Hands-on experiences, such as internships, clinical training and field placements, build a bridge between classroom studies and future careers. They increase resilience and confidence in our Highlanders and help them stand out among their peers. They also provide pathways to expanded networks, refined skills and increased job offers. According to Jeanne Mekolichick, Associate Provost for Academic Affairs, 81% of students in Radford's 2024 graduating class participated in at least one experiential learning opportunity. The three most popular were internships, undergraduate research and special trainings, which include experiences like field work, apprenticeships or capstone projects.
Yet, these experiences are commonly unpaid, low-paid or require resources that our students can't afford. In Virginia, more than 45,000 college students participated in some type of internship in fiscal year 2025, according to V-TOP (Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership). Only about 12% of them got paid.
Work-based opportunities like these are often located far from campus, requiring students to drive or fly to their destination. They also require students to secure food—and in some cases, housing—for the duration of their training. Many even require specialized equipment, software or certifications.
These situations present a barrier and lead to missed opportunities as some students consider turning down ideal placements—or even delaying graduation—simply because they can’t afford the commute or expenses.
The Highlander Works Fund can open the door for a Highlander to participate in a meaningful experience that prepares them for their future. This fund assists students—regardless of major—with expenses while they gain priceless hands-on training in their field. Having these vital funds means our students can gain critical experience without going into debt to pay for the associated expenses.
Your investment is more than a donation; it’s a commitment to join our students on their journeys of personal and academic exploration and growth.
GIVING LEVELS AND IMPACT
$25
Covers lunch or coffee for networking opportunities.
$50
Covers one day of gas for a student commuting to an on-site learning experience.
$100
Supports a week of meals for a student at their work-based learning experience.
$250
Equips students with technology or professional supplies such as software, certification testing or lab equipment.
$500
Funds airfare or long-distance transportation for a student traveling to a hard-to-reach placement.
$1,000
Provides a full month of housing for a student during an internship or work-based learning experience.
YOU MAKE STUDENT EXPERIENCES LIKE THESE POSSIBLE!
"I found the opportunity for my Cloud Data Engineering Internship at AutoZone through Career and Talent Development at Radford University. I was able to utilize funding provided by the university to take my experience out-of-state. From learning new technologies to gaining hands-on industry experience, this internship has been an incredible step toward my future career. Opportunities like this are just one of the ways Highlanders are supported beyond the classroom." – Utibeenoabasi U.
"This internship confirmed that I want to work in a technical, problem-solving field, likely within scientific computing, research or cybersecurity. It gave me more confidence in handling open-ended tasks and showed me what it takes to contribute effectively on a team.
I now feel more prepared to step into future roles with the skills and habits I’ve developed. This experience also showed me what a healthy, high-functioning technical environment looks like, and I’ll be looking for that same balance of challenge and support in future opportunities." – Adam F.
"My experience at Select Physical Therapy helped me gain a better understanding of what it’s like to work in healthcare. I was able to observe patient interactions, help with daily tasks and learn how a care team works together.
This experience has truly helped me gain confidence in my ability to work in a healthcare setting. It also confirmed my interest in the field and made me more excited to continue learning and finding where I belong within it. I may not have all the answers yet, but this internship was a helpful step in determining my path. This experience provided me with skills, insight and motivation that I will carry forward into my future career." – Jaiden T.
"This internship confirmed my passion for interior design but also expanded my vision for the future. I now see myself not just as a designer, but as a potential business owner. Before this experience, I saw design as a creative field I wanted to work in. Now, I see it as a platform where I can eventually lead, innovate and even start something of my own." – Emma K.
