Center for Experiential Learning and Innovation

Illustration of a line of students gazing into the horizon of the setting sun

Broaden Your Horizons

In the context of college student career development and student success, Broaden Your Horizons refers to expanding one’s perspectives, experiences, and skills beyond their immediate academic or career focus and current understanding or comfort zone. This can involve exploring new academic disciplines, engaging in diverse extracurricular activities, seeking out internships and job opportunities, and developing a global perspective through study abroad programs or multicultural interactions. This approach aims to prepare students for a diverse and evolving job market, enhance their personal growth, and increase their adaptability and resilience. It involves the following elements, working to uphold the NACE Competencies.

  1. Exposure to Diverse Fields and Disciplines: Encouraging students to explore courses
    and activities outside their major to gain a well-rounded education.
    1. Examples: Joining On-campus groups and organizations, attending workshops held by support services and programs,
  2.  Experiential Learning Opportunities: Participating in internships, co-ops, study abroad
    programs, and service-learning projects to gain practical experience and global
    awareness.
    1. Examples: On-campus Jobs, Internships, Shadowing Programs within the
      Community
  3. Networking and Mentorship: Building relationships with professionals, alumni, and
    peers in various industries to gain insights and advice.
    1. Examples: Mentorship programs, On campus groups and organizations, college and departmental events or programs, online networking programs
  4. Skill Development: Fostering both hard and soft skills, such as critical thinking,
    communication, and problem-solving, that are valuable in any career.
    1. Examples: Recognizing and taking stock of skills and competencies gained in
      class, co-curricular programs, internships, and jobs
  5. Cultural Competency: Learning to understand and appreciate cultural differences,
    which is crucial in today’s global workforce.
    1. Examples: Engaging in cultural events, internships outside of your “local” area,
      study or working abroad, culturally diverse courses
  6. Career Exploration: Investigating multiple career paths and industries to find the best fit
    for their interests and strengths.
    1. Examples: Discovering the multiple pathways of your major, engaging with your
      Success Team, exploring the non-linear path to your occupational goal