Gies College of Business

How does experiential learning lead to success after graduation?

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May 6, 2020 Accountancy Business Administration Finance Student


Experiential learning forces interdisciplinary thinking and requires complex problem solving in a practical context, according to Professor Michael Bednar, academic director of the Magelli Office of Experiential Learning.

Experiential learning is important because it helps students develop some of the top skills employers demand: problem solving and working with others. Often called soft skills, they are increasingly critical for both career and personal success across a variety of disciplines.

According to the latest survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 87% of recruiters named problem solving as either the most or second most important quality for jobs they plan to fill with business school graduates. Working with others was second highest; it was listed as first or second most important on 81% of surveys. The Magelli Office of Experiential Learning at Gies College of Business takes this kind of survey feedback from employers seriously.

Gies College of Business
515 East Gregory Drive
Champaign, IL 61820
Phone: 217-300-7327