PULLMAN, Wash. Many students think that, when they graduate, they can either get a job or go to graduate school. But a unique Washington State University program is getting students to think about a different career path as an entrepreneur.
Students interested in applying for the Harold Frank Engineering Entrepreneurship program are invited to an informational meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24, in ETRL 101. To register, go to http://tiny.cc/qd22lw. Refreshments will be served. Program participants and Kevin Randolph, program executive director, will answer questions.
Each year, 12 students are selected to receive a $2,500 scholarship and participate in a year-long program on how to start and run a business.
For self-motivated students with an innovative mind, the program provides a unique opportunity to learn about entrepreneurship, says Lauren Eberle, a senior in chemical engineering and a Frank fellow.
“It provides a glimpse into the life of an entrepreneur,’’ she says. “As an engineer, I was always focused on math and science and largely unaware of the entrepreneurial world. Thanks to this program, I have gained exposure to businesses in the startup community and met with successful CEOs. This has not only opened a lot of doors, but I’m inspired to start something on my own.”
“It provides a glimpse into the life of an entrepreneur,’’ she says. “As an engineer, I was always focused on math and science and largely unaware of the entrepreneurial world. Thanks to this program, I have gained exposure to businesses in the startup community and met with successful CEOs. This has not only opened a lot of doors, but I’m inspired to start something on my own.”
The program, which got under way in 2005 with a $3 million gift from the late Harold Frank (‘48), invites junior level engineering and business students who are interested in technological entrepreneurship to learn about the tools they need to pursue their ideas.
The program includes participation in a three-week summer program. Students spend the first week in entrepreneurship “boot camp.” They learn a variety of important business skills, including small talk, common etiquette, elevator speeches and formal presentations.
The summer program also includes visits to Seattle and Silicon Valley startups and high technology incubators. They meet high-technology CEOs and visionaries from places like Google and Tesla Motors and are housed with successful Cougar entrepreneurs. Students also participate in paid summer internships.
During the school year, Frank fellows spend three semesters to fully develop their business ideas, beginning in January with a Technology Ventures course. Their work culminates with entrance in the WSU business plan competition and, perhaps, bringing their ideas to market.
For more information, go to www.cea.wsu.edu/entrepreneurship.