Enhancing Experiential Learning through IT Partner Collaborations for Student Equity and Career Readiness

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 9:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Experiential Education and Community Engagement: Scholarship and Practice SIG Roundtable 3

Abstract

In today’s rapidly evolving workforce, students need strong employment skills upon graduation; this includes leadership, teamwork and technical innovation for their career paths. By participating in employee based experiential learning programs, students gain valuable skills. The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) set goals for experiential student opportunities. By 2028, UTSA aims for 75% of its students to participate in experiential learning opportunities (University of Texas at San Antonio, n.d). Utilizing mixed methods, this research focuses on the University Technology Solutions (UTS) Bold Careers Program and experiences of their interns and ambassadors. The program offers opportunities for students to practice technical skills required for positions they are expected to fill in today’s highly technical workforce environment (Cooper et al., 2024).

Authors

• Vanessa Hammler Kenon, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Pebby Garner, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Cristian Aldrete, The University of Texas San Antonio