Out-of-Class Learning
What makes the Wisconsin Experience unique is not only the opportunities for students to learn and grow in the classroom, but the breadth of options available outside of the classroom that help prepare students for success in today’s global economy. Below are some important resources students may use to access out-of-class-learning experiences. We encourage parents and families to talk with their students about taking advantage of these important opportunities.
Creating Community: Promoting Diversity and Climate at UW–Madison
Division of Student Life
The Division of Student Life (DSL) comprises ten departments that cultivate, advance, and interconnect the academic, professional, personal, and social development of students and champion a respectful, globally engaged, and diverse university community. Offices include:
- Associated Students of Madison (ASM) is the official student government of UW-Madison, representing all students. A volunteer and campaign-driven organization, ASM advocates for student issues and concerns on campus as well as at the state and national levels.
- Center for Leadership and Involvement promotes student involvement as an integral part of a university education by supporting and registering student organizations.
- Greater University Tutoring Services (GUTS) connects UW students with volunteer tutors for assistance with academic courses, study skills, conversational English, and intercultural exchange.
- International Student Services provides information and programs to international students about the campus and community and provides support and assistance concerning visas and related immigration issues.
- Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Campus Center provides the services and resources necessary to meet the social, emotional, academic, and cultural needs of LGBTQ students.
- McBurney Disability Resource Center is the campus resource for students and non-employees with physical, psychological, sensory, and learning disabilities. Accommodations include testing accommodations, interpreters, notetakers, reader services, and registration assistance.
- Multicultural Student Center provides out-of-classroom experiences for students and other members of the university community to learn about and appreciate other cultures.
- Center for the First-Year Experience examines, informs, facilitates, cultivates, and enhances the first-year experience at UW–Madison.
- Student Advocacy & Judicial Affairs provides advocacy and support services and manages the university’s academic and non-academic misconduct systems.
- Vets for Vets identifies the needs and provides support for students with military experience
The benefits of Joining a Student Organization:
Get involved on campus.
SOO connects students with involvement opportunities, including more
than 700 student organizations, undergraduate research opportunities,
volunteer service opportunities, sports clubs, music groups, internships,
and social fraternities and sororities.
Build leadership skills.
Develop skills in communication, team building, conflict resolution,
leading effective meetings, delegation, social justice, and more.
Develop confidence. Focusing on self, developing confidence and motivation while working within groups.
UW Student Job Center
The UW Student Job Center maintains extensive listings of on- and off-campus part-time and summer employment opportunities. Students who have been offered funds from the Federal Work-Study Program as part of their financial aid package may find available positions through this service. Typically, new undergraduate students work 10 to 12 hours a week, depending on the ability to balance academic requirements and a work schedule.
Morgridge Center
The Morgridge Center for Public Service makes it easy for students to get involved in the community. Public service allows them to meet new people, provide needed services to nonprofit organizations, and receive rewarding and practical experience.
The Wisconsin Idea is the principle that education should influence and improve people’s lives beyond the university classroom. Through the Wisconsin Idea, the university continues to make a difference in the lives of Wisconsin citizens.
Undergraduate Research Scholars Program
Undergraduate Research Scholars earn course credit for participating in a year-long course of study that includes a seminar on issues in research and hands-on experience with a mentor’s research project in any area of scholarship and the arts represented at UW–Madison.
Information about other internships, research and volunteer opportunities
- Letters and Science Career Services
- Go Global! International Careers
- College of Agricultural and Life Sciences internships
- College of Agricultural and Life Sciences research opportunities
- Engineering Career Services
- International Academic Internships Initiative (IAII)
For additional opportunities for engaging in out of class learning, see Getting Involved.