Hands-on, practical experiences and learning often provide the insight needed to determine if a major and/or a career path is the one to consider. Through Experiential Learning (EL) opportunities, which include but are not limited to – internships, co-ops, research, clinicals, practica, student teaching, campus leadership, and volunteerism/service, you will gain understanding about the industry as well potentially develop new or transferable skills and enhance your career competencies. Sometimes too, an EL opportunity will be extended or converted to a full-time option after graduation.
Below are eight EL categories of resources and options through the UConn Career Center, the UConn system, and even beyond our campuses, to guide and help you make good career related decisions.
Internships
Whether you have already had one or are preparing for your first one, you are sure to find content relevant to your situation – including definitions, course credit, funding sources, and a sample learning agreement.
Co-ops
Co-ops are full-time, paid positions that last over the course of a semester, and students take few or no classes, yet retain full-time status, for a low enrollment fee.
Research & Fellowships
Students can participate in research and fellowship opportunities at academic institutions, at research centers and institutes, at non-profits/NGOs, in industry, and within government at all levels. These learning experiences build transferable skills and allow you to explore and prepare for a career in the field of research and/or graduate school. Utilize the resources below to learn more.
Community Outreach & Volunteering
Learn how you can get engaged with local and non-local communities to make a long-lasting impact. Resources include UConn-affiliated programs, opportunities abroad, and information about service-based careers.
Leadership & Campus Involvement
UConn has hundreds of clubs, as well as robust student employment offerings. In addition, students can participate in non-academic certificates that will supplement classroom learning.
Shadowing & Industry-Specific Resources (Health, Law, Education)
View information on informational interviews and job shadows, which are relevant to any industry, as well as clinicals, pre-law, pre-health, and education & social services resources.