Braven at NIU

NIU's Career Services is partnering with Braven, a non-profit organization that empowers college students with the skills, networks, experience and confidence to land a strong job or internship. Students who participate in the Braven program are outpacing their peers in attaining a strong job out of college.

Students can take UNIV 301: Braven Leadership and Career Accelerator, a three-credit elective course to help you jumpstart your career. The course is unique in that it is taught by Leadership Coaches who are currently working in a variety of industries. As mentors, they will provide you with valuable feedback and insights into how you can prepare for your future. 

Other benefits of the course include:

• New partnership.
  • We understand the importance of mentoring and career preparation. We are one of only six schools in the nation to offer this Braven course and mentorship opportunity.
• Small class size.
  • You'll be on a team with 5-8 other Huskies from a variety of majors. This allows you to connect with and form connections outside your academic area.
• Completely online and once-a-week. 
  • You'll meet with your mentor and teammates once a week online.
• Course credit at no additional cost.
  • You'll earn three credit hours toward graduation.
  • NIU caps per-semester charges at 12 credit hours so you can take more classes each term and graduate faster. Full-time students can take UNIV 301 at no additional cost.
• Mentorship and instruction from working professionals.
  • UNIV 301 is taught by professionals from top companies in Chicagoland.
• Career exploration.
  • If you know what you want to do you will discover how to get there.
  • If you are uncertain you will be able to explore what's possible.
• Career preparation.
  • You'll develop a portfolio, resume, LinkedIn profile and interview skills.
  • After course completion, you can access job boards and employment postings with Braven partners.
• Hands-on learning with leading companies. 
  • You'll work with teammates creating solutions for real companies and clients.
  • You can tap into a network of participating companies in Chicagoland and beyond.
• Long-lasting support.
  • Once you complete UNIV 301, you are paired with a mentor to support you through your academic and professional career planning.

Jamilah's Braven Story from Braven on Vimeo.

Meet Crystal. from Braven on Vimeo.