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.

About Braven

Braven is a non-profit organization that empowers first-generation college students, students from low-income backgrounds, and students of color with the skills, networks, experience, and confidence necessary to land a strong job or internship. Watch this video to learn more.

Jamilah's Braven Story from Braven on Vimeo.

Meet Crystal. from Braven on Vimeo.

Back to top