AEL FAQs

Email the Academy for Experiential Learning at ael@vt.edu or submit a Services Request Form to learn more about implementing the Bridge Experience Program within your department or academic program.

AEL partners with faculty and academic programs by providing guidance, resources, professional development, and support for implementing experiential learning and the Bridge Experience Program.

The Bridge Experience Program provides a common universitywide framework for participating programs. Limited modifications may be made to address the needs of a specific academic program, but changes are considered on a case-by-case basis to maintain the core structure and learning outcomes of the program.

Encourage students to use the Student Opportunity Center (SOC) to search for experiential learning opportunities. AEL also offers brief SOC demonstrations for classes, student groups, and faculty/staff to help students and faculty learn how to effectively use the platform.

Faculty can also help expand experiential learning opportunities by staying connected to former students, building alumni networks, inviting guest speakers to the classroom, and building professional networks that may lead to student opportunities. AEL and Career and Professional Development (CPD) can assist with sharing opportunities and connecting students with resources across the university.

Faculty are encouraged to partner with AEL by sharing keywords, industries, organizations, locations, or other information related to their academic program. This collaboration helps AEL identify and curate additional opportunities that better align with students' interests and program needs into the SOC.

To schedule a SOC demonstration or discuss opportunities for your students, email Claire Shirkey.

Approved experience can vary by academic program. Contact your program's Bridge Experience representative to determine if your experience will meet your program's requirements.

Requirements vary by academic program. Check with your department or Bridge Experience contact to learn whether the program is required for your degree.

The Bridge Experience spans the duration of your experiential learning opportunity. Reflection activities are completed throughout the experience, with a final reflection and showcase submitted afterward.

If you're having trouble finding opportunities related to your major or interests, start by exploring different keywords, industries, locations, and opportunity types in the Student Opportunity Center (SOC). You can also submit the Search Feedback Form to suggest keywords, organizations, or other information that would help AEL better curate opportunities for students.

If you need help exploring career interests, identifying potential career paths, or connecting your experiences to future goals, consider meeting with Career and Professional Development (CPD) for additional support.