Honors values learning opportunities that equip students beyond the classroom. One way this is achieved is Structured Mentoring Opportunities, classes offering students hands-on, experiential learning opportunities within a specific expertise.

An example of a Structured Mentoring Opportunity is the Honors Annual Report. Mentored by industry expert and Honors faculty Ashley Davies, a small team of students saw the creation of a professional university publication all the way from idea generation to print ready finishing. 

While traditional university coursework teaches students about something, the Annual Report team got to actually experience it. Students researched compelling stories, conducted interviews, and designed brand-compliant graphics.

English major Emma Pelto was among the students of the Annual Report Structured Mentoring Opportunity. “I love creative and academic writing,” Emma explained. “I wanted to be a part of the Honors Magazine to gain more experience with more professional and journalistic-style writing.” Emma’s number one takeaway is managing the countless details that are required to put a report together, developing her communication skills as she interacts with interviewees, faculty, and her team.