202: Inside the AU Ready Pledge: Preparing Students for Meaningful Internships and Research

Session Location: Hall of Science (HoS) Room T-07 | Google Map

Date: Wednesday, August 19

Time: 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM

Presenters: Bridget Trogden (Dean of Undergraduate Education & Academic Student Services) & Brian Rowe (Director of Experiential Education, Career Center)

Session Description:

Beginning in fall 2026, the AU Ready pledge (part of the Meet our Moment strategic plan) will provide undergraduate students with at least sophomore standing access to a one-time $4,500 funding opportunity to support participation in an unpaid or underpaid internship or an on-campus mentored research experience. In this session, leaders from the Career Center and Office of Undergraduate Education will review program details, including eligibility requirements, funding procedures, and the career and research preparation activities students must complete before receiving support.

Presenters will discuss how The Pledge expands access to high-impact experiential learning opportunities and complement existing experiential learning programs at AU. They will also outline the steps students can take to access funding, beginning this fall, and share practical strategies for faculty and staff to support student participation, connect courses and academic programs to the pledge, and help students reflect on and communicate their experiences for peer learning, networking, and future career success.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify key components of the AU Ready pledge, including eligibility requirements, funding procedures, and required career and research preparation activities students must complete before receiving support.
2. Explain how the AU Ready pledge expands access to high impact experiential learning opportunities and complements existing internship, practicum, and research experiences at AU.
3. Apply practical strategies to advise students on accessing AU Ready funding and to integrate the pledge into courses and academic programs, including facilitating reflection and helping students articulate their experiences for peer learning, networking, and career development.