Summer internships provide experiential learning in unique settings

Experiential learning doesn’t stop during summertime. 

Centre College students are participating in internships across the globe — three countries outside of the United States and 13 different states — that provide valuable hands-on experience, as well as networking opportunities that a summer vacation to the beach does not.

That is thanks to a “longstanding and robust” internship program through the Center for Career and Professional Development, and more specifically, involvement in Career Exploration Communities (CECs), according to Sharon Duncan, associate director of internships.

Career Exploration Communities invite students to explore career paths within six broad areas of interest, providing resources, networking connections and more along the way.

“With involvement in CECs and guidance from career coaches, students will learn about different career fields and how to search and prepare for internships within those industries,” Duncan said. “We provide students with direct access to successful professionals.”

Working with the Center for Career and Professional Development also benefits students for the simple on-the-job training that internships provide — from the Louisville Zoo to Lockheed Martin.

“Students gain insight into a career field, often deepening their curiosity and commitment to that field of work and they students come away with marketable skills, practical work experience, and valuable networking,” Duncan said.

Duncan credited the robust Centre alumni network as instrumental in helping students find internship opportunities around the world — with funding available to students who may have lodging, food or travel expenses. She said the average award for summer internships in 2023 is $1,850. 

On top of the connections built and experiential learning provided, students can earn college credit while gaining on-the-job experience.

“I think the implementation of Career Exploration Communities will equalize and demystify career readiness,” she said. “The CECs will provide all students with the opportunity for valuable networking, academic inspiration and guidance, and practical career preparation.  Internships, by nature, synthesize all of these components.”

Be on the lookout for features on students like rising senior Kaylen Storms (pictured at top at Shaker Village) throughout this summer, on the website and on social media. Interested in an internship of your own? Reach out to the CCPD!