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IU’s College of Arts and Sciences has launched the Pillars Undergraduate Experience, a new undergraduate program designed to help students gain skills and real-world experience in their respective fields.  

IU created the initiative after national criticism of higher education not properly preparing undergraduates for success post-graduation. 

The program highlights four key pillars: research, career readiness, intentional life design, and immersive learning. 

The Pillars Experience unofficially started in 2015 when IU established the Walter career center. The program was developed by consulting with college students, faculty, alumni and employers. 

The Pillars Undergraduate Experience reflects IU’s 2030 plan that focuses on student success and opportunity. 

Read More: IU 2030 Strategic Plan brings new areas of focus to university  

IU officials say this is the first initiative in the country that redefines liberal arts and sciences undergraduate education. It will launch this summer. 

The Pillars Undergraduate Experience focuses on ensuring undergraduate students graduate with skills that employers value. Specific courses will help students develop resume writing, interviewing, networking and job search strategies. 

This week on Noon Edition we’ll talk with the deans of IU’s College of Arts and Sciences to hear more about IU’s new initiative. 

Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to  news@indianapublicmedia.org.  

You can also record your questions and send them in through email.  

Guests: 

Rick Van Kooten, Executive Dean, Professor of Physics 

Joe Lovejoy, Assistant Dean, Executive Director, Walter Center for Career Achievement