The REAL Edge
Rhodes Experiential and Applied Learning
When you think of coming to Rhodes, don’t picture years of sitting in a classroom. To be sure, our world-class professors inspire engaging conversations in the classroom, but everything about our academics drives us toward exploration in Memphis and beyond.
The REAL Edge program enables you to soar to new heights while exploring new experiences. Here, you can go beyond study abroad and internships. At Rhodes, you can begin engaging in research initiatives in your first year on campus. We don't pressure you to choose your major right away; instead, we want you to find your own way and create your own path.
Undergraduate Research
Whether through independent study, honors research, directed inquiries, or as faculty research assistants, Rhodes students conduct leading-edge research and creative activity that produces original intellectual or creative contributions in a wide range of fields. They also have the opportunity to work with researchers at cutting-edge organizations such as St. Jude Children's Hospital and the UT Health Sciences Center.
Read about student experiences in the St. Jude Summer Plus Program
Internships and Fellowships
Nearly 75% of our students gain real-world experience in internships or fellowships, applying their classroom knowledge to areas such as business, finance, health care, education, and nonprofits. Our Career Services office has partnered with more than 100 organizations in Memphis for internships and Rhodes offers paid fellowships each year through such programs as the Mike Curb Institute for Music, the Lynne and Henry Turley Memphis Center, and the Rhodes Institute for Regional Studies.
Read more about experiential learning opportunities at Rhodes
Beyond the Quad
Almost 70% of our students study or work abroad or away during their time at Rhodes. We have nearly 800 approved international and domestic partners and also offer faculty-led Maymesters around the globe.
Service with a Purpose
Rhodes students contribute thousands of service hours to the city of Memphis each year through fellowships and programs such as Kinney, Bonner, and the Clarence Day Scholars.
First-Year Research
You don't have to know where you are going to begin your journey. Non-biology majors in the BIOL 105: Everyday Evolution: Genes, Diversity, and Society course had the chance to participate in hands-on scientific research involving migratory birds. Some never would have experienced this type of research at many big name colleges or universities. At Rhodes, they were able to explore a new way of thinking and tap into first-year research opportunities.
Biology professor Alix Matthews, a member of the Class of 2014, along with first-year student Alexandra Baroody (undeclared major) and seniors Ben Reynolds (English) and Soren Sijapati (international studies) recently took a trip to the Arkansas State Bird Observatory (ASBO) in Jonesboro, AR.
Fall migration has been underway for many migratory bird species, and students were able to observe the birds first-hand making their way to Central and South America.
A Place Like No Other
Rhodes is no ordinary college. Our combination of growth opportunities, a diverse and supportive community, and vibrant city backdrop give you an educational experience like no other.
Learn More and Connect With Us
Be sure to connect with us so we can answer any and all of your questions as you search for the right place for you.