Connecting virtually
Opportunities for REAL experiences, even virtual
Despite the pandemic seemingly halting the opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience, VCU’s Student Opportunity Center forged ahead. Through multiple platforms that connect students to experiential learning courses and activities, VCU was able to offer students more than 6,500 virtual opportunities. In the spring 2020 semester, 51.4 percent of students enrolled and completed an experiential activity.
VCU awarded eight grants to faculty, staff and students looking to address gaps in equity and access in terms of improving experiential learning opportunities. These projects include mentoring and leadership, hands-on engineering for freshmen, building a pipeline for environmental studies internships and careers, STEM programs, college transition, biology internships, student ambassador program and health equity.