With the start of this academic year, the Ursinus student body has been flooded with APEX-related news, activities, and materials. Yet, many students are confused by what APEX actually is. From classes, to events, to merchandise at the Spirit Shop, everything seems to have been labelled APEX. Even the Suitable app has APEX in the name. But all of this makes it more difficult to define APEX as one concrete thing.
After speaking with Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies, Dr. Rebecca Lyczak, and Associate Dean of Experiential Learning, Dr. Johannes Karreth, it became a lot easier to narrow down the basics of APEX. Asked how they would describe APEX in one sentence, they said it “provides scaffolded, experiential learning and career exploration across all four years such that students gain confidence while developing career-relevant competencies.” This is exciting for younger students, and it provides a variety of opportunities for resume and CV building. But it invites questions about the upperclassmen who won’t have the same experiences while still being a student here. Karreth responded to this idea by explaining that they hoped to see juniors and seniors in leadership positions, providing opportunities without the commitment requirements.
While students hear a lot about APEX programs like Experiential Learning Week and Go Global, many of us still have a lot of questions about what we should be excited about looking forward to beyond these two weeks. Both Lyczak and Karreth spoke highly about the new and improved centers and hubs: the Parlee Center for Science and the Common Good, the Sport and Humanity Hub, the Hub for Civic and Global Leadership, and Center for Humanities in Action. Lyczak and Karreth discussed the specific opportunities each hub will offer, highlighting scientific communication training, creation of a sports podcast, policy proposals to the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, and grant writing for the arts programs here on campus. These chances to expand the student experience will allow for a more well-rounded and career-focused college experience here at Ursinus. Although APEX can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming, the opportunities it provides to each and every student could be the factor that tips the scale to getting that job, promotion, or acceptance to grad school.
