Over the past twelve years, I have observed the transformative effects of experiential education. I believe in its purpose and value in the education of our students and its long- term role in shaping lifelong learning behaviors.

Experiential education empowers, motivates and actively engages students in what is being learned in the classroom. As an effective educational strategy, experiential education programs build confidence, develop skills, and provide students with “hands-on” work and learning experiences. It is the way that many learn.

Experiential education programs are highly valued at Seton Hall University, because they carry out the University’s mission by providing the hands-on learning experiences that prepare students to be leaders in their professional and community lives. While every undergraduate student participates in a community service/volunteer project, more than 60 percent also participate in a “career-based” experiential education program prior to graduation. Career based programs include student teaching, clinicals, practicums, field placements and internship experiences. In collaboration with the academic departments and faculty advisors, The Career Center oversees all of the University’s Internship program. More than 500 students participate in a internship each year.

The University’s servant leadership values are incorporated into competency based evaluation tools and reflection questionnaires that are integrated into all of the University’s experiential education programs. Learning agreements (PDF) developed between /internship faculty advisors and students are utilized to structure desired learning outcomes.

Our experiential education employer partners are carefully selected for their commitment to providing quality learning experiences for our students. Employer partners agree to offer challenging work experiences that provide on-going supervision and feedback to the student. Their partnership in the development of our students provides a real world perspective and assists students in defining or affirming postgraduate goals.

To celebrate experiential education at Seton Hall and acknowledge the contributions of our students, the Career Center in collaboration with the colleges and schools sponsors an annual Experiential Education Awards program. During this Awards ceremony, students are acknowledged for excellence in their experiential education program, demonstrating servant leadership values, and for contributions and accomplishments in their community, academic and professional lives.

Jacquline Chaffin
Director, The Career Center