This 5-year study of graduating seniors at Elon University ( n = 2,058) evaluates the impacts of experiential learning depth (amount of time commitment) and breadth (number of different types of experiences) on student outcomes. Data on study abroad, undergraduate research, internships, service, and leadership experiences were pulled from cocurricular transcripts and paired with responses to the National Survey of Student Engagement. Both depth and breadth were associated with acquiring a broad general education, writing clearly and effectively, contributing to the welfare of communities, relationships with faculty and administration, and desire to attend the same institution. Depth (but not breadth) was associated with higher order thinking (synthesis and application) in the senior year, as well as overall educational experience. Breadth (but not depth) was associated with working effectively with others and better relationships with other students. Overall, key learning outcomes desired for a college student are driven by both experiential learning depth and breadth.

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For nearly 100 years, American leadership, regardless of political affiliation, has recognized the vital importance of people-to-people international exchange programs in bolstering our nation’s economy, strengthening our national security, and improving America’s status in the world. In today’s interconnected world, where global challenges require global cooperation on solutions, the United States should not retreat from international engagement, but should rather double our efforts to build positive and mutually supportive connections with our neighbors. America must embrace its role in leading international peace and prosperity by facilitating meaningful, safe, educational exchange in all directions – helping more Americans learn firsthand about other people and cultures and helping more foreign students come to America to experience for themselves the principles upon which our country was built - liberty, democracy, capitalism, and basic human freedom. America can and should leverage international education, exchange and public diplomacy programs to plant seeds of peace, regain the world’s trust, and return to our previous role as a respected leader in global affairs. Leading the effort to bring the world together helps America, Americans, and our vital allies.

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