participate annually. Researchers work with faculty mentors on independent research or research that is part of the mentor’s on-going projects.

Education Abroad:

Studying abroad is one of the best ways to acquire global and intercultural skills. Research has shown that students that study abroad have greater self-confidence and maturity have better grades, and graduate from college at higher rates. Attending a Study Abroad 101 information session is the first step to study abroad at UMBC. Sessions are offered three times per week for the entire semester in Admin 301 at the following times:

Mondays at Noon

Wednesdays at 11:00 am

Thursdays at 3:00 pm

If you act quickly, you might also be to take advantage of these special programs that have extended their deadlines!

UMBC Faculty-Led: Picturing Italian Art & Culture in Context in Rome, Italy: 6-credit program (ART 329 or ART216 (C & AH GEP approved) and ART 369 or ART 392) Learn more by visiting the program brochure linked above. Extended Deadline: February 28, 2020

UMBC Faculty-Led: Child Developmental Psychology & Applied Internship in Granada, Spain: 4-credit program (PSYC200 (SS GEP) & PSYC398(Internship) Learn more by visiting the program brochure linked above. Extended Deadline: February 21, 2020

The Shriver Center:

The Shriver Center addresses critical social challenges by bridging campus and community through engaged scholarship and applied learning. Through the work of The Shriver Center, UMBC has become a national leader in applied learning, community engagement, and community-based service delivery.

Internships & Co-Ops:

Gaining real-world experience through internship, research, or co-op experience is one of the best ways to make yourself a competitive candidate for full-time jobs and graduate school after you graduate.

Keep an eye out for Career Month in April 2020! There will be several opportunities to connect with prospective employers who are hiring students for internships and co-ops. You have a chance to win some goodies, as well!

Remember, it is never too early to get a head start on your career! Take the first step today!