Internships, mentored research, and study abroad are at the heart of the engaged student learning mission at ABAC. In support of these opportunities we have implemented the STudent Engagement ProgramS (STEPS), through this program, we also offer workshops, information sessions, scholarships, and an annual STEPS Symposium.
STEPS
ABOUT STEPS
About STEPS
Engaged learning opportunities play a key role in a student’s educational experience at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College as we work to fulfill our mission “To engage, teach, coach, mentor, and provide relevant experiences that prepare the Graduate for life.” ABAC’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), STudent Engagement ProgramS (STEPS), will assist the College in achieving its mission and in implementing its strategic plan, Destination ABAC, by focusing on the development and enhancement of engaged learning opportunities. The Engaged Learning opportunities that are the focus of the STEPS program are internships, mentored research, and study abroad. Through participation in these engaged learning opportunities, students will develop knowledge, skills, and abilities critical to career and post-graduate success. Students will develop problem-solving skills, verbal and written communication skills, and demonstrate their ability to apply what they have learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. The STEPS student learning outcomes are:
- Students will demonstrate the skills, abilities, theories, or methodologies applied in new situations to solve problems or explore issues. (Problem-Solving Skills)
- Students will communicate discipline content using conventions appropriate to a specific audience and purpose. (Verbal and Written Communication Skills)
- Students will synthesize disciplinary knowledge applied in new, complex situations. (Application of Knowledge)
The goals of STEPS are the following:
- STEPS will provide adequate resources, tools, support, and guidance to its students and faculty to facilitate engaged learning experiences;
- STEPS will increase the number of students doing internships, completing mentored research projects, and studying abroad.
ABAC Connect
A portal to connect students and alumni, career development, and employers and organizations.
Internships
What is an internship? Experiences that allow theory and practice to work together to support student learning. During an internship, students have the opportunity to apply knowledge learned in the classroom in a real-world context. The internship experience can help students better understand the nature of the career paths they have chosen, and serve to launch students’ careers and expand professional networks.
Mentored Research
ABAC students have opportunities to conduct mentored research with faculty in conjunction with our bachelor’s degree programs.
Mentored Research is an inquiry or investigation conducted by undergraduate students under the guidance of an expert that makes an intellectual or creative contribution to the discipline.
Some research projects will need to be reviewed by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) or the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to ensure compliance with federal regulations.
All persons conducting research involving human subjects should visit the ABAC IRB page for more information on which projects will require approval.
All persons conducting research on non-human vertebrates should visit the ABAC IACUC page for more information on which projects will require approval.
STEPS Symposium
The Council on Undergraduate Research has designated April 17-21, 2023 as Undergraduate Research Week. The work of ABAC students and their faculty mentors will be showcased at the sixth annual STEPS Symposium on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
Further details regarding this event and information on submission of abstracts for consideration will be available in February 2023.
Questions? Contact us at studentengagement@abac.edu.
Study Abroad
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to grow academically, socially, and culturally. Through experiencing different cultures and seeing new and exciting parts of the world, our students have gained new perspectives and global awareness. Recent ABAC students have taken part in courses designed to be closely aligned with their program of study in Argentina, Belize, France, England, Ireland, Italy, and Norway.
In addition to ABAC-sponsored programs, students may also participate in study abroad trips organized by the University System of Georgia. Information on these opportunities can be found on the USG Goes Global website.
If you have general questions about study abroad, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Marcus Johnson.
STEPS Student Engagement Scholarship
The purpose of the Student Engagement Scholarship is to provide financial assistance to students who are involved in engaged learning experiences such as mentored research, study abroad, or internships.
Students are encouraged to submit scholarship applications at least 30 days prior to their engaged learning experience.
Related Links
Contact Information
Phone
229.391.5232Tift Hall
ABAC 9, 2802 Moore Hwy, Tifton, GA 31793