There are many ways to gain experience. Choose the ones that fit your goals, interests, and schedule. We encourage you to start early and try multiple experiences throughout your time at IU. Each opportunity helps you apply what you’re learning in the classroom and move closer to your career goals. Some experiences are exploratory in nature and provide opportunities to learn from alumni and industry professionals. Other experiences are applied in the field to gain hands-on experience.
Explore the possibilities with experiential learning
Take a closer look
Spend a few hours, a day, or a week observing a professional in your field of interest. Shadowing gives you a behind-the-scenes look at daily responsibilities and workplace culture.
Make a difference in your community while gaining valuable experience. Many public health organizations welcome student volunteers for events, outreach, and ongoing programs.
Take on short-term, real-world projects through platforms like Forage or faculty-led initiatives. These experiences simulate professional challenges and help you build a portfolio of work.
Complete short, paid professional projects—often remotely—through platforms like Parker Dewey. These flexible opportunities are ideal for building skills and exploring industries on your own time.
Collaborate with faculty on public health research projects. Whether through independent studies, lab work, or research assistantships, these experiences deepen your academic knowledge and analytical skills.
Gain global perspective by participating in international programs that focus on experiences relevant to your academic program. Study abroad experiences can broaden your understanding of professional work in new cultural contexts.
Internships offer immersive, structured experiences in public health, healthcare, wellness, sport, event management, and related fields. They can be part-time or full-time, during the semester or summer, and are often a steppingstone to full-time employment. Many of our academic majors require a formal internship.
Working part-time in a relevant role allows you to earn income while gaining experience. Many campus and community employers offer jobs that align with your academic and career interests. The Career Exploration and Student Employment office on campus can also assist in identifying part-time employment opportunities.
Full-time roles provide a launchpad into your career. These positions offer opportunities for growth, mentorship, and long-term success. Consider full-time employment during periods when you are not taking a full-time courseload and upon graduation when transitioning to the workforce.
We're here to help with career development support
The Career Development team at the School of Public Health-Bloomington is your partner in navigating, applying, and securing experiential learning opportunities. We offer:
- One-on-one career coaching
- Help with resumes, cover letters, and interviews through appointments and workshops
- Access to jobs and internships through Handshake
- Connections to alumni and employers through career fairs and networking events
- Guidance on how to explore and apply for opportunities
Ready to take the next step?
Visit Handshake to explore job and internship postings or schedule a career coaching appointment today. Your future is waiting—let’s explore it together.