Internships Give Students Hands-on Learning Experience

April 29, 2005

Learning isn't something only done in the textbooks and classrooms for Olivet students. It is a creative process which demands multi-faceted approaches in such environments as provided through the university's internship programs.

On a recent weekend, students enrolled in Olivet's Journalism program saw first-hand how learning doesn't have to be imagined but can be experienced in the field - literally. On April 17, Journalism students participating in internship offered through the Christian Post newspapers found themselves on the field of Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, working alongside news reporters on a story of Saddleback Church's 25th Anniversary Celebration.

"We were able to get up close to take photos of the event and conduct interviews," said Ji Eun Chang, journalism student. "Whether I'm in the office or on an assignment, the internships have allowed me to apply what I learned in class to real life. Plus, I'm also able to improve on things you can only learn by doing such as communicating to interviewees."

For students pursuing theology-related degrees at Olivet, service at local churches and partnerships with Apostolos Campus Ministry have played a strong role in shaping them as effective ministers who are not only equipped with a solid theological background but also a generous heart of compassion and love. "Jesus wasn't the truth, the way, and the life because he only preached," said Sun Young, 2nd year graduate student, "He revealed the glory of God through his life and actions. What good is all the education I'm receiving if I can't share Jesus with others?"

Similar hands-on opportunities are also available through Olivet's Music internship programs, led by Jubilee Mission International. The Christian music ministry arranges for Olivet music students to fine-tune their musical talents by performing in concerts and to develop their understanding of Christian culture through listening to the performances and testimonies of accomplished Christian music artists. Students in this program recently took a trip to Nashville, Tennessee, where they attended the week-long Gospel Music Association convention, April 9-13.

"The students had a really fun and fruitful experience," said Chris Chou, Jubilee Mission member and Olivet student. "From talking to the artists, the students were able to see how their faith inspired the songs the artists sing and write."

Olivet University's effort to support field-specific internships is part of unique educational approach to fuse together theory and practice in a continuous learning environment where students can use theory to form practice and practice to refine theory.

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