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Student interns put knowledge to work

Nat Gibbs removes invasive plant life from Fort Ord Dunes State Park.
Nat Gibbs ’25, a biology major, battled invasive species and helped protect endangered wildlife as a summer intern in the California State Parks. He was one of 126 students who engaged in experiential learning in various locations across the U.S. and abroad.

Experiential learning enhances education, provides career preparation

Through Wheaton’s Compass Curriculum students are encouraged to put their knowledge to work via experiential learning and internships. The Wheaton Edge guarantees student access to internship funding. This summer, 126 students gained valuable skills through research with faculty, study abroad trips, fellowships and internships at nonprofits, medical facilities, government agencies, and more.

“Study abroad, internships, research experiences, and faculty-led trips contextualize the concepts our students learn about in their classes, providing new insights and experiences that they will bring back to enrich future classroom discussions,” said Sean Schofield, assistant vice president for life and career design.

“Additionally, these opportunities provide students with opportunities to create a powerful network of peers and external partners, all while deepening their understanding of a potential field of interest.”

Schofield provided a by-the-numbers look:

  • 91 students in approved and funded off-campus experiences for summer 2024
  • 17 students researching with faculty or other on-campus opportunities (across 12 departments: anthropology, art history, biology, economics, environmental science; Greek, Latin and ancient Mediterranean studies, history, math, physics, psychology, public health and visual art)
  • 7 students on faculty-led trips (in two countries: England and Spain)
  • 10 Davis International Fellows (in eight countries: Costa Rica, England, France, Italy, Kenya, Spain, Sweden and Tunisia)
  • 1 Porter Cleveland Fellow

A few students shared information and insights about their experiences:

AJ Amaio ’26, Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium, Newport, R.I.
Nat Gibbs ’25, Fort Ord Dunes State Park, Marina, Calif.
Sara Tamara Giraldo ’24, The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland
David Saukkonen ’26, Massachusetts State House, Boston