TechESP FAQ

 Women trying on VR headsets at Creativity City
Student makes pitch to crowd at Startup Weekend
 Students looking at computer screen during Startup Weekend
 Painting station at Creativity City in spring 2018
 Dr. Tim Holcomb talking to an entrepreneurship class

How long does the TechESP Fellowship program take to complete?
The program is designed to be completed in four years. However, upperclassman may be able to participate with prior progress towards the Emerging Technology and the Entrepreneurship degree requirements.

What makes this program different from merely enrolling in the ETBD major and the Entrepreneurship co-major?
Perhaps the principal distinction is found in co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities, many of which are guaranteed, or required, for TechESP Fellows and some of which are not available to other students. Additionally, Fellows progress through the program with a stable cohort of colleagues, which not only improves the quality of team activities but also may lead to enduring professional relationships.

The designation "Tech Entrepreneurship Fellow" on a resume may appeal to prospective employers.

Are there additional costs associated with this program?
Likely TechESP Fellows would incur additional costs associated for participation in co-curricular programs, but these would be the same costs incurred by any Miami University student participating in those programs. Financial aid may be available for these co-curricular experiences.

I'm an upperclassman. Can I still participate?
Upperclassmen are welcome to apply. However, you may not have enough semesters remaining to reap all of the benefits of the program.

I am an international student in the U.S. on a visa. Can I still participate?
Yes. There may be issues with respect to internships and other program requirements that should be cleared before enrolling in the program. In particular, international students need authorization for any off-campus work. Please meet with an International Student Advisor in the International Student and Scholar Services office before applying to the program, and refer to the International Student and Scholar Services web site for information.

Do I have to find my own internships? How does the internship interview process work?
The program coordinators and the sponsoring departments assist students in various ways towards finding internships. However, no student can by guaranteed an internship. Generally, students will apply for internships in consultation with staff from the Altman Summer Internship program and from the Digital Innovation program.

I have other questions.
Contact the program manager, Erin Brandyberry (erin.brandyberry@miamioh.edu), who will be happy to help you.