Liberal arts and science students discover the power of Engaged Learning at Rider

Over the summer, John Gulliver, a senior majoring in chemistry in Rider’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), conducted research at the University of Arkansas improving upon a novel chemical reaction that has potential applications for synthesizing neurological drugs.

This spring, Gulliver expects to present his research results at both the Independent College Fund of New Jersey (ICFNJ) Research Symposium and the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society.

Gulliver’s experience, which began in Rider’s science labs and was supported through financial support from the National Science Foundation and ICFNJ, is emblematic of the research opportunities Rider students have regularly seized over time.

The University’s Engaged Learning Program, which officially launched last year, codifies such co-curricular activities, which make up the heart of a Rider education. As part of the Engaged Learning Program, all Rider students must complete at least two qualifying experiences to satisfy their graduation requirements.

In addition to guided research and scholarship, other engaged learning experiences include internships, co-ops and fieldwork; study abroad and cultural exploration; arts, media and creativity; and civic and community engagement.

Engaged Learning occurs across disciplines. Rob Rose, a senior majoring in sports media, is currently working as a digital content intern for the Philadelphia Union, a Major League Soccer team located in Chester, Pa. He has contributed to the organization's press team by capturing video and photos of fans, pregame activities and game highlights that have been featured on the Union's Twitter and Instagram accounts, which have a combined reach of almost 200,000 followers.

“Students studying the liberal arts and sciences are extremely well-positioned to take advantage of the engaged learning opportunities at Rider,” says CLAS Dean Jonathan Millen. “We are laser-focused on ensuring our students have access to and participate in the experiences that align with their career goals and personal interests and will benefit them for the rest of their lives.”

Since being introduced in the fall of 2016, Rider’s undergraduate program in health sciences has quickly become one of the University’s most popular programs. Students wasted no time taking advantage of engaged learning opportunities to bolster their academic experiences and make them more competitive in the job market. The program offers students a well-rounded degree that provides a pathway for a multitude of careers in hospitals, health insurance, pharmaceutical sales, community health agencies and other related areas.

Senior Emmaleigh Hauck, who is also majoring in health sciences, recently completed an internship at University Orthopedic Associates, where she shadowed orthopedic surgeons with different areas of expertise. During her time, she observed their interactions with patients during surgeries, diagnostic procedures and other aspects of clinical care. Other students, such as seniors Nicholas Leelum and Dallas Geoghegan, landed valuable internships where they expanded their knowledge of the field by working hands-on with professionals.