How to Make the Most of Extracurricular Activities

Before jumping “all in” to a new commitment or membership, think about how your involvement can improve your college experience. Will you meet new and fascinating people while having some fun? Will your participation open doors to industry professionals who can help you with internships and jobs? Or maybe you just want to check out a new interest without declaring it as your major?

No matter what your motivation may be, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has several options for you to consider.

Clubs/Organizations

Many of the university’s more than 300 extracurricular activities offer networking opportunities with industry professionals. With something for every interest, it’s important to pinpoint which clubs work best for your passions, schedule and future goals.

In Daytona Beach, the Business Eagles hold mock interviews, etiquette lunches, site visits and guest presentations from industry professionals.

“The Business Eagle program has provided me opportunities that I would otherwise not be able to partake in on my own,” said recent graduate Leonard Rodriguez. “The opportunities I have had at this university are like none other. I have been able to meet with top airline executives (CEOs, CFOs, and VPs), attend industry-related professional development seminars and achieve a world-class degree.”

Another student group with industry ties is the ALPA Collegiate Aviation Professional Development Airline Career Education Club (ALPA ACE). The organization works to bridge the gap between academic and technical skills while developing interpersonal skills and maturity needed to work for an airline.

Internships

If you’re looking to “test drive” a job or specific interest, do some research on internships. They offer insight into what you do and do not like in a job and also let you explore different industries.  

“Internships truly are the new interview,” explained Laura Polk, assistant director of career services and corporate relations at Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus. “Not only will you be more likely to get hired by the company you interned with, but you will also be more appealing to other companies.”

This experience is one of the most powerful tools to incorporate into your resume since it demonstrates initiative and professional experience.

“I recommend visiting your campus Career Services office early and often,” Polk said. “The staff can help you prepare everything you will need, including a refined resume, interview tips, and a profile on your respective campus’ job posting website.”

It’s also important to attend Career Services’ events, such as career fairs, company presentations and networking events. Making those face-to-face connections is a vital step to landing your dream internship.

Mentoring

Many professionals have special people in their lives who have offered support, inspiration and guidance that have contributed to their success. While mentors can play a significant role in your development, it’s not always easy to find one.

Embry-Riddle students can seek mentorship through the Boeing Bridge Program. This unique partnership connects alumni who work at Boeing with current students for a personal mentor-mentee relationship. The competitive program provides opportunities for resume improvement, interview practice, networking, and mentoring as well as insight into careers available at The Boeing Company.

“The Boeing Bridge Program is important for both Embry-Riddle and Boeing,” shared alumna Bailey Eaton, an aerospace engineer at Boeing Company. “Not only does the program help students learn about the aerospace industry, but we believe that it also helps Boeing learn about students at ERAU and connect with potential candidates for positions at the company! This mentorship program is also a great way for employees at Boeing to gain mentoring experience and tell students about awesome career opportunities that they may encounter in their future.”

To learn more about the various extracurricular, internships and mentoring opportunities available, visit erau.edu.