Experiential Learning

What is experiential learning?

Experiential learning is the process through which students translate the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom into real world professional work experiences. Students will gain skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem solving, analytical thinking and writing in non-academic settings. These skills can then be applied in internships, undergraduate research and professional work experiences. The goal is to promote career development and provide students with the experience they need to be better prepared for a career.

Handshake

Handshake is the University’s off campus job board. It connects students with thousands of job and internship opportunities all over the world and is accessible to all University of Nevada, Reno students. Just login, create a profile, browse and apply to positions that have been approved through the Nevada Career Studio.

Handshake

Micro-internships

Micro-internships allow students and recent alumni to take part in short-term, professional, paid internship projects. These experiences can provide a great way to get paid while acquiring skills and building your resume.

Micro-internships

Four-Year Career Road Map

The Four-Year Career Road Map is a guide for students to find success in their future career. Learn about career related resources: career fairs, workshops, information sessions, interview preparation and opportunities to network with employers.

Review the career road map

Internship process

Faculty

It is strongly advised students plan well in advance for internships/experiential learning opportunities if they want to receive academic credit. The recommended timeline is at least one semester prior to the internship experience as it may take time to process the required documents and ensure an internship course is available.

Internship process for faculty

Students

If you do not know your advisor, please refer to the College of Liberal Arts advisors list. If you need further assistance please contact Aqueelah Thompson.

Internship process for students

Employers

All employers interested in creating a connection with the College of Liberal Arts, please contact Aqueelah Thompson to begin the process.

Internship process for employers

The importance of internships

Securing an internship is a great way to gain experiences and test-drive a career. We encourage all student to pursue at least one internship while in college, and to participate as early as your freshman/sophomore years. Students can participate in multiple internship opportunities throughout their academic career. Post-graduation, employers will be seeking students who have participated in internships, service-learning and other experiential learning opportunities.

Timeline for seeking internships for academic credit

If you would like to receive academic credit for an internship, advanced planning is essential. The process of getting an internship approved could take upwards of two months, but we encourage you to work on this the semester prior to when you wish to participate in the internship. If students do not plan in advance they may not have adequate time to collect all of the required documents and therefore may not receive academic credit. Students should seek information from their faculty advisors early in their academic planning to incorporate this valuable experience.

Coordinator Aqueelah

As the Coordinator for Student Engagement & Experiential Learning, I can assist students with identifying employment opportunities for students majoring in liberal arts. I am located in the Nevada Career Studio where we assist students with searching for jobs, internships, practicing for interviews, creating résumés and cover letters, preparing for graduate school and so much more. I am here to connect College of Liberal Arts students with the resources needed to successfully transition into a career after college.