Explore; Engage; Excel: The Power of Experiential Learning

Jessica J. Rhea, M. Ed. is the Sr. Director of Experiential Learning & Career Development at Florida Gulf Coast University. In this role, she works collaboratively with the Directors of Service-Learning, Internships, and Career Development to increase student success and career-readiness by institutionalizing service-learning and internship experiences at FGCU. By integrating these real-world, hands-on learning experiences into our students’ education, they can explore career paths and gain the necessary knowledge and skills to equip themselves for their future professional endeavors. Prior to this role, Jessica held the position of Director of Service-Leaning and Civic Engagement for ten years. Her work in this field has earned FGCU much recognition in the field of community engagement. Relevant Publications include authoring the chapter “Service-Learning as a High Impact Practice” in Making the Sustainable University and co-authoring the chapter “Attention and Action” in the Sage Sourcebook of Service-Learning and Civic Engagement.