Category: Student Testimonials

Ashleigh’s journey at Clemson University showcases the transformative power of experiential learning through the Co-op program. Motivated by a desire for real-world experience, Ashleigh, an industrial engineering major, navigated the application process with ease, securing a valuable placement at Bosch Rexroth. Ashleigh embraced her role as a logistics intern, where she was the sole industrial engineer on her team. Leading projects focused on warehouse design and optimization,  she was able to hone her skills in ergonomics and SolidWorks, further showcasing her ability to communicate and lead effectively in a professional setting. 

Ashleigh integrated classroom learning and practical skills with her coursework in systems and product design, complementing her hands-on projects at Bosch Rexroth. This alignment empowered her to approach classroom challenges with confidence and efficiency. Through her Co-op experience, Ashleigh solidified her career aspirations and underwent significant personal growth. Her advice to future students considering the Co-op program is clear: seize the opportunity without hesitation. Ashleigh’s journey is a testament to the invaluable impact of experiential learning at Clemson University, where students are empowered to thrive academically and professionally. 

By: Kathryn Atkinson

Anna Whitaker’s journey into special education is not just a career choice but a personal testimony inspired by her younger brother, Owen. Anna, a senior special education major at Clemson, credits her Experiential Learning journey to helping shape her career. Clemson has provided Anna with opportunities to connect her passion to practical skills through field placements and classroom experiences. Through her field experience, she learned the importance of tailoring her teaching strategies to individual students by incorporating students’ interests to connect on a more personal level.  

 
Through Anna’s interactions in the classroom, she secured a job at Liberty High School working with students who are transferring out of high school into college or the workforce. Anna attributes her job success to CU ExL and the valuable training sessions that Liberty High School provided. Anna is thankful for how Clemson’s teaching program prepares future graduates for the challenges of the teaching profession. She has learned the importance of seeking support and advocating for herself and this has equipped her with the skills to handle classroom uncertainties and conflicts.  

One touching interaction that made Anna thankful for this experience was with a nonverbal student who blew her a kiss and asked for a hug on her last day of teaching. Moments like these reinforce teachers’ impact on students even when they are not immediately apparent.  

Anna strongly recommends CU ExL for anyone and everyone as it is a fantastic way to prepare students for their careers. Her story emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding for special needs students and educators. There is no doubt that Anna will continue to make a lasting difference extending far beyond the classroom walls. 

By: McKenna Miller

It can take some time for students to search for that one course that resonates with their passions and interests. This was true for Joshua Steele, a senior landscape architecture major with an art minor, and that course has led him to the world of public art.  

Joshua was unaware of public art’s impact on his academic and creative journey at Clemson. This course emphasizes collaboration and networking, allowing Joshua to work alongside various artists within and outside the University. Joshua discovered the power of art to not only enhance aesthetics but also the power of storytelling through hands-on projects and installations on Clemson’s campus. 

The course’s experiential learning approach differs from traditional classroom settings that expose students to a work-like atmosphere with active participation and real-world application. This shift pushed Joshua out of his comfort zone, teaching him the value of taking risks and embracing new experiences. Networking and communication skills have positioned him to navigate the art world confidently and left him with a portfolio of projects to showcase his talents. One of Joshua’s most rewarding experiences has been meeting well-known artists and learning from their expertise.  

Joshua advises fellow creatives to seek guidance from mentors and delve into new projects. 

The public art course has been more than just a class for Joshua — it’s been a learning experience that has shaped his creative journey in art!  

By: McKenna Miller