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Division of Academic and Student Affairs 
University Honors Program

High-impact experiences

University Honors students must complete a total of three high-impact experiences by the time they graduate. These are opportunities for students to engage in experiential learning outside the classroom in a way that directly aligns with their individual goals. This requirement also gives students the opportunity to reflect on how these experiences impact their learning in preparation for life after college such as graduate school or employment applications.

High-impact categories

  • Leadership
    • For example resident advisor, orientation leader, student government, village mentor, UHP ambassador, HON seminar ambassador, Village Fellow, etc.
  • Disciplinary breadth
    • Exhibiting and commitment to interdisciplinary learning by completing two majors or a major and minor from different colleges.
  • Select Explorations trips run by the UHP or another campus unit
    • For example, a fall or spring break trip with the UHP or an Alternative Spring Break trip hosted by Leadership and Civic Engagement.
  • Sustained Volunteer service
    • A minimum of 45 hours with the same organization or project over an academic year.
  • Sustained non-course based undergraduate research
    • A minimum of 45 hours with the same lab or project over an academic year.
  • Professional development
    • Developing skills that will prepare students for careers through internships, co-op experiences, and other career-related opportunities.
  • Participation in Arts NC State
    • For example performing in marching band, performing in a University Theatre play, serving a stage crew, being in a musical ensemble, or being on a dance crew.
  • Other experiences
    • Students may propose experiences not captured above by submitting a one-page proposal detailing the experience and the ways it aligns with their goals. The proposal should be submitted to the student’s UHP advisor for review in advance of the experience.

Those are just some examples. If you are doing something that you think will be transformative or greatly impact your education, contact your UHP advisor. Chances are it might count.

Required reflection

After completing each high-impact experience you must submit a request for credit and a short reflection paper. The paper should be in 12-point font, double-spaced, and then attached to the request for credit form. If you have questions about this form, please contact Sarah Beth May at seking2@ncsu.edu.