What is Experiential Learning?

Experiential learning means learning by doing. Instead of just reading or listening in class, you get hands-on experience that helps you apply what you’ve learned in real situations.

It’s about trying things out, reflecting on what you learn, and using those lessons to grow — both personally and professionally.

Examples include:

  • Internships or Co-Ops
  • Virtual Job Simulations (e.g., Forage)
  • Fellowships
  • Research Opportunities
  • Service or Volunteer Experiences
  • Study Abroad and Global Learning Programs
  • Campus Leadership Roles
  • On-Campus Student Employment

These experiences help you build real-world skills, explore career interests, and stand out to future employers.

Forage (Virtual Job Simulations)

West Virginia University has partnered with Forage to offer immersive, employer-designed job simulations that help you build career-ready skills. Forage is a free online platform where you can explore different career paths by completing real-world tasks based on actual roles at top companies.

In just a few hours, you’ll work through guided activities supported by pre-recorded videos and example answers from company teams. After completing a program, you’ll earn a certificate you can showcase on your résumé or LinkedIn.

Forage provides a flexible, accessible way to develop practical skills, gain insight into various careers, and stand out to recruiters as you prepare for your future.

Volunteer

Service learning combines your classes with hands-on community service, giving you real-world experience while building leadership, empathy, and civic responsibility. Volunteer experience also strengthens your resume by highlighting initiative, transferable skills, commitment, and values, providing relevant experience and demonstrating qualities employers value, like teamwork and leadership.

Please visit iServe to view all Volunteer Opportunities.

Study Abroad

Studying or interning in another country lets you experience new cultures firsthand, helping you become more adaptable, independent, and globally aware. You’ll build skills in cross-cultural communication, problem-solving, and flexibility—qualities that are valuable for future careers and personal growth.

Please visit WVU Abroad to view Study Abroad Opportunities.

Online Tools

Career Resources

Integrating Forage Job Simulations into Your Course

Forage is a free, online platform offering short, employer‑designed job simulations that allow …

Contact & Location

Phone
304-293-2221
Address

The Mountainlair
Room #133
1550 University Ave./P.O. Box 6008
Morgantown, WV 26506-6008

Career Service Hours

Monday 8:15 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Tuesday 8:15 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Wednesday 8:15 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Thursday 8:15 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Friday 8:15 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON 1:1 Appointments Available 

Access virtual help — anytime, anywhere!