Following a successful introduction in the spring of 2024, Drew University will continue to participate in the Council of Independent Colleges’ Work-Based Learning Consortium.
As one of 25 institutions selected for this prestigious program in July 2023, this program allows students to participate in immersive work-based learning opportunities which are integrated into existing or new intermediate and upper-level courses. These experiences provide opportunities to network, develop transferable skills and build resumes. This program will incorporate Riipen, the number one experiential learning platform for educators, learners and employers.
This multi-year initiative aligns with the university’s core values of experiential learning, and regardless of location or other commitments, these work-based learning courses offer flexibility for students.
“By blending hands-on learning with academic instruction, students get the best of both worlds–practical experience in a professional setting, while still having the support of their course instructor and employer. This safety net allows them to put important career-readiness skills, like critical thinking, leadership and professionalism, into practice without the pressure of doing it all on their own,” said Stacy Fischer, executive director of Launch.
Fischer also notes that the program aligns seamlessly with the goals of Launch, the unique career development program at Drew. “Work-based learning gives students that crucial real-life experience, helping them feel more prepared for life after graduation,” said Fischer.
When the program launched last spring, select courses, including Digital Video and the Computer Science Capstone integrated the program. Building on that success, these courses will return alongside a new addition: Consumer Behavior. Christopher Andrews, associate professor and Chair of Sociology, will be teaching this course, and he anticipates students developing and gaining crucial transferable skills while participating in the course.
“I think the major ones will be project management, teamwork and maintaining an open channel of communication to their partner company. These cannot be taught with a textbook, so it is exciting that we will have this opportunity to match students with real companies to work on real projects,” said Andrews.
Similar to other immersive experiences at Drew, students exploring career options will benefit from taking advantage of these work-based learning courses as they can explore without the pressure of fully committing to a path. “They’re a low-stakes way to test the waters, see what excites you and learn more about yourself in the process,” said Fischer.
Looking forward, Drew University will continue to assess the impact of these work-based learning experiences on students, faculty and employers. The feedback will help shape the future of experiential education on campus.
Benjamin Castro is a senior majoring in marketing & business and minoring in history.
Featured image courtesy of Pexels.com.
