Applied Learning Stories

Receiving applied learning funds has allowed Grace Ryan, a junior music education and musical theater major, to act as the Company Manager for the Wichita State Performing Arts Company (WUPAC). Through this organization, university students across all majors in the School of Performing Arts bring workshops in voice, movement, and acting to schools local to Wichita.

Chloe Swenson graduated this past May with her BA in social work. Through her applied learning experience, Chloe works as a practicum student at the Wichita Children's Home with Kidzcope. The Wichita Children’s Home provides support to almost 1,700 children each year through comprehensive services and trauma-responsive care. This includes Kidzcope, whose focus is grief services.

Elyssa Kreutzer’s applied learning experiences have allowed her to build a strong foundation in communications, marketing and event support while completing her business degree at Wichita State University. Kreutzer, a senior marketing communications student at the Barton School of Business, has gained professional experience through Wichita State’s Technology Industry Engagement Group and the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR).

Mary Elliott is pursuing degrees in audio production and guitar at Wichita State University. As a recording studio technician at Shocker Studios, she puts skills from both fields to work while helping other students create.

Briana Rodriguez graduated from Wichita State University in May 2026 with bachelor’s degrees in biological sciences and Spanish. During her final spring semester, Rodriguez completed her Spanish practicum through two applied learning experiences with Kansas Children’s Service League and Our Daily Bread Food Pantry. In both roles, she served as a Spanish interpreter, helping families access important services and resources while strengthening her communication skills in real-world settings.

Wichita State University senior Reese Byers is gaining hands-on teaching experience as a mentor with Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras. The program brings orchestral music to young musicians throughout south-central Kansas while helping them develop their skills and appreciation for music.

A junior in health management, Khushi Choudhary, is currently working as a student assistant at the Kansas Small Business Development Center (KSBDC) at Wichita State University. The KSBDC provides support to help Wichita’s small business leaders reach their goals and drive economic growth.

Colton Farmer is currently a second-year student earning a bachelor’s degree in performing arts–acting. Through his applied learning experience, Colton is currently a member of the Wichita State Preforming Arts Company (WUPAC).