Experiential Learning Through the Decades
For 16 years, Albertus Magnus College has set aside one day each spring to celebrate learning that happens beyond the traditional classroom. During Experiential Learning Day (ELD), classes pause as students present internships, research projects, service-learning experiences, and other hands-on work to the campus community, showcasing how practical experience deepens academic learning.
In honor of the College’s Centennial Year, this year’s event featured a special alumni keynote panel, Experiential Learning Through the Decades, highlighting how hands-on learning opportunities have shaped Albertus students across generations. The conversation brought together alumni from different eras to reflect on the lasting impact of experiences that extended far beyond campus.
Katie Hayes ’06, founder of Bespoke Wellness CT and a licensed professional counselor based in Westport, shared how her Albertus internship experience helped lay the foundation for her career in mental health counseling. As a sociology major with a concentration in social work, Hayes completed an internship at a daycare center during her senior year. Working with young children and families gave her early experience supporting vulnerable populations, skills she says she still relies on in her practice today. She also credited Albertus with helping her build a strong professional network and community that continues to support her personally and professionally.
Leiyanie “Lee” Osorio ’15, ’18 M.S. offered a different perspective on the transformative power of experiential learning. A New Haven native who spent her childhood between Connecticut and Puerto Rico, Lee said her experiences shaped her passion for restorative justice, youth advocacy, and community development.
While at Albertus, Lee participated in a Habitat for Humanity service-learning trip to Canada, an experience that introduced her to travel in a new way and sparked an unexpected interest in transportation systems and accessibility. That experience later influenced her advocacy work, including speaking at New Haven City Hall on transportation issues.
The panel also featured a surprise guest: Bonnie Dingus ’07, ’10 M.B.A., Director of Faculty Support and Curriculum Services at Albertus and one of this year’s ELD planners. As an alumna of Albertus’ adult degree program, Bonnie reflected on balancing coursework with a full-time career. Because she was working while attending classes, she was able to immediately apply what she was learning in the classroom to her professional role the very next day, demonstrating that experiential learning can happen in real time.
Together, the panelists demonstrated that experiential learning takes many forms, and that the lessons learned often continue to shape careers and communities long after graduation.