Kansas State University’s Rise Up Scholars Program has expanded to include 94 students from both the College of Business Administration and the College of Arts and Sciences. Originally launched in the business college under the leadership of assistant dean Olivia Law-DelRosso, the program now welcomes students from the College of Arts and Sciences, led by assistant dean Kimathi Choma.

The Rise Up Scholars Program provides students with success coaching, accountability measures, corporate trips, mentorship, and inclusive leadership training. Scholars benefit from coaching seminars on professional communication, organizational culture, and resilience. Freshmen begin with peer mentors who introduce campus resources, teach effective study habits, and support academic accountability.

In their sophomore year, students in the program complete a “mini” internship for early career exposure, work with executive mentors on career goals, and participate in business tours. Juniors and seniors receive career coaching, practice mock interviews, and refine their resumes in preparation for internships and job applications.

In their senior year, scholars complete impact projects, focusing on initiatives like supporting first-generation college-bound students, providing resources for underrepresented finance students, and raising autism awareness.

This comprehensive program has led to outstanding career outcomes, with all fully engaged scholars securing internships and full-time offers within three months of graduation.

Last summer, Rise Up Scholars interned or began careers at organizations including Barkley, ConocoPhillips, Deloitte, EY, Koch, and the Boys and Girls Club of America.