Elms College to Host Annual Experiential Learning Showcase on May 2

CHICOPEE — Elms College students will showcase their real-world experiences gained through internships, research, service work, and travel opportunities at the annual Experiential Learning Showcase on Friday, May 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This program is open to all, with no need to register.

“Experiential learning helps students to understand what they need to be successful upon graduation. Students gain real-world experience and learn what they may want to do with their college education,” said Jennifer Granger Sullivan, director of Experiential Learning (EL). “Many students will be hired full-time with the internship site and/or use it as a launchpad toward their career. We work with all students to participate in EL during their time at Elms and then also work to guide students on showcasing their experiences.”

At Elms College, 95% of students participate in internships, research, and service opportunities through the Dolores Donlin Noonan ’39 Experiential Learning Program. Students have explored opportunities with many local organizations, including Way Finders, Polish Discovery Center, Holyoke Soldiers Home, Springfield Thunderbirds, Hampden County’s Sheriff’s Office, Care Center, and the office of state Rep. Shirley Arriaga.

Andrea Reilly, a senior majoring in social work, said her internship with the Case Management department at Holyoke Medical Center added to what she learned in the classroom. “My role involves assisting patients in finding short-term rehab, learning to walk again after a broken bone, locating inpatient drug rehab, and arranging home visits for wound care and medication assistance. I would never have been able to use what I have learned [in classes] and turn it into actual practice in the real world without this program.”

Elms College created the Dolores Donlin Noonan ’39 Experiential Learning Program to provide students with practical, real-world experiences that enhance their academic studies and career readiness. Through internships, research, and community-based learning, students gain valuable skills, build professional networks, and develop a deeper understanding of their fields.