Enter your experiential learning era | Experience, Reflect, Act (ERA)

At the Student Success Centre, co-curricular experiential learning is all about taking what you learn in class and putting it into action. These are hands-on experiences that help you build skills, explore career options and make connections — while making your time at McMaster even more meaningful. Use this resource to help you get started.

August 27, 2025

By: Stephanie Cognigni, Experiential Programming and Outreach Coordinator

How to get started

  • Community projects that create real impact
  • Mentorship programs with peers or professionals
  • Fellowships that grow your leadership skills
  • Workplace simulations that let you test-drive career scenarios
  • Clubs and student groups where you can lead, plan and collaborate

These activities help you develop the skills employers value most — like communication, teamwork and problem-solving — while letting you apply your knowledge in real-world situations.

Think of it as a chance to boost your resume, meet great people and discover what you’re capable of. Whether you want to prepare for your career, explore something new or just get involved, we’ll help you find the right opportunity.

We can help you experience, reflect and act (ERA)

We have the resources and supports to help you not only gain experience but also reflect on what you’ve learned and create an action plan. This will help you leverage each experience to enhance your academic and career journey. 

This experiential learning model ensures that you gain the skills and critical thinking needed to maximize your learning experience.

Use these resources to help you get started and guide your experiential learning journey.

Experience, Reflect Act model for experiential learning.
  1. Experience: pre-assessment, goal-setting, midpoint check-in
  2. Reflect: reflection sessions, one-on-one appointments, post-assessment
  3. Act: career counselling, EXPLORE platform, career conversations

Experience | Setting goals for experiential learning

Use SMART goals to prepare to make the most of any experiential learning opportunity When setting goals, using the SMART...

Reflect | Understanding your experiences

Ask yourself these questions to guide your reflection and make the most of your experience 1. Skills and knowledge gained:...

Act | Making an experiential learning action plan

What to consider when creating a post-placement action plan Your action plan checklist Career counselling appointment: Book a one-on-one career...