Immersive student experiences strengthen skills, local communities

KU School of Business co-curricular programs, classes give students opportunities to solve real-world problems

Student develop skills through various programs at the KU School of Business like Jayhawk Consulting or The Catalyst.

The KU School of Business delivers a high-quality education through expert faculty, applied learning and immersive classroom experiences. Through these resources, students develop skills and work in programs and real-world situations that give them the expertise to tackle big ideas. Students apply their knowledge firsthand in ways that support and build communities through classroom experiences and co-curricular programs.

The classroom experience at KU is highly interactive, incorporating activities that challenge students to think critically and develop strategic solutions. Experiential learning is embedded into KU’s education, offering students opportunities through internships, study abroad programs and industry networking events.

Jayhawk Consulting

Jayhawk Consulting allows students to learn and gain experience through a staff-and-faculty-overseen team of degree-seeking KU students. Students work part time as university employees to serve local businesses and regional community organizations. Each semester, these students act as advisors and consultants for businesses within Lawrence and the region. They collaborate with real-world clients to assess projects and deliverables and provide solutions.

The Catalyst

The Catalyst encourages students to work on their ideas through mentoring. Students can work on their business ideas and ventures while receiving industry resources and mentorship. Students get assistance in all phases of venture development and learn and test in a constructive and productive environment. With three stages, students are hired to work and develop their idea and can serve as an entrepreneurial guide for other students in the later stage.

Students can build their ventures or business ideas through programs like The Catalyst.

RedTire

Redefine Your Retirement, or RedTire, plays an important role by connecting retiring business owners with aspiring entrepreneurs. RedTire helps match sellers and buyers in transactions, preserving the economic well-being of communities throughout the Midwest and beyond. As a KU School of Business entrepreneurship co-curricular program, RedTire also offers experiential, hands-on learning opportunities to KU students who are hired to help with the assessment and valuation processes.

Students in BUS 810/812 work with small business throughout the state to help with various business needs.

BUS 810/812 Kansas Small Business Projects

The BUS 810/812 Kansas Small Business Projects course provides students with experiential learning. Students in this capstone class of the full-time MBA curriculum work with small business owners, managers and aspiring entrepreneurs on a variety of business needs and challenges. Past projects range from helping sell a business, helping a business owner file for a research grant and helping companies with marketing, accounting or human resource tools.

Through the school’s dedication research, service-learning classroom experiences and experiential learning, students leave prepared as future business leaders to make meaningful contributions in various industries.

By Grace Ludes