Learning Transformed
by Suburban Life/Philadelphia Life Staff

Nestled along the coastline and just one hour from New York City and Philadelphia, you’ll find a warm, friendly atmosphere and experience the historic architecture mingled among new academic buildings and residence halls that students are drawn to.

From top facilities to the engaged faculty, it’s evident that Monmouth University takes pride in preparing students to succeed in life. At Monmouth, transformative learning does not only take place in a lecture hall but through a variety of ways—some experiential, technological, collaborative and innovative.

Collaboration Beyond the Classroom

The University is committed to learning experiences that are high-impact, immersive and extend beyond the classroom. Research opportunities are a transformative way for qualified students in any major to work one-on-one with faculty on a wide variety of topics, and to nurture both the student’s intellectual and career passions. Employers want to see how job candidates think and function, analytically and creatively.

“Our students are gaining experience that serves as the perfect bridge from college to career—they make a real impression,” says Dr. Kathryn Kloby, vice provost for transformative learning.

Arturo Romua ‘13 attended Monmouth for its marine and environmental biology and policy major. Since then, he has taken what he learned in the classroom and from research projects, to benefit a larger learning experience.

“What stands out the most would be my research in the Bahamas,” Romua says. “I took a Tropical Island Ecology course as my Experiential Education class, and for two weeks, I was with 19 other students examining coral reef and mangrove ecosystems. We snorkeled almost on a daily basis and got to experience sustainable living.”

Partnerships with Industry Leaders

Monmouth University also has established networks of professionals for each of its schools, who serve in an advisory capacity. These councils help to advance distinctive curricula and degree programs and are an essential part of the fabric of the University.

 “We want to ensure our students are intellectually challenged and that our graduates are fully prepared for life after Monmouth—personally and professionally,” says Provost Laura Moriarty. “Our advisory councils are helping us to train students with skill sets that are in demand. And it is not just students’ technical skills we are developing—preparing students for the workforce also requires mastering skills such as leadership.”

Council members also support Monmouth’s students by talking to them about dressing for success, advising on résumé writing and appropriate social media skills, and instilling the value of teamwork.

Focused on Real-World Experience

At Monmouth University, students gain hands-on experience working in and around New York City and Philadelphia. In fact, 78 percent of Monmouth students have completed a practicum, internship, co-op, or similar “real-world” experience by their senior year—that’s more than 30 percentage points above the national average at comparable institutions.

For Monmouth alumni Thomas Beaufort ‘15 of Philadelphia and senior Amy Rosenzweig ’17 of Springfield, Pa., internships were key. Thomas turned his internship into a full-time position and is currently an operations credit risk analyst for J.P. Morgan. Amy is finishing her international business degree at Monmouth University’s Leon Hess Business School and secured an internship with De Lage Landen, an international finance firm. Both credit their internships in helping them gain experience and open the door to great job opportunities.

On a Mission to Make a Difference

Through Monmouth’s alternative break program students can use spring and winter break time to give back—in the next town or across the globe. From helping communities in Sea Bright, N.J. recover from Superstorm Sandy to building a new school in Guatamala, Monmouth provides unique opportunities for students to help others while learning more about the world around them.

From first-year advising to career services and experiential education, Monmouth helps students plan ahead from the very first day. Students, in turn, gain valuable hands-on experience that has led more than 48,000 alumni to successful careers throughout the country and around the world.

 

MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY
400 Cedar Avenue
West Long Branch, N.J.
(732) 571-3456
Monmouth.edu

Published (and copyrighted) in Suburban Life Magazine, June, 2017.