What is Experiential Learning

Experiential Learning encompasses diverse personal and professional activities, engaging you beyond the classroom to gain practical insights, develop knowledge and skills, and establish valuable professional connections, making you world-ready.

Experiential Learning opportunities range from a wide variety of enriching experiences, including service learning, faculty-led research, study abroad, student employment, cooperative education, and internships. When engaging in these applied experiences, you can reflect on the unique value of the world of work and gain confidence in your career direction.


Types of Experiential Learning

Explore all the different types of hands-on experiences you can try out!

Experiential Learning Type Community Based LearningCreative & Entrepreneurial Works Internship, Co-op & Work Based Learning Global & Sociocultural Learning
Experiential Learning Type Includes Volunteering, Service Learning, Civic Engagement Design Competitions, Project-based Learning, EntrepreneurshipInternships, Co-op, Practicum, Clinical PlacementsTravel Abroad, Virtual Exchange, Domestic, Study Away
Experiential Learning Type Professional Exploration & Development Leadership & InvolvementResearch
Experiential Learning Type Includes Mentorship, Student employment, Micro-Internship, Job ShadowCampus Involvement, Leadership Training, Summits & RetreatsIndependent Study, Faculty Lead, Community-Based

  • Discover your strengths, passions, and values
  • Develop skills and competencies that employers value
  • Stand out in a competitive job market with real-world experience
  • Gain confidence in your career direction and make informed decisions
  • Prepare for a career that is rapidly changing and evolving
  • Build your network and make lasting connections: Collaborate with professionals, alumni, and peers on projects and experiences that can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and lifelong relationships.

Get Started & Take Action Today!

Take the first step towards transforming your journey with Experiential Learning:

  • Check out the Experiential Learning Student Guide to start planning and exploring opportunities
  • Meet with a Career Coach in the C3 to discuss finding meaningful experiences that align with your goals and interests
  • Check out the Experiential Learning Dashboard to discover opportunities across the UF campus
  • Share your story through blog writing and testimonials about the exciting Experiential Learning opportunities you’ve had!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to transform your journey with Experiential Learning. Explore the Career Hub for opportunities, resources, and guidance to help you succeed in your academic and professional pursuits.


Experiential Learning Dashboard

Find more ways to get involved with experiential learning at UF by accessing the Experiential Learning Dashboard. The Experiential Learning Dashboard is a comprehensive and searchable database of experiential learning opportunities that  students at the University of Florida can use to identify ways to get involved and gain meaningful experiences inside or outside the classroom. 

University Recognized Experiences Student Spotlight 

Experiential learning at UF just got a major upgrade: the University Recognized Experience (URE) is now officially live, giving students a clear and meaningful way to self‑report the hands‑on learning they’re already doing. Whether it’s an internship, research project, leadership …

By Alana Cordero
Alana Cordero Career Coach for Experiential Learning
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Elevate Your UF Experience: How to Document a University Recognized Experience

What is a University Recognized Experience (URE)? A URE is a co-curricular or “non-credit”, career-related experience that gives you hands-on, real-world experience as a valuable part of your learning journey. These experiences go beyond the classroom, allowing you to develop …

By Alana Cordero
Alana Cordero Career Coach for Experiential Learning
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Looking for Something Cool to Do Thursday Night? Check Out Convergence 🎮🎨

If you’re going to be on campus this Thursday evening—or need a fun reason to stick around—you won’t want to miss Convergence, the Digital Worlds Institute’s annual showcase of student work.

Convergence takes place on Thursday, April 23, from …

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Looking for an internship or research experience for Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 that helps you build real-world skills while earning academic credit? The Active Learning Program (ALP) may be the perfect opportunity for you.

What Is the Active Learning …

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The University of Florida is launching the Gator Experience Record (GER), a new way to recognize and showcase what you’re learning and doing at UF, both inside and outside the classroom. The University of Florida is the first university to …

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Contact & Location

Phone
352-392-1601
Address

J. Wayne Reitz Union
Suite 1300
PO Box 118507
Gainesville, FL 32611-8507

Career Service Hours

Monday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Tuesday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Thursday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Friday 8:00 am- 5:00 pm

We are located on Level 1 of the Reitz Union.