VILLANOVA IN THE VALLEY
The Villanova in The Valley student immersion program is a weeklong experience during winter break that exposes students to Silicon Valley and San Francisco, the center of global innovation and entrepreneurship. Throughout the week, students meet and learn from professionals, including numerous Villanova alumni, with a variety of skills and backgrounds who collaborate together to bring ideas from concept to reality.
Students prepare extensively for each visit by researching the people and organizations involved, prepping fellow cohort members and introducing the organization to the full group. Throughout the week, a counselor from Villanova’s Career Center coaches students on how to present themselves and maximize their contacts for career and internship opportunities.
Villanova in The Valley is led by the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Over a six day period, participants develop a deep understanding of the ecosystem through company visits, networking events and educational tours. Participants hear first-hand from investors, entrepreneurs, startups, large companies and innovators to learn what makes the ecosystem tick, the associated opportunities and challenges and how to start a career in Silicon Valley/San Francisco.
The experience provides students with connections to recent Villanova graduates working in Silicon Valley and unparalleled access to founders and C-level executives at industry-leading organizations.
Students in the past learned about various roles within the global technology and innovation sector, created relationships with their cohort and connected with alumni that often lead to internship and job opportunities.
A special highlight of the week—and an important networking opportunity for the students—is a reception that unites the Villanova San Francisco community of alumni, parents and friends for an evening with University and College leadership and includes a keynote from a prominent thought-leader.
Additional Information
Sample Agenda
Events will vary to include site visits, networking with Villanovans and presentations from individuals who make the Valley go. Potential site visits include Google, Facebook, PayPal and Handshake. Potential social programs include tourist stops and sightseeing in and around San Francisco.
Funding
You can apply for funding for this program within your application. For other professional development experiences such as conferences, underpaid/unpaid internships and study abroad, refer to our Student Experiences Funding webpage.
Lodging
Students who participate in Villanova immersion programs stay in a hotel on location and share rooms with each other. Rooms are assigned to students and follow university housing policies and guidance. However, it is central to our mission to make sure we are as inclusive as possible to all members of the Villanova community. If you need a hotel accommodation, please do not hesitate to reach out to discuss your needs and potential possibilities.
What to Wear
We encourage students to wear business professional clothing. If you need some options, make an appointment at the Wildcat Wardrobe.
How to Prepare
Attend the information sessions which will be posted on Handshake and visit the Career Center along with the professional development offices in your school to build your resume, LinkedIn and elevator pitches.