Learning beyond the classroom
Connect, serve and lead
What makes a great leader? At Union, it's about getting involved and learning by doing. From day one, you'll turn your curiosity into action through hands-on experiences that challenge you, spark your creativity and help you find your voice. Whether you're in a research lab, a design studio, leading a student organization or working with the Schenectady community, you'll have countless opportunities to grow, lead and make an impact—your way.
Here are just some of the ways Union students can extend their learning beyond the classroom:
- Partner with local groups and leaders to advance equity, justice and measurable social impact.
- Choose immersive courses that blend academic study with community-based learning.
- Pursue in-depth research abroad through a term-long international experience.
- Complete a signature research project with faculty mentors—nearly 80% of students finish a senior thesis or capstone, with many presenting at the Steinmetz Symposium.
What makes a great leader? At Union, it's about getting involved and learning by doing. From day one, you'll turn your curiosity into action through hands-on experiences that challenge you, spark your creativity and help you find your voice. Whether you're in a research lab, a design studio, leading a student organization or working with the Schenectady community, you'll have countless opportunities to grow, lead and make an impact—your way.
Here are just some of the ways Union students can extend their learning beyond the classroom:
- Partner with local groups and leaders to advance equity, justice and measurable social impact.
- Choose immersive courses that blend academic study with community-based learning.
- Pursue in-depth research abroad through a term-long international experience.
- Complete a signature research project with faculty mentors—nearly 80% of students finish a senior thesis or capstone, with many presenting at the Steinmetz Symposium.
Get involved:
Kenney Center for Community Engagement and Outreach
Work with local organizations, tackle real community challenges, and make an immediate impact through hands-on projects and meaningful volunteer experiences in Schenectady.
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Career Center in Becker Hall
Explore career paths, secure internships, and build professional skills through experiential learning and personalized advising that turn your interests into confident, purpose-driven career plans.
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International Programs
Immerse yourself in another culture, apply learning in real-world settings, and expand your perspective through transformative study abroad experiences—from marine ecology in Australia to art, history, and archaeology across Europe.
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Undergraduate Research
Create new knowledge, collaborate closely with faculty mentors, and share your discoveries through hands-on research across every discipline. Research at Union happens everywhere—from cutting-edge labs to studios, streams and communities near and far.
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