Whether it's chemistry major Mallory van Dongen's research creating antibacterial surfaces or hotel and restaurant management major Sarah Pikul's internship at the world's most renowned luxury hotel in Lake Como, Italy, a keybenefit of the Niagara experience is students' ability to take what they have learned in the classroom and apply it in real-world settings. As a student atNiagara University, you'll have many opportunities to put your knowledge intoaction.

Undergraduate research. Starting freshman year, Niagara students can roll up their sleeves and work one-on-one with their professors on primary research studies. Many go on to present their findings at the annual Niagara University Undergraduate Research Conference, at state and regional research conferences, or at professional conferences in their fields of study.

Study abroad. Each year, more than 100 Niagara students pack their bags and spend a semester, January term, or summer session at one of the many international universities or centers that Niagara partners with for study abroad. NU faculty members join some of the trips to teach classes and

assist students with logistical needs. Any student may choose from more than 80 programs, including Argentina, Australia, Chile, England, France, Ireland, Mexico and Spain, and the university has also created major-specific programs in Italy (business and hospitality and tourism), the Netherlands and Thailand (education), and Taiwan and Japan (business). Learn more at www.niagara.edu/sap.

Hands-on training. Nothing beats real-life experience in your field of study. Some Niagara courses require an internship, and faculty members and career development counselors help match students with the employers that are best for them. Many internship and co-op experiences are even paid!

Someone who truly knows the value of internships is Niagara alumnus Gary Damon, who graduated in May 2007 with a degree in secondary education.  During his four years at Niagara, Gary completed internships in several inner-city public schools, where he could begin working toward his goal of becoming a school principal.  His internships were coordinated through Niagara's Learn & Serve office, which paired him with schools and teachers that matched both his personality and his career interests.

"My education at Niagara surpassed all my expectations," Gary says, noting that he was able to start teaching in a classroom his freshman year.  "I received a job offer senior year and started a full-time position teaching high school English four days after graduation.  I was elated."