Experience tells you about yourself. Every time you put yourself in a new situation, you learn more about about your strengths, what you enjoy, what you don't like, and what kinds of things you want to experience more of.
There are many ways to build experience and engage with the world around you. Below are some ideas to help you get started.
Experience is the best teacher! Trying things out can give you helpful information right away. What will you try next?
Leadership & Working with Others
Joining a student organization is a great way to pursue your interests, develop new interests, and practice getting to know others (networking). A student org can also help develop your leadership and organizational skills through taking on a leadership role. With over 600 organizations, you are sure to find something that fits.
You can also find ways to engage and build experience outside of organizations. Check out the University Events Calendar. If you want help getting started, consider make an appointment with a university engagement advisor.
Student Organizations
Participating in a campus organization can be a great way to find opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. It's also a good way to find new friends.
Volunteering & Community Engagement
Volunteering can help you build your skill, learn new skills, connect with others, and even boost your sense of happiness. Helping others can also help you discover what matters to you. There are opportunities for those who have never volunteered before as well as those who have. You can find explore options through the Division of Student Life, including lists of organizations in search of volunteers, Hawkeye Service Breaks, and the ability to schedule volunteer advising.
Community Engaged Courses allow you to apply what you are learning in a course with hands-on experience and the chance to make a positive difference in the community.
Volunteering
There are many organizations that need help, and many ways to give back. The Office of Leadership and engagement maintains lists of local agencies seeking volunteers across a way range of areas, including: advocacy, animals, mental wellness, and youth / family support.
Community Engaged Courses
Community-Engaged Courses provide opportunities for students to apply the technical skills and knowledge learned throughout their academic career to work with community partners to solve the economic, environmental, social-cultural, and public health challenges facing today's world.
Internships & Student Employment
Trying out different roles can help you determine what you enjoy and what you would prefer to avoid. Additionally, many jobs will help you build transferable skills (communication, critical thinking, etc.), which consistently rank among the top desirable qualities for employers.
The Pomerantz Career is an excellent resource to help you find internships and potential jobs while you are a student.
Internships
Completing an internship in the career field you are aiming for or even at the company you would like to work at can considerably boost your chances of getting hired.
Start learning now about how to search for and land an internship you are excited about.
Student Employment
Having a job in college can benefit you far beyond the added income it brings. It can help you discover interests and preferences, develop professionalism and working with others, and give you confidence in applying for subsequent positions.