Experiential Learning

Entrepreneurship Connection

The Entrepreneurial Connection Club is a student-led organization whose mission is to encourage students to think and act like entrepreneurs. Students experience entrepreneurship beyond classroom study through first-hand experience, building start-up businesses, writing business plans, and implementing new ideas. Students work with existing businesses, providing consulting services and marketing strategies, as well as helping clients to reach college audiences. The club  brings in influential speakers, such as business owners, CEO’s, and successful entrepreneurs. Alumni also work with the students in their development of new entrepreneurial ventures and ideas. The club also participates in the annual Collegiate Entrepreneurship Organization conference, which will be held in Chicago, IL this year.

Exposure to entrepreneurship prepares students with leadership qualities, initiative, and self-starting strategies to help them succeed in career and life. By developing an entrepreneurial mindset, students secure a competitive edge. Whether students decide to work for a company or start their own company, they bring with them the creativity in instill change and the initiative to implement a valuable opportunity.

All majors are welcome- come and experience what it’s like to be a part of an organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, creativity, networking and idea development.

  • Presidents: Kristin Elzey, James Hirchak
  • Vice President of Special Events: David Toth
  • Vice President of Communication : Kip Fetchero
  • Vice President of Finance : Parker Pearson

Independent Studies

In an effort to find more opportunities for ESP students to apply entrepreneurship concepts, the Page Center faculty created the following practicum projects for the coming academic year. Each of these independent studies qualifies for one credit hour and involves 15 contact hours with the sponsoring instructor during the semester.

Independent Study 1:
Campus1Housing Board of Advisors

The Page Center has worked with C1H, which provides information and access to off-campus housing in Oxford and seven other college markets, to create an independent study in which 6-8 students will serve as the Board of Advisors for C1H. Through this independent study, ESP students will:

  • Review company performance and provide feedback to the management team.
  • Make recommendations related to new products, new markets and marketing strategies.
  • Provide guidance on implementation strategies.
  • Periodically review company financials and make recommendations to maximize revenues and minimize costs.
  • Provide the C1H management team with options for short and long-term growth opportunities.
  • Review HR policies and procedures (e.g., recruitment, training) and make recommendations.

Independent Study 2:
Page Center Venture Fund Advisory Board

The Page Center has created a venture fund that can be used to support business enterprises. Through this independent study project, the Center will create a student advisory board to:

  • Establish policies for the fund (e.g., eligible use of funds).
  • Develop the investment process of the fund.
  • Write the standard term sheet to be used in investing.
  • Market the venture fund to Miami students and recent alumni.
  • Conduct due diligence on requests for funding and make recommendations to the Page Center faculty.

Voluntary Field Experience

In addition, mentor opportunities and internships in growth-oriented entrepreneurial firms will be made available to students within the minor. Contact the Page Center to apply for an internship.