Career Services
INTERNSHIPS AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Experiential learning is a way of learning that focuses on gaining knowledge and skills through hands-on experiences. It is about actively doing things and thinking about what you learn. There is an emphasis on practical application. This approach recognizes that meaningful learning occurs when individuals are actively involved in real-world experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts and promoting the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Experiential Learning is an important part of your education and career development.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES AT SJR STATE
Definitions:
- Capstone Course: The Capstone course is taken in the last semester of a student’s bachelor program. Students have an option of completing a research project or an internship.
- Experiential Learning: Job shadowing, micro-internships, volunteering, part-time or full-time jobs in the student’s area of study.
- Internship, For Credit: On-the-job work experience for college credit.
- Internship, Not for Credit: On-the-job work experience not for college credit.
- Internship Instructor: SJR State faculty who is facilitating the Capstone course.
- Internship Site: The business where the intern will work.
- Internship Site Supervisor: The professional at the business to whom the intern reports.
In order for a student to participate in a for-credit internship, they must be in a Capstone Course in the last semester of a participating bachelor program.
Some employers post internship opportunities through Viking CareerLink, which can be a helpful resource for students searching for internships. However, students are encouraged to explore additional resources and conduct their own internship search, as not all internship opportunities are posted on Viking CareerLink. The Career Services office provides resources and guidance throughout the internship search process but does not place students into internships.
Please contact your Capstone Course instructor to initiate the internship agreement process. If you have any questions, please contact Michelle Fox at (904)276-6779 or
Businesses or organizations interested in hosting an intern should contact the Career Services office at (904) 276-6779 or for information on how to request an intern.
VIKING ExperLearn:
Gain Real-World Experience Through Non-Credit Experiential Learning
Viking ExperLearn connects SJR State students with employers offering non-credit experiential learning opportunities, including internships, job shadowing, volunteer experiences, and other career exploration opportunities.
These experiences allow students to build career-ready skills, explore potential career paths, expand their professional network, and gain valuable workplace experience outside of the classroom.
Welcome to the Viking ExperLearn – your gateway to exciting opportunities for hands-on learning and career development!
Viking ExperLearn opportunities are available through Viking CareerLink. Employers who are interested in hosting SJR State students may post non-credit experiential learning opportunities for students to browse and apply for.
Students are encouraged to:
- Search Viking CareerLink regularly for available opportunities.
- Apply directly to opportunities that match their interests and qualifications.
- Continue exploring additional internship and experiential learning opportunities outside of Viking CareerLink, as not every employer participates in the program.
Please note:
- Viking ExperLearn opportunities are not for academic credit.
- Career Services provides access to opportunities and career support but does not place students into internships or guarantee placement.
- Students are responsible for applying, interviewing, and securing their own opportunities.
- Participants may be asked to sign an acknowledgement that these experiences are independent of St. Johns River State College.
Career Services is available to assist students with resumes, interviewing, job search strategies, and career preparation throughout the process.
Through Viking ExperLearn, students can strengthen important career competencies, including:
- Career Development
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Leadership
- Professionalism
- Teamwork
- Technology
- Intercultural Competence
Start exploring opportunities today by logging into Viking CareerLink.
Viking ExperLearn provides employers with an opportunity to connect with motivated SJR State students through non-credit internships, job shadowing experiences, volunteer opportunities, and other experiential learning activities.
By posting opportunities in Viking CareerLink, employers can introduce students to their industry, help develop the future workforce, and identify potential candidates for future employment.
Please note:
- These opportunities are not academic internships and do not provide college credit.
- Students apply directly through Viking CareerLink.
- Career Services promotes opportunities but cannot guarantee student applicants.
- Employers are responsible for selecting, supervising, and mentoring participating students.
- By offering an internship, employers must ensure the internship is structured around clearly defined learning objectives and provides a meaningful educational experience.
- Students should not be scheduled to work during their class times.
- Participating organizations may be asked to sign an acknowledgment that these experiences are independent of St. Johns River State College.
- If offering an unpaid internship, employers are responsible for ensuring the position complies with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The U.S. Department of Labor's Fact Sheet #71 provides guidance on determining whether an unpaid internship in the "for-profit" private sector meets federal legal requirements. Please review Fact Sheet #71 before posting an unpaid internship. Employers interested in participating can create an employer account or log into Viking CareerLink to post experiential learning opportunities. Questions may be directed to Career Services at (904) 276-6779 or CareerServices@sjrstate.edu.
- Fact Sheet #71
OTHER EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Job Shadowing – This is a career exploration strategy where a student observes and follows a professional in their workplace for a short period. During the job shadowing experience, the participant has the opportunity to gain insights into the day-to-day responsibilities, tasks, and challenges associated with a specific job or profession giving the student firsthand understanding of the work environment, industry norms, and the skills required for the role.
Viking CareerLink.
Volunteering – Volunteering involves students dedicating their time and skills to support a cause or organization without monetary compensation. Volunteering offers a unique avenue for personal and professional growth. Individuals not only contribute to the community but also gain valuable experiences and develop skills that enhance their overall employability. It also provides opportunities to explore diverse roles, expand networks, and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility, all of which can positively impact one’s career trajectory. Skills acquired through volunteering, such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership, can be highlighted on resumes, making individuals more attractive to prospective employers.
Viking CareerLink.
Forage: Virtual Job Simulations
Forage is a free online platform offering virtual job simulations designed by top companies. These short, self-paced experiences let you explore different career paths, build skills, and understand what it’s like to work in various roles. Completing simulations can help you strengthen your resume, practice real-world tasks, and make more informed career decisions, all from your own schedule.
Parker Dewey Micro-internships – These are projects that vary in time from around 10 hours to 40 hours. All Parker Dewey micro-internships are paid, and most are completed remotely. Unlike typical internships, these micro-internships are open to all students and students can complete as many of these micro-internships as they would like.
Parker Dewey - Internships
Part-time and Full-time Jobs – Many SJR State students participate in the workforce by holding jobs. This helps students gain soft skills that will help them in any career. Students should be intentional about their choice of jobs while going to college. The best choice is a job that will help them learn skills they will need for the career they will pursue after graduation.
Find a Job
Work-Study – This offers students the opportunity to work part-time jobs on campus to help cover educational expenses. These positions not only contribute to the student’s financial well-being but also enhance their professional development by allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
SJR State Job listings
INTERNSHIPS AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:
Earn Up
State of Florida Internships
USA Jobs
