Student Experience Spotlight | Sarah Howell
Experiential learning at Campbell University integrates hands-on, practical experiences with academic coursework to provide students with a well-rounded education.
This approach includes internships, service learning, research projects, and fieldwork, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
By engaging in these activities, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional skills that prepare them for their future careers.
Meet Sarah Howell
Major: Biology Pre-Physical Therapy
Experience: Ecology and Culture in Hawaii
Location: Hawaii and Kauai
How did you find out about this experience?
As a part of the honors program, one of the requirements is to study abroad, so I always knew about the various faculty led study abroad programs. Being a biology student and taking classes with Dr. Havran is what led me to choose this program.
How has your time at Campbell prepared you for this experience?
Campbell’s interdisciplinary approach to education helped prepare me for this experience.
While in Hawaii, I learned about so much more than Hawaiian ecology and culture, and I think my time at Campbell prepared me to be receptive of that.
What did you learn from your internship?
I learned about the many native plants and animals in Hawaii, what makes them different from other organisms, and how locals are trying to preserve them. Additionally, I learned how the different people groups living in Hawaii and their respective customs come together to define Hawaiian culture.
How did you grow during this experience?
As I am working on my PT school applications, I am thankful that this opportunity exposed me to other cultures unlike the ones I’m used to in NC. The ability to relate to and understand different cultures will help me be a better physical therapist as I enter my professional career.
If students were to pursue a similar opportunity, what advice would you give them?
Say yes and be spontaneous. Be open to try new things while you’re doing a study abroad program.