“Experiential education is the process of actively engaging students in an authentic experience that will have benefits and consequences. Students make discoveries and experiment with knowledge themselves instead of hearing or reading about the experiences of others. Students also reflect on their experiences, thus developing new skills, new attitudes, and new theories or ways of thinking (Kraft & Sakofs, 1988).” Opportunities at Randolph College include:

• Gaining hands-on experience by becoming an intern.
• Exploring the world through study abroad
• Traveling and participating in class discussions with guest speakers through the American Culture Program
• Working closely with a professor doing summer research
• Observing and informational interviewing through externships
• Serving the community as a volunteer with short and long-term projects
• Contributing to a service learning project as part of a class

Why participate?

• Explore your interests and abilities, so you can make informed decisions about career options.
• Be more competitive in today's job market by having experiences that build a solid resume.
• Apply and observe concepts you have learned in the classroom in real-life environments.
• Make valuable contacts with professionals in your field of interest.

Career Development

Through effective communication and collaboration, we help students make meaningful connections between their academic goals and life-long pursuits. 

It's your life. We can help you decide what to do with it. We offer the tools and assistance to help you create a plan for your future and achieve your goals.

• Career Assessments and Counseling
• Job Search Skills
• Resume & Cover Letter Advice
• Mock Interviews
• Graduate & Professional School Information
• Job Fairs
• Credential Files
• Career Resource Library
• Learn more...

Internships

The SOLUTION to the age-old dilemma, “How can I get a job without experience and how can I get experience without a job?” Gain experience in the field or organization that interests you and confirm your career interests. An internship involves higher level responsibilities with more supervision and reflection on the experience. Learn more...

Study Abroad

We believe that acquiring an understanding of other cultures is an essential part of your education. To help you explore the world, Randolph College offers a wide variety of study abroad options.  By learning and living abroad, you will broaden your perspective while gaining the cross-cultural skills needed to succeed in a global society.  Learn more…

The American Culture Program

Go behind the scenes while studying America's diverse cultures. Learning in this program is more than sitting in a lecture hall; it is about firsthand experience. Through a combination of classroom lectures and discussions, guest speakers and road trips, you will examine the ways Americans see themselves, their values, their history, their contributions to the world, and their role in the world today. Students in the program come from all over the country and the world, and faculty come from a broad range of disciplines. One thing is for sure—there is no other program like the American Culture Program in America. Learn more...

Volunteer Opportunities

Randolph College students contribute more than 5,500 volunteer hours each year to more than 100 community organizations. They work at soup kitchens, build homes, help at arts organizations, tutor children, and much more. Volunteering is a great way to get hands-on experience while giving something back to the Lynchburg community.  Contact the ELC for information and opportunities.

Research Programs

Imagine spending an entire summer focused on your favorite subject, working closely with a professor, gaining invaluable professional skills. You can do just that in Randolph’s intensive eight-week Summer Student/Faculty Research Program. Learn more…

Externships

Get a glimpse today of what your future may be tomorrow. The Ultimate Shadow Experience offers “Extreme Career Exploration” and gives you an insider’s view of a career. It is a formalized shadowing opportunity that allows for organizational tours, informational interviews, observation, and career mentoring. Learn more...

Service Learning

Students may take a class in which they collaborate with and contribute to the community. These are special courses arranged by faculty and supported by the ELC.  Contact the ELC for more information.