Learning Outside the Classroom

Our department is committed to providing opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning experiences that complement their academic coursework. Through internships, service learning, and real-world projects, students can apply their knowledge in practical settings and gain valuable skills for their future careers.

Conference Participation

We encourage students to participate in conferences as a way to enhance their learning and network with professionals in their field. Below is a list of conferences that our students and staff have attended:

  • National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Annual Conference
  • American College Personnel Association (ACPA) Convention
  • National Conference on Race and Ethnicity in Higher Education (NCORE)
  • Asian Pacific Americans in Higher Education (APAHE) Conference
  • College Board Dream Deferred Conference
  • College Board Prepárate Conference
  • American Educational Research Association (AERA) Annual Meeting
  • National Indian Education Association Convention (NIEA) and Trade Show
  • Harvard Kennedy School Public Policy Conference
  • Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Annual Conference
  • California Council of Cultural Centers in Higher Education (CaCCCHE) Annual Retreat
  • California Higher Education Basic Needs Alliance (CHEBNA) Summit
  • University of California Risk Summit

Travel Opportunities

In addition to conference participation, our department offers various travel opportunities for students to explore new environments, engage with diverse communities, and enhance their global perspective. These opportunities provide invaluable experiences for personal and professional growth.

The following are a sample of experiential learning opportunities students have engaged in with the support of the Community Programs Office:

  • Clinton Global University (New Orleans and Coral Gables)
  • Olive Tree Initiative (Washington D.C., New York City, Amman, Jerusalem, Ramallah)
  • Leadership Exchange (Dakar)
  • Texas Higher Education Exploration (Houston, College Station, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas)
  • Standing Rock Reservation

Leadership Retreats

Our department organizes leadership retreats designed to foster student growth, team building, and leadership development. These retreats offer a unique opportunity for students to reflect on their leadership styles, engage with peers, and develop skills that enhance their academic and professional success.

A sample of retreats include:

  • Student Transition Retreats (Greater Palm Springs, established in 1990s)
  • Departmental Internship Retreats (Great Palm Springs, established in 2010)
  • Women’s and Men’s Retreats (Oceanside/San Diego, established in 2013 and 2009, respectively)
  • Student Advisory Board Retreats (Santa Maria/Santa Inez Valley, established in 2012)