Student Engagement

Students immerse themselves in the art of lei po'o making, weaving together tradition and creativity.
Students visit the Northwest Seaport Alliance at the Port of Tacoma, learning how this vital hub connects Tacoma to the global economy and drives nearly $3 billion in economic activity.
NextGen students had an inspiring day at the 2025 Huskies on the Hill, engaging with Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson and legislators to discuss key issues affecting University of Washington students.

At the Institute for Innovation and Global Engagement (IIGE), we believe that student engagement is key to a transformative educational experience. Our Student Engagement Program (SEP) offers a variety of opportunities designed to enhance classroom learning through real-world experiences and professional development.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Our SEP provides students with hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. These include:

  • Field Trips and Site Visits: Students visit globally-connected companies and organizations to understand the complexities of decision-making, entrepreneurship, and innovation. These visits help students develop the flexibility, adaptability, and lateral thinking needed to succeed in an interdependent world. By meeting with executives and professionals, students can explore career options, develop professional contacts, and make critical connections between coursework and careers.
  • Community Engagement: Students engage with the local community through various projects and initiatives, fostering a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement. We help students engage with their communities by connecting the local to the global, ensuring they understand the broader impact of their actions.
  • Internships: Our program connects students with internships that provide valuable work experience and professional growth.
  • Graduate School Exploration: We offer resources and support for students considering graduate school, helping them explore opportunities and options.
  • Academic Conferences: Our students attend national and regional academic conferences, presenting their research and networking with scholars and professionals in their fields.
  • Study and Research Abroad: Students have the opportunity to study and conduct research abroad, gaining global perspectives and enhancing their academic experience.
  • Lectures and Workshops: Students attend various lectures and workshops, both online and in person, from organizations and universities, broadening their knowledge and skills.

Signature Programs

Achievements and Recognition

Our students' dedication and hard work have been recognized through prestigious awards and fellowships. Here are some examples of what IIGE students have become:

  • Newman Civic Fellows
  • Charles B. Rangel Fellows
  • Husky 100 recipients
  • Washington Campus Coalition for the Public Good Student Civic Leadership Award recipients  

Quarterly Activities

Site visits and other SEP activities are arranged and announced on a quarterly basis. These activities provide ongoing opportunities for students to engage with the professional world and enhance their educational journey.