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INTERNSHIPS AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING


Experiential learning is a way of learning that focuses on gaining knowledge and skills through hands-on experiences. It is about actively doing things and thinking about what you learn. There is an emphasis on practical application. This approach recognizes that meaningful learning occurs when individuals are actively involved in real-world experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts and promoting the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Experiential Learning is an important part of your education and career development.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES AT SJR STATE

Definitions:

  • Capstone Course: The Capstone course is taken in the last semester of a student’s bachelor program. Students have an option of completing a research project or an internship. 
  • Experiential Learning: Job shadowing, micro-internships, volunteering, part-time or full-time jobs in the student’s area of study. 
  • Internship, For Credit: On-the-job work experience for college credit. 
  • Internship, Not for Credit: On-the-job work experience not for college credit. 
  • Internship Instructor: SJR State faculty who is facilitating the Capstone course. 
  • Internship Site: The business where the intern will work. 
  • Internship Site Supervisor: The professional at the business to whom the intern reports.   

In order for a student to participate in a for-credit internship, they must be in a Capstone Course in the last semester of a participating bachelor program.

Student Links:
Internship Application - Please contact Dr. Karen Balcanoff to initiate the (for-credit) internship agreement process. (386) 312-4194
Bachelor and Associate Student Internship Handbook (PDF)
Intern Confidentiality Agreement (PDF)
Intern Agreement (PDF)

Internship Site (Business) Links:
Intern Evaluation Form (PDF)
Memo of Understanding (PDF)
Business Partner Internship Handbook (PDF)
Business Partner Request for Intern (PDF)



VIKING EXPERLEARN CONNECTION:

Welcome to the Viking ExperLearn Connection – your gateway to exciting opportunities for hands-on learning and career development!

Welcome to the Viking ExperLearn Connection – your gateway to exciting opportunities for hands-on learning and career development!

The Viking ExperLearn Connection can help you if you are a student at SJR State and are eager to gain valuable real-world experience while making meaningful connections with potential employers. The Viking ExperLearn Connection is here to match you with employers who are enthusiastic about hosting not-for-credit internships, job shadowing experiences, or volunteer activities. Whether you’re exploring career options, honing your skills, or seeking to make a difference in your community, we’ve got you covered.

This is how it works:

  • You register with the Viking ExperLearn Connection by providing information about yourself and the type of Experiential Learning that interests you.
  • Businesses and organizations who are interested in hosting Experiential Learning opportunities will also register with the Viking ExperLearn Connection by providing information about the type of Experiential Learning opportunities they are offering.
  • Career Services will contact you if a business that meets your criteria registers with the Viking ExperLearn Connection and provide you with the details of the opportunity.
  • You will follow up with the business or organization.

It is important that you understand that these Experiential Learning opportunities are not for academic credit. This is also not a guarantee that you will find a connection.
You will sign an agreement that states that this opportunity is independent of SJR State and we are in no way liable for any issues encountered. We are here to provide the introduction. We can also assist you with your resume, interview skills, and the application process. SJR State Career Services office highly values these opportunities, believing they will enhance your career competency in various areas, including:

  • Career Development & Management
  • Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
  • Global/Intercultural Fluency
  • Leadership
  • Oral/Written Communication
  • Professionalism
  • Teamwork/Collaboration
  • Technology

Take the first step towards your future success today. Sign up with the Viking ExperLearn Connection and embark on a journey of discovery, growth, and endless possibilities!

Viking ExperLearn Connection Student Registration

Welcome to the Viking ExperLearn Connection, your direct route to engaging with top talent from SJR State!

Are you a forward-thinking employer seeking to cultivate tomorrow’s leaders? Look no further! Our platform connects you with motivated students eager to explore the professional world through not-for-credit internships, job shadowing, or volunteer activities. It is important that you understand that this is not a guarantee that you will find a student. You will sign an agreement that states that this opportunity is independent of SJR State and we are in no way liable for any issues encountered. We are here to provide the introduction. You will also agree that the student will not be expected to work during class times. These students will not be directed by an instructor or advisor as these opportunities will not result in academic credit for the student. It will be your responsibility to guide them. However, we feel this is a great way to connect with students at SJR State who may be good candidates for more permanent positions in the future.

Forge valuable connections, share your expertise, and invest in the future workforce. This is the future of hiring! 
Join the Viking ExperLearn Connection today and conquer new horizons with the best and brightest talent from SJR State!

Viking ExperLearn Connection Business/Organization Registration



VIKING EXPERLEARN CONNECTION OPPORTUNITIES:

Internships (not for credit) - This is a “work-to-learn” experience that is not tied to academic credit at SJR State. Unlike internships that are undertaken for academic credit where students may earn credits toward their degree, this not-for-credit experience is typically pursued for the primary purpose of gaining practical work experience and enhancing one’s skills in a specific field. These experiences are often sought outside the academic credit structure and may be paid or unpaid opportunities that focus on providing valuable hands-on learning.
Viking ExperLearn Connection

Job Shadowing – This is a career exploration strategy where a student observes and follows a professional in their workplace for a short period. During the job shadowing experience, the participant has the opportunity to gain insights into the day-to-day responsibilities, tasks, and challenges associated with a specific job or profession giving the student firsthand understanding of the work environment, industry norms, and the skills required for the role.
Viking ExperLearn Connection

Volunteering – Volunteering involves students dedicating their time and skills to support a cause or organization without monetary compensation. Volunteering offers a unique avenue for personal and professional growth. Individuals not only contribute to the community but also gain valuable experiences and develop skills that enhance their overall employability. It also provides opportunities to explore diverse roles, expand networks, and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility, all of which can positively impact one’s career trajectory. Skills acquired through volunteering, such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership, can be highlighted on resumes, making individuals more attractive to prospective employers.
Viking ExperLearn Connection
Volunteer Match



OTHER EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:

Parker Dewey Micro-internships – These are projects that vary in time from around 10 hours to 40 hours. All Parker Dewey micro-internships are paid, and most are completed remotely. Unlike typical internships, these micro-internships are open to all students and students can complete as many of these micro-internships as they would like.
Parker Dewey - Internships

Part-time and Full-time Jobs – Many SJR State students participate in the workforce by holding jobs. This helps students gain soft skills that will help them in any career. Students should be intentional about their choice of jobs while going to college. The best choice is a job that will help them learn skills they will need for the career they will pursue after graduation.
Find a Job

Work-Study – This offers students the opportunity to work part-time jobs on campus to help cover educational expenses. These positions not only contribute to the student’s financial well-being but also enhance their professional development by allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
SJR State Job listings