Criteria

Client-connected projects are authentic problems which students solve in collaboration with professionals from industry, not-for-profit, or community-based organizations. 

Client-Connected Projects are MVA-level (Market Value Assets) experiences when they are…

• Sourced (at least sponsored) by the client
• Supplementary to students’ professional network
• Resume-worthy (meaningful)
• At least 24 hours of work, with at least 4 hours engaged with the client
• Jointly evaluated 

What should be considered in planning the content of the project? Who should lead?

Step 1: Evaluate Work

• What work is available?
• Is the work appropriate for student involvement?
• Which work optimizes student and organizational needs?
• Who would be most appropriate to serve as the primary client contact? 

Step 2: Set Appropriate Goals

• What would make this client-project experience a success for the employer?
• Which critical skills can be developed throughout this project?
• Self-directed learning
• Adaptive problem solving
• Project management
• Documenting problem-solving process
• Communicate and collaborate
• Create value for others
• Seek and use feedback 

Step 3: Set Project Expectations: Establish project parameters to help students understand the project and plan execution

• Key challenge/problem statement
• Student goals
• Engagement with SMEs
• Feedback and reflection cycle
• Documentation of approach
• Finished product 

Step 4: Create Timeline

• Establish key milestones for students
• Ideate back-up plans for any surprises 

Guide and Proposals

The Real-World Learning Guide to Client-Conjected Projects provides additional information. Please click here to access the guide.

Our team welcomes proposals for client-connected projects. Please reach out to a career pathways facilitator for more information.