This learning opportunity consists of a student engaging in activities that result in their learning that knowledge and professional skills critical to their career path. Stretchwork is defined as those learning opportunities which a person takes on their own to grow in their career field. Put another way, once you graduate there are no advisors or courses your employer conducts. You have to “stretch” yourself into new knowledge and skills.

There are two basic rationales for learning through stretchwork at MIIS. First, your career path may require skills and knowledge that are not readily available in formal courses at MIIS. Examples may include careers in public health and humanitarian assistance, where jobs are plentiful. Stretchwork might include taking online courses, working with a local organization (e.g., M and E) or taking workshops at the DLC. The second rationale is preparing for life-ling learning by starting it while you are at MIIS.