Name
Benefits of Experiential Learning in an International Internship
Date & Time
Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 9:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Steven Chumbley Maria Consuelo Donato
Description

Internship is the essential part of curriculum where students get hands-on experience in training establishments that complement their formal learning in school (Honeylet et al., 2022). Briers et al. (2010) concluded that the most important factors affecting student participation in international programs were language incompatibility and financial concerns, respectively. As part of a large USDA grant project, [TITLE], students were selected for two-year cohorts. The first year of the project included training for, and participation in an international experiential learning trip. The following year students were assigned various international and U.S. based research internships for the Summer. The purpose of this research presentation was to determine the perceived impact of the [Program] on students’ career skills. Using semi structured interviews (n = 11), students were asked to reflect on their growth after participation in the internship program. From the interviews, the authors developed a survey to assess all participants level of skill development. The students answered questions related to their experience and how it affected their interpersonal skills, professional technical skills and employability skills. These were collected through online submission, as to ensure anonymity. We received a response rate of 43%. This descriptive study was conducted at [UNIVERSITY], a southern Hispanic Serving Institution. We found that the largest impact of the international experience included: Industry-Specific Knowledge with insights into sectors such as the citrus and meat industries, including retail operations and agricultural business concepts; Technical Proficiencies with skills in drone operation, data analysis, plant identification, and understanding USDA office functions; Communication and Leadership, with improved skills in communication, teamwork, and applying leadership abilities; Adaptability and Planning with strengthened flexibility in responding to changing situations and formulating plans efficiently. The last skills identified as most improved as related to opportunities for building professional connections, improving social skills, and understanding international trade.

Location Name
British Columbia/Alberta/Yukon Ballroom
Full Address
The Westin Edmonton
10135 100 St NW
Edmonton AB T5J 0N7
Canada
Session Type
Poster Presentation
Presentation Topic(s)
Practice of Teaching
Number
223
Authors

Steven Boot Chumbley, Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Maria C. Donato-Molina, Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Randy Stanko, Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Shad Nelson, Texas A&M University-Kingsville