Value of Experiential Education:

Ever had to learn/try something new before? Whether it is a new topic in your coursework, or picking up a new hobby, what is most important to continued success in learning a new skill or competency? Practice. Practice is the key to being successful in transitioning your knowledge into what truly matters in being successful in your career.

One of the best ways to practice, and find out if you like a career is by participating in an internship. By participating in an internship you learn how to translate your skills and competencies into the tools of the trade that make you a marketable, and high value candidate for employment. With that said, internships are sometimes difficult to come by. Sometimes there just aren’t enough internships to go around, sometimes internships are too far away, or any other circumstance you can think of. No matter the case, whether you are struggling to land an internship, develop a new skill, or simply see what it is like to do a certain type of work, Forage is a great step for you.

Introducing Forage: 

Forage offers students the opportunity to participate in asynchronous “job simulations” or micro-internships. These experiences allow you to explore different industries, build practical skills, and gain insights into career paths—all on your schedule.

Unlike traditional internships, Forage programs are accessible to anyone with an internet connection, eliminating barriers such as geographic location, financial constraints, or limited availability of positions. These programs are designed in collaboration with leading global companies, including J.P. Morgan, Red Bull, Electronic Arts, and Verizon, ensuring that the tasks and projects you complete are directly relevant to real-world roles in the industry.

Through Forage students can: 

• Explore Career Options: Gain exposure to various industries and roles, helping you discover what type of work resonates with your interests and strengths 
• Develop In-Demand Skills: Build practical, job-relevant skills such as data analysis, problem solving, communication, and critical thinking, tailored to specific industries. 
• Build Confidence: Practice real-world tasks in a risk-free environment, allowing you to hone your abilities without the pressure of formal employment.
• Enhance Your Resume: Showcase your completed programs on your resume or LinkedIn profile, demonstrating initiative and a commitment to professional growth.
• Network with Top Companies: Gain insights into what top employers are looking for in candidates and connect with potential opportunities within those organizations.

By engaging in these micro-internships, students not only strengthen their career readiness but also acquire the tools needed to secure full-time employment. At LSU, we refer to these essential skills as the Ready to Roar Competencies. To learn more about the Ready to Roar Career proficiencies and how to develop and articulate them to a future employer, check out our other blogs, our Career Guide, or simply drop-in to see us in the Student Union! Forage is more than just a platform—it’s a bridge that connects your LSU experience to career success, empowering you to take charge of your future.

 

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About the LSU Career Center

Our team is committed to ensuring every student has ample opportunities to gain experience, grow their network, and communicate their aptitude for a chosen career long before graduation. We believe LSU students are unparalleled in their potential to step into leadership, solve problems, and elevate the workforce for the benefit of all.