Ways to Gain Hands-On Experience at Nebraska

October 17, 2022

First-year student Nathan—a mechanical engineering major from Bellevue, NE—receives flight instruction to fly a small drone in the NIMBUS lab from Siya Kunde, Phd. student in Computer Science as part of the FYRE program.

At Nebraska, we pride ourselves on digging into hands-on learning opportunities. And you can take advantage of these in a variety of forms, from participating in undergraduate research to finding a unique lab or studio in your college. Check out some ways you can gain real-world experience that will help you grow your skills and set yourself up for life after undergrad.

Immerse Yourself in Research and Creative Activity

At Nebraska, research and innovation drive activities that expand your knowledge and solve real-world problems. There are several opportunities for undergraduate research during the school year and summer. Throughout your time at Nebraska, you can carry out groundbreaking research 1-to-1 with Nebraska’s brightest faculty through programs like UCARE (Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experience), FYRE (First Year Research Experience) and more. And a bonus to the cool hands-on work you’ll do: developing connections, skills and discipline that will prepare you for a career or grad school. Check out more undergraduate research programs here.

Seek out Specialized Courses and Programs

Students work in the College of Journalism Experience Lab
Students work in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications Experience Lab.

The College of Journalism and Mass Communications has the Experience Lab where students can access a range of hands-on opportunities — from working on real advertising campaigns for real clients to broadcasting from Husker games. The College of Architecture houses studios where students can grow their skills and work on projects with real community impact. And through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources’ Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program Huskers feed their entrepreneurial spark and develop businesses from the ground up. And that’s just a few of the colleges! Be sure to meet with your advisor to learn more about specific opportunities in your college. They’re here to help!

Find an Internship that Excites You

Sam Rice walks on the Clippers court with a video camera during his internship
Emerging Media Arts student Sam Rice interned as a video producer for the LA Clippers. Photo courtesy Sam Rice.

Internships offer a great opportunity to pad your resume, build a network and get hands-on experience in something you’re interested in. From working as a video producer with the LA Clippers to interning with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at a wildlife refuge, Huskers have held a wide range of positions. And our global Husker family means you may even hear a “Go Big Red” or two regardless of where your internship takes you. Not sure where to start? Career Services is an awesome resource as you start looking for internship opportunities.

Leverage Your Skills in the Community

Arnold Elementary students working on coding activities alongside Huskers in the Initialize UNL RSO.
Arnold Elementary students working on coding activities alongside Huskers in the Initialize UNL RSO. Photo courtesy Madison Maloney.

Combining your interests/major with service opportunities is the perfect way to grow your skills while making an impact. Seek out recognized student organizations that appeal to you and your community engagement goals—like teaching local children STEM lessons while growing yourself. You’ll be able to connect with people and issues while adding value for prospective employers or graduate/professional schools.

Take Advantage of On-Campus Resources and Events

Maria Heyen gives a pitch during the 3–2–1 Quick Pitch Competition in Morrill Hall
College of Business student Maria Heyen gives a pitch during the 3–2–1 Quick Pitch Competition.

Across campus, you’ll find specialized departments and events to help you stretch your strengths and grow your network. For example, are you interested in flexing your entrepreneurial spirit? The College of Business’ Center for Entrepreneurship offers all students opportunities to get experience pitching businesses through competitions, receive 1–on-1 coaching and gain hands-on investment experience through Husker Venture Fund. Keep your eye on the campus events calendar for upcoming opportunities and reach out to your advisor to find additional resources related to your interests.