Learning at CCSU occurs on campus, in the community, and around the globe.

Student Activities (Student Center, 832-1990)
Significant learning opportunities are available through student organizations. CCSU has over 110 recognized student organizations on campus, ranging from governmental bodies such as the Student Government Association to academic clubs like the Communication Club to special interest organizations such as LASO, the Latin American Students’ Organization. Active involvement, especially in leadership positions, in one of these organizations may be the perfect introduction to experiential learning.

International Experiences (Barnard Hall Room 138, 832-2040)
An international experience broadens a person’s perspective on the world. International
experience can take the form of academic study, an internship, volunteer experience, or paid cooperative education. CCSU offers numerous credit-bearing summer programs in such countries as Germany, China, France, Nigeria, Japan, Jamaica, and England. Year-long exchange programs for study at universities in these and many other countries will also give you invaluable first-hand experiences of other cultures and ways of life.

The Center for International Education provides comprehensive assistance for students wishing to study overseas, including an extensive pre-departure orientation, a re-entry culture-shock workshop, advisement in selecting an appropriate program, and support services for the duration of the program.

Community Services/Volunteer Opportunities (Student Center 205)
Community service includes many things, from volunteering at a children’s hospital to building a playscape at a local elementary school. The community may be the CCSU community of students and faculty, the greater New Britain community, or the world beyond New Britain. One
student may choose a volunteer experience which offers learning opportunities related to the student’s major; another may get involved with a community group totally unrelated to his or her academic studies.

Internships (Willard Hall 100, 832-1630)
The term “internship” usually applies to experience related to the academic programs. Internships are often sponsored by private companies or governmental agencies. An internship may be unpaid or paid. A student may be able to obtain academic credit for an internship, depending on the student’s major department. Some departments such as Industrial Technology require internships. Others such as Computer Science offer optional internship credit. Some departments do not have formal credit-bearing internships, but may recognize an internship experience and grant credit as independent study. In any case, early planning is essential and prior approval of an academic department is necessary.

Cooperative Education (Willard Hall 100,832-1630)
Cooperative Education work experiences are paid, full-time, six-month positions related to the student’s academic and career interests. It takes one full semester of preparation, which includes enrollment in a one-credit Career Development Seminar, resume writing, and interviewing. It is wise to plan ahead for Co-op (one full year prior to the beginning of work).