At the CALS Pathways to Innovation and Leadership showcase in early December, students were recognized for their efforts to earn micro-credentials through hands-on workshops, experiential learning, and leadership opportunities.
During the showcase, three students reflected on their study abroad and study USA experiences with 4-minute presentations to an audience of faculty, staff, and students. A public presentation is one of the required components of earning the "CALS Innovation + Leadership: Global Impact" digital badge, a micro-credential that individuals earn by participating in a global experiential learning activity such as study abroad, study USA, and student exchange programs.
Nicollette Smith, senior in Biology, traveled to Merida, Mexico on a study abroad program with her community college. During the program, Nicollette stayed with a host family and realized that learning a second language would allow her to communicate and connect with more people. She became motivated to learn Spanish and decided to complete a minor in Spanish during her time at Iowa State University.
Alicia Gagnon-Williams, senior in Animal Ecology, participated in the study USA program "Exploring the Marine and Terrestrial Biodiversity of the U.S. Virgin Islands" in January 2025. While in the Caribbean, Alicia observed numerous negative environmental impacts as a result of tourism. She encouraged listeners to consider the impact of travel on local wildlife and think of ways to mitigate their environmental impact when traveling.
Alaina Gebel, junior in Agriculture and Life Sciences Education and Global Resource Systems, participated in a semester exchange program at University College Dublin. She highlighted the personal growth she experienced from living abroad for five months, networking with other students and faculty from around the world, and adapting to life in another country.
Since launching about a year and a half ago, the CALS Pathways to Innovation and Leadership Program has awarded more than 160 micro-credentials.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to consider how micro-credentials can provide additional opportunities for skill development, reflection, and communication for students participating in experiential learning programs (research, service-learning, internships, and other similar experiences).