The University of Pittsburgh announced on Mar. 17 that its Experiential Learning Student Showcase will highlight how students apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects across disciplines.
The event aims to make experiential learning opportunities more visible and accessible, as the university seeks to connect undergraduate education with career readiness and personal growth. Sponsored by the Gismondi Foundation, the showcase reflects Pitt’s ongoing efforts to support hands-on learning experiences for students.
Belkys Torres, associate vice provost for curricular innovation, said that while many high-impact opportunities already exist at Pitt, they are often scattered across programs and departments. “Our community talked a lot about the fact that we’re an institution that cares about educating well-rounded students, both inside and outside the classroom,” Torres said. “We do a lot to support students’ learning, not just on the theoretical side of the house — but through hands-on learning.”
Torres also addressed growing questions from students and families about how higher education prepares graduates for their careers. “We are answering that question very concretely by showing students what it means not only to learn theory, but how to apply that theory in practical ways, with an eye toward solving real world problems, working in teams, and engaging across diverse communities and experiences — all of the competencies that we know are important for students to succeed in their personal and professional lives in the future,” she said.
Among the featured projects is Panther Racing, Pitt’s Formula SAE team. The student-run engineering group will display its 2025 vehicle, PR-037, which placed sixth overall at a recent competition. The team transitioned to an electric vehicle last year after decades of using internal combustion engines and introduced a new hub motor all-wheel-drive system this year. Celia Bayer, business and operations director for Panther Racing and a junior double majoring in marketing and business analytics, described the experience: “Every aspect of Panther Racing revolves around the creation of a high-performance, formula style car capable of reaching 100-plus mph. The true value of this experience is the hands-on creation, as by the end of the year, every design decision you’ve made will be tested on the track.”
Global leadership opportunities are also highlighted through programs like the Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership. This initiative supports Pennsylvania students studying abroad while developing leadership skills through conferences and community engagement work upon return. Kylin Smith, a senior emergency medicine major who studied abroad in India as part of this program, said: “The community engagement portion of the program … allowed me to implement leadership while connecting global and local contexts of health care.” Smith added: “I also hope people leave inspired to get involved in their own communities and recognize that leadership is a journey built through service, growth and learning.”
