Why Experiential Learning is Important

An internship is a professional learning experience that offers meaningful, practical work related to a student’s field of study or career interest. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent. Experiential learning opportunities, including internships, service learning, job simulations, and micro-internships allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments, enhancing their academic and career trajectories.

👉INFO SHEETS, GUIDELINES, AND CHECKLIST!

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), these experiences are highly valuable as they provide students with the skills and experience that employers seek, thus enhancing employment prospects post-graduation. NACE emphasizes the importance of these opportunities as they contribute significantly to student development and employability, bridging the gap between academic theories and practical application.

According to data from NACE's 2019 Student Survey:

  • Students who had completed at least one internship were more likely to receive a job offer before graduation
  • The more internships a student completed, the more job offers they tended to receive
  • For salary, interns generally received higher starting salary offers compared to non-interns

For detailed and updated statistics and insights, NACE regularly publishes comprehensive reports and surveys on their website: https://www.naceweb.org.

At American International College (AIC), we view experiential learning as a cornerstone of your education. Internships, practicums, clinicals, and fieldwork are integral components of the curriculum across all our schools. These hands-on experiences are designed to enhance the academic rigor of our programs with real-world application, ensuring that our students not only learn but also apply their knowledge in practical settings. Recognizing the immense value these experiences bring, we have expanded our commitment to experiential learning within the School of Business, Arts, and Sciences (BAS). Starting with the 2024-2025 academic year and the Class of 2028, it will be a requirement for students in all majors in the School of BAS to complete an internship before graduating. This exciting change underscores our dedication to preparing AIC students for successful careers by equipping them with the necessary skills and experiences to excel in their chosen fields.

To learn more about internships and experiential learning, please reach out to a career advisor in the Saremi Center for Career Development at Saremi.Center@aic.edu, 413-654-1411, or stop by and visit us on campus!