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Experiential Learning

Alma College features robust experiential learning options for students that allow you to gain real-world experiences outside of the traditional classroom environment in unique settings around the world. Where will you venture?

College is a great place to explore new things, to figure out who you are or who you want to be.

At Alma, we believe your college experience should include the opportunity to pursue something you care deeply about or maybe just to step out of your comfort zone and try something you never imagined.

As part of the Alma Commitment, every student will have an experiential learning opportunity that meets their personal or professional goals, funded by an Alma Venture grant or one of several other college-sponsored grant programs. You will have up to $2,500 to put your classroom learning into practice through a remarkable internship, research fellowship, hands-on clinical experience, off-campus study, campus leadership opportunity or another approved learning experience.

Why have we made this financial commitment? Because we want you to graduate with practical experiences that will prepare you for life after college. So check out the options below and find your adventure.

Spring Term

Alma has a 4-4-1 academic calendar, so after fall and winter terms, you have the opportunity to focus on one course topic for the entire month of May. We call this month “Spring Term,” and many of the courses involve domestic or international travel.

Student Research

At Alma College, your classroom learning comes to life in cutting-edge research experiences. Your laboratory? It’s the whole world!

Scholarship & Internship Opportunities

Need a little help funding your dream research project or study abroad experience? We offer several opportunities to help you take your learning to the next level.

Center for College & Community Engagement

The Center for College and Community Engagement (CCCE) creates collaborative opportunities for the college and community to develop strategic partnerships, share knowledge, and serve mid-Michigan together. The Center’s activities focus on four key areas of concern: engagement, community, sustainability, and purpose.

Alternative Breaks

Alternative Breaks

No matter what your interest is, there is an Alternative Break opportunity for you. Alternative Breaks allow students to spend time doing service work while traveling outside the community. This may involve community engagement in a variety of contexts, from providing childcare in a homeless shelter to being involved in disaster relief efforts. Whatever you’re doing, you’ll have fun while reflecting on what is important to you in life.

Most service teams include 8 to 20 people. Each team has a staff advisor and student leaders. Prior to departure, the entire team meets regularly to better understand what to expect on the trip. In addition to learning about social issues, Alternative Break participants experience the local culture at their destination. Each service opportunity includes time to sight see, enjoy a local restaurant, or relax with friends. Alternative Breaks encourages full engagement through living and eating simply, limiting technology and being alcohol- and drug-free.

Leadership Programs

Leadership Programs

Leadership is important to your college experience. On the athletic field, in your fraternity or sorority house, in the classroom, through one of our specialized programs or while on spring break—there’s always an opportunity for you to take the lead.

What makes a Scot stand apart from the rest? A willingness to speak out, step up and make an impact. Whether you’re inspiring your peers on the athletic field, managing your fraternity or sorority chapter or taking the stage at the National Model UN Conference — at Alma, there are many ways for you to grow as a leader.

You can also hone those skills in a real-world setting through internships, placements or volunteering. Our career and personal development team can help you access dedicated career coaching, on- and off-campus employment opportunities and Alma Venture funding to pursue your dream.

International & Off-Campus Study

International & Off-Campus Study

Spend a semester studying in one of 14 countries around the globe or, if you prefer to remain in the United States, study and intern in one of four metropolitan centers: New York, Philadelphia, Chicago or Washington, D.C.

Located in the Center for Student Opportunity, Off-Campus Study staff can help you find the program that is right for you. Spend a semester studying in one of 14 countries around the globe or, if you prefer to remain in the United States, study and intern in one of four metropolitan centers: New York, Philadelphia, Chicago or Washington, D.C.

Alma College offers approved programs of study in the countries listed below. The programs in Ecuador, England, Ghana, Italy, Peru and Spain include internship, service learning or volunteer opportunities.

  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Ecuador
  • England
  • France
  • Germany
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • New Zealand
  • Peru
  • Scotland
  • Spain

Each of the domestic programs combines internships, professional development and traditional coursework.

  • Chicago Center for Urban Life and Culture; Chicago, IL
  • New York Arts Program; New York, NY
  • The Philadelphia Center; Philadelphia, PA
  • American University; Washington, DC
  • The Washington Center; Washington, DC