Encouraging Student Entrepreneurship Through the Big Idea Center’s ChangeMaker Series

The University of Pittsburgh’s Big Idea Center has recently launched the ChangeMaker Series, an initiative aimed at fostering student entrepreneurship and innovation. Rhonda Schuldt, the director of the Big Idea Center, has emphasized the importance of engaging a wider range of students at Pitt and addressing gaps in their existing programming.

Schuldt explained that the ChangeMaker Series, consisting of five sessions, seeks to provide an opportunity for students from diverse disciplines and academic levels to explore entrepreneurship and innovation. The sessions will feature guest speakers from various fields and cover key disciplines, concepts, frameworks, and tools of entrepreneurship and innovation.

This program deviates from the traditional competition-based model the Big Idea Center has been known for. Schuldt highlighted that not all students are interested in startup competitions, and the ChangeMaker Series will cater to those who are curious about entrepreneurship but may not have a specific idea to pursue or wish to start a business.

Furthermore, the program aims to equip students with entrepreneurial skills applicable in various aspects of their personal and professional lives, regardless of their career pursuits. Jessica Malandro, the manager for student programs and operations at the BIC, emphasized the versatility and relevance of entrepreneurial skills in a corporate setting, for creating a startup, or even in everyday life.

Malandro also revealed plans for the establishment of a ChangeMaker Scholars Program, an extension of the ChangeMaker Series. This initiative will provide a platform for students to further develop their skills and insights and an opportunity for continued involvement and growth.

It is essential to note that student insights and involvement have been pivotal in shaping the development of both the ChangeMaker Series and the envisioned ChangeMaker Scholars Program, reflecting the commitment of the Big Idea Center to create a program built by and for students.

Joanna Sutton, an entrepreneur in residence at the Big Idea Center, echoed the excitement about the potential impact of the ChangeMaker Series on students. She emphasized the importance of developing the right mindset and skills required to bring about effective and sustainable change, regardless of starting a business.

Enrollment for the ChangeMaker Series is open until February 1, with the first session scheduled for February 8. Participants must attend all five sessions, as the program is designed to be cumulative.

Looking forward, Schuldt expressed her hopes for the ChangeMaker Series to expand students’ perspectives and enhance their academic experience, both at Pitt and beyond.

The introduction of the ChangeMaker Series reflects the proactive efforts of the Big Idea Center to foster an environment of inclusive and accessible innovation and entrepreneurship for all students, regardless of their academic background or career aspirations. As the program gains momentum, it is likely to play a pivotal role in shaping the future generation of changemakers and problem solvers.