Where to Find an APE

The idea for an APE can come from many places. Some students may be aware of an organization with which they want to work with, while others know there is a specific content area they would like to explore.  Students may also seek potential opportunities by contacting organizations of interest, networking, and applying to openings posted on the ROL Handshake or through the Office of Career Development. During the school year, students may also find work-study or part time positions that may develop into an APE, such as those through the Rollins Earn and Learn (REAL) program. Additionally, opportunities are continually being developed through departments for students to enrich their learning through structured professional experiences. 

Students may also find APE ideas by reviewing our map highlighting past Rollins Applied Practice Experiences around the globe (see the map below). APE projects have been completed in not‐for‐profit organizations, hospitals, state or local health departments, federal agencies, community-based organizations, and for‐profit firms.

Students can find APE opportunities by:

  • contacting organizations of interest directly,
  • networking with other students, alumni and representatives from the organization,
  • communications with department ADAPs, faculty, faculty advisors, or
  • an appointment with a Career Development coach.

Other sources for identifying potential APE opportunities may include:

 

ROL Handshake

This resource lists jobs and internships targeting Rollins students.

Some REAL experiences may satisfy the practicum requirement.

The GFE program allows students to work in low-resource, high-disparity settings around the world.

APE opportunities may be paid or unpaid depending on funding available at the organization. Unpaid experiences still offer an immeasurable opportunity to build practical skills, gain professional skills, make a tangible difference, and open doors for future opportunities.

Students often use a Global Field Experience (GFE) to fulfill the APE requirement. Students typically receive support for GFE experiences through funding from organizations, scholarships, personal savings or grants, such as the Global Field Experience Awards.