What are MEP informational sessions?
MEP Informational Sessions are currently offered via video conference call, typically over Zoom. If your information session is scheduled through Zoom, log in 10 minutes early to make sure that you arrive at the meeting on time. You will be in the waiting room until the moderator lets you in. There will be a small number of candidates who are young professionals and college students from across the country, as well as alumni and professionals from the mentorship team. The guest speaker will be presenting a high-level overview of what a student can expect to gain from the Mentorship on Entrepreneurship Program, if selected. This session will be interactive, so expect to participate. Please make sure your audio, video, and lighting are set up professionally. See professional video call etiquette requirements below.
What is the Video Call/Zoom Etiquette?
- DRESS CODE: Professional dress code required. Details in the next section.
- LOG-IN: Log into the Zoom meeting 10-15 minutes early to prevent last minute technical difficulties. You will be automatically put in the waiting room until the moderator grants you access to the session. Mute yourself upon arriving. Login details will be provided by your host prior to start time.
- VIDEO BACKGROUND: Make sure that you have an appropriate and professional video background. If necessary, choose a blank wall, blurred or virtual background to avoid distractions during the meeting.
- LIGHTING: Provide appropriate lighting in the room and to illuminate your video frame. Dark lighting is unprofessional.
- MOBILE OPTION: If you are logging in with your phone, make sure that it is properly mounted, to avoid distracting camera movement.
- AUDIO: Keep your microphone muted if you are not speaking.
What is the dress code?
BUSINESS CASUAL ATTIRE – The dress code is similar to most job interviews. Candidates should arrive at in-person meetings AND virtual interviews dressed professionally. The dress code is business casual: For men: button-down shirts, suit jackets, with ties optional. For women: it is recommended to wear a blazer or equivalent.
What can I expect from this program?
1. PROFESSIONAL NETWORKING – One of the biggest benefits that students take away is the ability to have access to a professional network of people. We have all heard that it’s not what you know, but who you know.
2. REAL WORLD BUSINESS EXPERIENCE – Another benefit that comes with being a part of this program is obtaining direct business experience from people who have already succeeded in the business arena for decades. Students get to work a handful of hours a week alongside business professionals/owners and earn an income, if they choose to do so. Unlike other entrepreneurship classes that lack marketplace application, students will have an opportunity for direct business experience with high-level professionals while earning an income if desired, through the semester.
3. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH – The mentorship on entrepreneurship program puts significant emphasis on personal growth. Every student is provided a reading list of business books focused on key principles on personal growth, leadership skills, time management, etc.
Is a business degree required to qualify for this program?
No. Young professionals and students of all majors are currently enrolled in the program and they can benefit from learning the principles taught through this program which can apply to their professional careers, even if they choose not to go into business.
What is the weekly time commitment for this program?
Each student has a different strategy to ensure the program complements the student curriculum without creating conflict. The average student can succeed in the program on an average of 4 hours a week. The student can pick his or her own hours and operate 100% in a virtual environment.
“A business is simply an idea that makes people’s lives better.” – Richard Branson
Can I apply to the program even though am not a current college student?
The entrepreneurship program is geared toward young professionals and college students, ranging from ages 18 -24 years old. Other programs are available for more senior-level professionals, and information can be provided upon request. This program works with students who have the desire to learn the professional and business skills needed in entrepreneurship, that are only learned through direct business experience.
Is the MEP affiliated with my college/university?
It is upon the discretion of the university. At some universities, the program is promoted at the Career Center. At most universities, the mentorship on entrepreneurship program works through liaisons who are current students or alumni of the schools.
Do I have to pay for this program?
The mentorship program is complimentary and based on availability. The student does not have to pay for the time and counsel of the business mentors they would work with.
Any materials that are recommended to the students for their own personal and professional growth such as books, magazines, audios, etc can be purchased by the students from any source they desire (i.e. online, bookstores) and are not a requirement.
Can I make money with this program?
Yes, students in the mentorship program will have the option to work alongside professionals to earn an income of their own if they choose, while learning from industry professionals.
Is the Mentorship on Entrepreneurship Program based on sales?
No, this is not a sales program. While every industry and business sells a product or service, in the entrepreneurship program, sales are not the focus. This program has a much larger scope, encompassing accounting and budgeting principles, marketing, consulting, customer service, training, using and developing business tools, understanding business trends, people skills, leadership, etc.
Is this a recruiting program?
No, there are no recruiting fees associated with this program.
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