Experiential Learning
Experiential learning allows students to engage with course content actively through hands-on activities, preparation for professional life, and reflection. International Studies majors have various opportunities to pursue experiential learning during their time at SIUE, including projects and internships with community partners from local to global levels, study abroad engagements pursued in person or virtually, as well as an array of service activities.
The program has fostered the engagement of its students with an array of organizations and agencies, including:
- regional nonprofit organizations with an international focus, for example the World Affairs Council of St. Louis, the International Institute of Saint Louis, Project Mosaic
- regional businesses with an international focus, for example the SIUE International Trade Center, the World Trade Center in St. Louis, regional chambers of commerce (the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Asian American Chamber of Commerce, and the African Chamber of Commerce of St. Louis), and global businesses with regional headquarters in our region (Anheuser-Bush, Boeing, Enterprise, Centene, Edward Jones)
- government agencies and international organizations, for example the U.S. Department of State, embassies of various nations to the U.S., European Union agencies, the United Nations
- academic institutions and associations, for example the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (and in particular its European Union Center), various universities in worldwide settings, the International Studies Association
One opportunity available at SIUE that International Studies majors are particularly encouraged to pursue is the Peace Corps Prep Certificate. Through specific courses, many of which International Studies majors may already be taking or planning to take, along with 50 hours of approved field experience, students earn a certificate from the Peace Corps. This certificate, while it does not guarantee it, can greatly enhance the student's chances for acceptance into the U.S. Peace Corps upon graduation.
