Internships & Experiential Learning

Ways to Get Career-Related Experience during College

• Experiential Learning

  Experiential learning is learning by doing. It emphasizes the importance of experience and its role in the learning process. At DeSales University, we offer numerous opportunities for students to gain experience, develop career competencies, and expand their network. To learn more, listen to our podcast on Experiential Learning.

• Internships

  Internships are experiences in a professional setting that allow students to apply academic theories learned in the classroom.  Internships enable students to gain the critical experience and transferable skills that employers seek in new hires. Internships can be paid or unpaid and may be done for academic credit within the student's major. Learn more about the value of internships.

  Micro-internships are short-term, project-based work that enhances skills and may last anywhere from 5-40 hours.  For more information on Micro-Internships, check out  Parker-Dewey.

• Externships

  Externships provide a way to further explore a career field through an informational interview or a job shadow. An informational interview is a conversation with a professional to gather and discuss information about a particular field of interest. T

  A job shadow is an on-site experience that allows you to observe a professional in their workplace. 

  The Career Development Center has a list of DSU Mentors; DeSales Alumni ready to connect with students for these learning opportunities.

• Volunteering

  Volunteering is a great way to get a foot in the door of an organization or career field.  Volunteer work can be done as an individual or with a club. Volunteering is a great way for students to develop skills and build a strong resume.  To get involved, check out the DeSales Center for Faith and Justice.

  Learn more about the value of volunteering.

• Undergraduate Research

  Undergraduate research is traditionally done through a one-on-one arrangement between the student and a faculty member within their academic department for academic credit. Students should check in with faculty in their area of interest. Undergraduate research is highly recommended for students interested in applying to graduate school.

• Part-Time & Summer Jobs

  Part-time and summer jobs can be a way to get experience and develop transferable skills in an area relevant to the student's career field or industry. Students can check out Handshake for thousands of opportunities.

• Leadership in Student and Community Organizations

  Leadership in student and community organizations is viewed favorably and valued by employers.  Students don't have to be the president of the group, just take on a leadership role, like recruiting volunteers or taking a role in an event. The goal is to add and layer experiences to develop those key skills that employers value.

• International Learning

  International learning allows students to develop a global perspective, cultural humility, and empathy plus experience world cultures.  Students will learn to work with diverse peers, experience new perspectives, communicate in other languages, and learn how to navigate different customs. 

  Learn more about studying abroad.