GAIN EXPERIENCE
Experiential Learning helps students gain experience outside the classroom. This helps students develop knowledge, skills, and values from direct experiences including internships, co-ops, service-learning, and job shadowing.
Internships
An internship is a temporary work experience that allows you to apply classroom learning to real-world settings. Internships may be paid or unpaid, full-time or part-time, local, national, or international and can be with corporate and private businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Students can complete internships during the academic year as well as during the summer. Many programs strongly encourage or even require an internship, and students can often earn academic credit for an approved internship.
For assistance with finding an internship, students can schedule an appointment with Experiential Learning via Handshake or visiting our Internship Search Resources List.
Co-ops
Cooperative Education (Co-op), like an internship, is an academic program that allows students to apply classroom theory in a real-world setting. Co-op experiences take place over multiple semesters and are always paid. Students can register multiple semesters of experience in a co-op program, either for credit, or zero credit.
Internships Abroad
Studying in another country transforms students’ educational and personal perspectives and enhances their future development in profound ways. UCF offers students a variety of options for international experiences. For information on international experiences, visit Study Abroad.
Service-Learning
Service-learning (SL) is a teaching method that enables students to apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to meaningful service to the community. Service-learning combines classroom learning goals and community service in a way that enhances or benefits both the student and the community
Job Shadowing
Job shadowing can be a great way to expand your network and get a real-world glimpse of a specific role, work environment or field. Experiential Learning facilitates the UCF Job Shadow Program, which provides students the opportunity to participate in a one-day shadow experience with industry professionals. Job shadow sessions are held during the fall and spring semesters. Visit Handshake and search “UCF Job Shadow” to search and apply for opportunities. For information on the UCF Job Shadow Program, contact jobshadow@ucf.edu.