UT San Antonio sets 75% experiential learning target for undergraduates

UT San Antonio has set a university-wide goal for 75% of its undergraduate students to graduate with at least one meaningful experiential learning experience. To reach this metric, the institution launched Rowdy Roadmap, a centralized program that tracks student participation in activities beyond traditional coursework.

The new platform replaces a system that previously limited tracking to classes with an experiential learning component. By using the Suitable app, the university can now measure engagement in co-curricular events, internships, and leadership roles. This shift allows the school to capture a wider range of activities that contribute to career readiness.

The launch follows the success of Career Compass, a professional development requirement developed by the Carlos Alvarez College of Business. That program required business students to earn points and digital badges by attending workshops, networking events, and internships. The university expanded this model to serve all majors, not just business students.

Tammy Wyatt, senior vice provost for student success, stated that the platform helps students document their full range of experiences. She noted that the tool allows students to reflect on their growth from workshops to leadership positions. Wyatt said this process helps them articulate their unique story as they prepare for life after graduation.

Students can now earn credentials and digital badges for nine core competencies. These competencies include communication, leadership, teamwork, career development, critical thinking, digital agility, curiosity, and well-being. Participants can use their record of achievements to strengthen resumes, update LinkedIn profiles, and discuss their backgrounds during job interviews or graduate school applications.

The program also introduces points, challenges, and incentives throughout the academic year. Students gain points by attending educational workshops, professional development panels, and campus engagement events. This structure complements RowdyLink, the university’s existing platform for student engagement and event planning, providing a more complete picture of student progress.

Ashley Escobar, a 2025 graduate, was the first student to complete the predecessor program. She described how the experience taught her how to present herself in networking and interview settings. Shortly after graduation, Escobar was hired by UT San Antonio as an employee services associate. She is currently working toward an MBA at the university.

The university is now using the platform to ensure every undergraduate has access to tools for exploring opportunities. The system is designed to help students articulate their value to potential employers before they enter the workforce. The program is available to all current undergraduate students as part of the student success initiative.