What Is Experiential Learning—and Why Does it Matter?
Experiential learning goes beyond lectures and textbooks, empowering students to “learn by doing.” Whether through hands-on internships, museum visits, immersive fieldwork, or professional conferences, it’s a learning journey rooted in real-world engagement. At Penn State Outreach, this approach isn’t just supplementary; it’s central to building essential career competencies like communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and professionalism.
These align closely with the Career Readiness Competencies developed by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). NACE defines career readiness as “a foundation from which to demonstrate requisite core competencies that broadly prepare the college-educated for success in the workplace and lifelong career management.” For students, it’s the new “career currency,” the skills that ensure a successful transition into the workforce and form the basis of a lifelong career. For higher education, it provides a framework for career-related goals and outcomes of curricular and extracurricular activities. And for employers, it identifies key skills and abilities across job functions while also offering a roadmap for developing talent through internships and experiential programs.
That’s where the Max and Shirley Kogan Museum Experience Fund comes in—a wonderful initiative championing museum-based experiential learning. Established by Jason D. Kogan (‘66, Liberal Arts) in honor of his parents, this non-endowed fund supports undergraduate students and faculty-led groups seeking educational opportunities in art, history, anthropology, cultural, or science museums.
Whether you’re planning a museum visit, applying for an internship, or heading to a professional museum conference, you can receive up to $2,000 to support your experience.
Fund recipients are also expected to:
- complete the UpSkill Penn State non-credit Canvas course,
- meet with Jason Kogan during or after their experience, and
- reflect on how the experience connects to resiliency, career readiness, and student success.
Applications are available through September 18, 2025.
A Real Impact: Voices from Past Recipients
Hearing directly from past awardees illustrates the fund’s transformative power:
“This not only enriches my educational experience but also promises to be a fantastic learning opportunity for me.”
“I’ll be going to interview Dr. Albert Kollar at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, and I’m extremely excited to get hands-on experience working with and talking to the curator of such a large museum.”
These firsthand stories underscore how museum-based learning, guided by professionals and supported with meaningful funding, can shape perspectives, inspire new interests, and build professional confidence.
By bringing students into museums, not as observers but as active participants, we open doors to immersive learning, professional networking, and self-discovery. This fun doesn’t just support a trip; it invests in your growth, resilience, and future career readiness.