Experiential Learning Home | Experiential Learning FAQ | Partnership Organizations
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
What is experiential learning?
Experiential learning is learning by doing, taking learning out of the classroom and into the real world. At Rosemont College students do this through internships, service-learning and study abroad. Under Rosemont Works, our undergraduate curriculum, our students work toward the goal of a truly engaged learning experience. Each student is required to complete one experiential learning component prior to graduation.
Among the components students can choose from are internships, service learning programs, or study abroad opportunities. The experiential learning component will be integrally related with each student’s program of study and will provide an important link between classroom theory and actual practice.
How do I fulfill the Rosemont Works Experiential Learning Requirement?
You can fulfill the experiential learning requirement by doing an internship, taking a service-learning class and participating in the service activity, or by studying abroad.
Who can I contact if I am interested in Experiential Learning?
You can speak with your faculty advisor and with Lezlie McCabe, Coordinator of Experiential Learning, x2389 lmccabe@rosemont.edu
INTERNSHIPS
What are internships?
Internships are a form of experiential learning, a carefully supervised work or service experience in which students have clear learning goals and reflect on what they learn throughout the experience. At Rosemont College internships are an essential part of the educational process.
Under Rosemont Works, our undergraduate curriculum, students work toward the goal of a truly engaged learning experience. Each student is required to complete one experiential learning component prior to graduation. Students can choose from internships, service learning programs, or study abroad opportunities. The experiential learning component will be integrally related to each student’s program of study and will provide an important link between classroom theory and practice.
When can I do an internship?
Rosemont students can do internships after their first year beginning in the fall or spring of the sophomore year. You can do an internship part-time during the fall or spring semester, or full-time during the summer.
Are there any requirement or prerequisites?
Interns must be students in good standing and receive approval from their advisor. Students should also complete the three internship workshops offered during the fall and spring semesters.
How can I enroll in an internship?
Ask your advisor or the Coordinator of Experiential Learning. They can help you to find a company or an organization that fits your interests and your learning goals.
How long are student internships?
Internships usually last one semester, or fifteen weeks, though they may last longer.
What kind of companies or organizations partner with Rosemont College?
Our students major in a variety of subjects and are interested in internships in many different kinds of organizations. Rosemont offers over twenty-five undergraduate majors in Art, Business, English and Communications, Foreign Languages, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Science. Among the sites where students have interned are government agencies, banks, research laboratories, publishing companies, hospitals, radio stations, and non-profit organizations.
How much time will it take?
Rosemont College student interns usually work from 8-10 hours per week. Usually students will dedicate an entire day or two or three half days per week depending on their schedule. Internships usually last one semester, or fifteen weeks, though they may last longer.
Will I be paid?
Internships may be paid or unpaid. If internships are unpaid students often receive some compensation for transportation.
What do students say about their internship experiences?
"I gained valuable insight about business, about people in business, but most importantly about myself. The experience I gained and the people I formed relationships with simply could not take place in the classroom."
Gina Kelly, sophomore
"Through my internship at Citizens for Arlen Specter, I learned a great deal about grassroots politics and the workings of a United States Senatorial campaign. I was also able to attend exciting events and meet influential individuals who were willing to answer my questions and tell me of their own career experiences. Most importantly however, I learned that few things can take the place of a strong work ethic."
Kaitlyn Woods, junior
"Living and working in New York proved to me that confidence, hard work, and professionalism are absolutely necessary to success in the working world. If I can make it there, I can make it anywhere!"
Erin McCarthy, junior
STUDY ABROAD
Can I use my federal and state financial aid to study abroad?
Yes, most forms of federal and state financial aid can be used for these study abroad programs. Student loans may also be used to study abroad.
Are scholarships available to study abroad?
Yes, there are a number of scholarships for study abroad. Some students may be eligible for the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Program, the Freeman-ASIA Scholarship, or the David L. Boren scholarship.
Why should I study abroad?
Today because of advances in information technology and transportation, the world is a much smaller place. Events that happen in other parts of the world can have a profound impact on America. Studying and traveling abroad helps students to broaden their horizons and to understand the complex world that we live in. Study abroad is also a good way to build your resume. Employers look for study abroad experience because it often indicates a high level of maturity and intercultural understanding.
Where can I study?
While the College has several study abroad partners in Austria, France, Ghana, and Italy, students may choose to study abroad in other countries. Interested students may consult their advisors and the Coordinator of Experiential Learning.
SERVICE-LEARNING
What is Service Learning?
Service-learning is a form of experiential education that is integrated into a class, involves students in service activities outside the classroom, and includes reflection on the experience.
Do I have to participate in the service outside the classroom?
If the class is a service-learning class then service is an integral part of the course curriculum, however, students who are unable may do research to replace the service component.
How do I know if a class is a service-learning class?
Service-learning classes are indicated on the class schedule and instructors will indicate this on their course syllabus.