For Students

Advantages of Work-Based Learning 

  • Gain professional experience and translate it to your resume
  • Build a professional network and mentorship connections
  • Develop industry ready skills in real-world environments
  • Strengthen your resume with long-term, impactful work
A student wearing safety glasses takes notes while observing equipment in a laboratory setting.

How Does Work-Based Learning Benefit Students?

  • By taking career preparedness courses and participating in career programs, students are supported by dedicated Career Strategy staff to develop skills in networking, writing resumes and cover letters, job search and interviewing.
  • By connecting a world-class education offered at Penn State with field experiences, earning money while in college, and having more employment options when graduating
  • By getting a head start finding a well-matched career path and making professional connections
  • By learning critical professional competencies that translate to workplace success and lifelong career management

Gain Professional Experience*

  • Internships
  • Externships & Job Shadowing
  • Existing on and off campus employment tailored to your field of study
  • Co-curricular activities 
  • Student research
  • Possibility for an extended work experience through part of the year
  • Extended project work
  • Micro-internships 

*Experiences may vary by employer 

A person operates a video camera in a hallway while filming someone speaking inside a studio with a green screen.

Fall 2022, PA Careerlink Student Visit 

Credit: Penn State

What you need to do now to participate:

  • Enroll in CNED 100 - Effective Career Decision-Making.
  • After enrolling in the course, send an email to Jamie Merida to schedule a meeting.