Experiential Learning is a hands-on approach to career development that involves actively engaging in real-world experiences, such as internships, volunteering, projects, and research, to acquire practical skills, deepen understanding, and build a strong professional network. By immersing yourself in diverse environments and applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, experiential learning equips you with the essential competencies and global mindset needed to excel in today’s competitive landscape.
Here are 10 ways you can gain real-world experience to boost your professional development:
1. Internships
Gain direct experience in your desired field, network with professionals, and apply theoretical knowledge through a part-time or full-time internship (sometimes for credit!) Not sure where to start in seeking an internship opportunity? Visit Villanova’s Resource Collection for Finding Jobs and Internships on Career Connections or make an appointment with the Career Center.
2. Externships
Externship/Leadership programs are typically one to several days in length and are hosted on-site by a company. The experiences often include an introduction to the organization and overview of available career paths, professional skill-building opportunities, and networking with professionals from the host organization. Some employers use their programs to identify students to whom they wish to extend internship offers for the following summer. All externship/leadership programs are non-credit bearing. A variety of industries may offer externship experiences, but they are most popular in business settings. Check out the VSB Featured Externships collection in Handshake for a sample of open business programs.
3. Job Shadowing
Shadowing a professional can be a great way to learn about a particular career and to see what it’s like to work in that field. You can find Villanova alumni to connect with through the Nova Network and even filter by individuals open to providing shadowing experiences.
4. Academic & Capstone Projects
The classroom is a great place to apply your learning. Many academic programs offer projects and capstone experiences that simulate real-world challenges. You work in teams to solve a problem – sometimes in collaboration with a company or organization.
5. Research
Participating in or conducting research, whether through your university or independently, can deepen your expertise in a specific subject area and provide valuable experience in data collection, analysis, and critical thinking. Villanova’s Center for Research and Fellowships is a great place to start!
6. Study Abroad
These programs often include immersive experiences like working on local projects, service learning, or internships in another country, helping you gain a global perspective and key competencies that will impress any employer. Learn where you can take your Villanova education with the Office of Education Abroad.
7. Case Competitions & Hackathons
Participating in case competitions allows you to solve business problems in a competitive setting. It’s a great way to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. Hackathons allow you to collaborate on projects, often under time constraints, to develop innovative solutions. They’re particularly popular in tech, engineering, and design fields. Learn more through Villanova’s Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship!
8. Service Learning & Volunteering
Enroll in courses that combine academic learning with community service. You’ll apply classroom knowledge to real-world community issues, often gaining practical skills and experience in the process. Volunteering can provide hands-on experience engaging with non-profits, community organizations or causes that align with your interests – especially in fields like healthcare, education, or public policy.
9. Student Organizations & Leadership Roles
Joining or leading a student organization can develop your leadership, teamwork, and project management skills. Some organizations even run real-world projects or have partnerships with businesses. Consider taking on a role or joining a committee related to your career interests. Villanova has hundreds of student organizations to join!
10. Side Hustles
Offering your skills on a freelance or consulting basis can allow you to work on real-world projects, build a portfolio, and gain experience in fields like writing, design, marketing, or data analysis (check out Parker Dewey). Starting your own business or project, even on a small scale, can teach you about business planning, marketing, financial management, and problem-solving. Taking on a personal project in an area of interest to you can be a great way to learn new skills and challenge yourself.
BONUS: Villanova’s Immersion Programs
Whether you have an interest in policymaking, film, entrepreneurship or public relations, Villanova’s immersion programs have a spot for you. Explore Washington D.C., New York City, Silicon Valley and Los Angeles with fellow Wildcats who share your passions. These once in a lifetime experiences allow students to explore various aspects of their chosen field, meet professionals and alumni in organized networking events, and gain specific skills to help you secure your dream job. Learn more about Villanova on the Hill (Washington DC), Villanova on Set (Los Angeles), Villanova in the Valley (San Francisco Bay Area), and Villanova at the Agency (New York) to see if a Villanova Immersion Program is right for you.
