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Experiential Learning

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is the core of the Caldwell Fellows program. Experiential learning is a method of "learning by doing", reflecting on the experience, and making sense of that new knowledge. This is an example of NC State's "Think and Do" motto in action.
Experiential learning in the Caldwell Fellows is made possible through enrichment stipend funds which encourage students to use program resources to stretch their learning and deepen their development with opportunities otherwise unavailable to them. Fellows may use stipends to pursue experiences designed by the Caldwell Fellows program, and other campus departments, or design their own stipend experience.

Some examples of experiential learning opportunities available to Caldwell Fellows

Wilderness Expedition

Over 35 years of Caldwell Fellows have embarked on the Wilderness Expedition. Based on the Outward Bound model, and guided by a volunteer staff of wilderness-leadership certified Caldwell Fellows alumni, the Expedition takes students to one of the pristine wilderness areas of the U.S. for ten days of backpacking and leadership development.

Urban Adventures

Urban Adventures take Caldwell Fellows to U.S. city centers like New York, Washington, D.C. and San Francisco to meet and learn from Caldwell Fellows alumni, visit graduate schools across the country, and explore career opportunities in a wide variety of fields.

Global Perspectives

Each summer, Caldwell Fellows embark on Global Perspective Experiences to learn more about a country’s culture and customs. Previous Experiences have taken students to Romania, Ethiopia, India, and China.

Service Mexico

NC State Study Abroad

Many Caldwell Fellows elect to participate in summer or semester-long study abroad programs offered in a variety of locations around the world through the Study Abroad Office.

Undergraduate Research

Caldwell Fellows are leaders in their academic disciplines by engaging in undergraduate research opportunities through the Office of Undergraduate Research.

Student explains her poster

Self-Designed Experiences

Caldwell Fellows have used enrichment stipends to pursue undergraduate research experiences, accept internships in major U.S. cities, study abroad all across the world and design service programs for their local communities.