As a requirement for all undergraduates at Monmouth University, Experiential Education (Ex Ed) enables students to link the intellectual pursuits of the classroom with real-world experiences. While participating in Ex Ed, students cultivate valuable learning and educational opportunities that can include cooperative education, service learning, and study abroad semesters in London, Florence, Cadiz, or Sydney.
Experiential Education offers students the opportunity to integrate and expand skills as critical thinkers, writers, and readers; to apply knowledge and ethical judgment to real life situations; to gain experience and develop field-related competencies; to improve the ability to learn in a self-directed and self-reflective manner; to enhance the understanding of different professional environments and explore career options, and to reflect on personal and professional development.
In the past, English majors have secured Experiential Education placements with Random House, St. Martin’s Press, The Strand Theatre in Lakewood, Monmouth County SPCA, Family Promise of Monmouth County, Long Branch Public Library, and the National Geographic Society.
There are several types of Ex Ed opportunities available to English majors:
Cooperative Education – Work in an academically/career relevant position (as a paid or unpaid intern or “shadower”) under the direction of a faculty member (sponsor)
Service Learning – Work with a non-profit organization to apply what you learn in the classroom to projects that meet community needs; complete related academic assignments under the direction of a faculty sponsor
Experiential Education classes – Any class with the designation “course type: EX.” The Department of English offers EN 384: Language and Community. This course brings speakers to the classroom and sends students out to learn more about the multiple opportunities they can pursue as English majors, including tutoring.
Study Abroad – Spend a semester or summer program in London, Sydney, Cadiz, or Florence, or an alternative international experience approved by the University. Please contact the Study Abroad Office for more information.
English/Education majors satisfy the Ex Ed requirement through student teaching.
Contact Dr. Mihaela Moscaliuc to find out more information on ways to fulfill the Experiential Education requirement, answers to frequently asked questions, and to get started.
