Experiential Learning is an integral part of the entire Kalamazoo College education.  The Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) helps students find internships that will deepen their undergraduate education.   Study abroad programs require students to complete an Integrated Cultural Research Project (ICRP) through working in organizations or businesses in one's host country.  The College also offers study away programs for students to delve into their passions like the Philadelphia Center which combines seminars with semester-long internships.  Students at K-College learn in the classroom but they also spend time learning by doing, especially in regard to issues of sustainability.  The Land Sea Program, Study Abroad, and Service-Learning all allow students to gain a deeper understanding of sustainability through experiential learning programs.

Land Sea

LandSea is Kalamazoo College's outdoor orientation program that takes place before the start of classes. Each year, a number of returning students act as group leaders for incoming students on this backpacking, sailing, and climbing adventure.

Study Abroad

Students may choose to study abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to further their environmental education.  Thailand's study abroad program centers on sustainable development.  Students must prepare themselves physically and mentally for expeditions, field work, and internships through the "People, Ecology, and Development" program.  Students take a diverse core of classes in agriculture, forests, and island environments to name a few.  Read more>>>

Service-Learning

 The Mary Jane Underwood Stryker Institute for Service-Learning promotes sustainability through a variety of service-learning programs. The Institute for Service-Learning combines service-learning courses and student-led projects to link "K" students, staff, and faculty with individuals and organizations promoting sustainability.  The projects focus on  local food, migrant health and pesticide use, and sustainable education projects at Woodward Elementary School.  The Institute emphasizes community outreach and recently partnered with the Physical Education Department to start a gardening class and community garden.  Read more>>>