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Building Stronger Foresters
We believe that there is no better way to learn than by putting your theoretical knowledge to practical purpose. That’s why the Friesen Center for Service and Experiential Learning exists: to help develop students both personally and professionally so that they are best equipped as Christ-centered servant leaders. We provide students with the opportunity to put their knowledge into practice through internships, practicums, and volunteer work. Students get the best of both worlds, gaining practical experience while glorifying God through service.
The Friesen Center was founded in 1992 as the Joe Mertz Center and has since become an integral part of campus life. It was renamed in May of 2013 in honor of Dr. Norris Friesen’s lifelong commitment to serving others.
Service
What better way to interact with a community than by faithfully serving others? Through service, students gain valuable experience meeting the specific needs of a community in tangible ways, developing soft skills in leadership and collaboration in diverse situations.
- Cultural Experiences in relation to a student’s field of study
- Volunteer Opportunities in the Community and on Campus
- Service-Emphasis Week
- Home of the Friesen Center Student Leadership Team
Experiential Learning While Serving Others
Part of what sets Huntington University apart is our commitment to ensuring that students graduate with practical experience in their degree field as well as opportunities to serve others. In 2023 the Friesen Center partnered with CSI Ministries to combine service with career interests. The result was a weeklong experience in Jamaica where students put the skills they have learned at HU to work in the Jamaican culture. In addition, the team took on a large service project to help the 4-H building shine inside and out with freshly painted walls. Students will be able to experience this unique opportunity again in Spring 2025.
Career Development Opportunities
Now the Friesen Center includes not only service activities but also career development opportunities through experiential learning. The Friesen Center works with students in the following career focused areas:
- Internships, Practicum, and Job Shadowing
- Resume Critiques and Coaching
- Specialized Workshops
- Interview Coaching and Classroom Instruction
- Career Closet (Students are welcome to shop for free for career appropriate attire)
- Networking opportunities (College to Career Mini Conference, networking events, Agriscience and Business Career Fair, visiting employers events, and mock interviews with area employers)
