The Exchange: Experience that Matters

The work of The Exchange centers on promoting experience that matters: connecting students to experiential learning opportunities of all types (internships, applied research, special projects) to help them hone their communication, problem-solving, team building, and leadership skills. We also help students learn how to effectively translate their activities, achievements, and demonstrated abilities to advance their professional goals.

For many students, on-campus employment is their introduction to experiential learning. Last year 420 students worked in 736 positions on campus. Each of these students drafted and uploaded a resume into Handshake, our career services management system, to be reviewed by staff in The Exchange. Once approved, students were able to apply for positions within Handshake, interview with interested employers, and begin, what for some was, their first professional working experience. 

And the benefits to securing an on-campus position go beyond the experience and skills that are gained. Working on campus is also a way for students to connect with their peers and with faculty and staff outside of the classroom, helping them to feel even more integrated into campus life.

We at The Exchange hope to get to know your student early and to connect with them often. If your student is interested in learning more about on- or off-campus employment, they’re unsure of their major or future career path, or they’re needing practical help with various career documents, know that there is a resource on campus to help. And your encouragement to take advantage of such resources can go a long way. (Even when you’re convinced they’re not listening!)

You can learn more about us and our resources at www.marian.edu/exchange. Urge your student to come visit us on the first floor of the Mother Theresa Hackelmeier Memorial Library.