Networks
Scott College of Business Networks Program
The Networks Program Scholarship
Founded in 2003, the Networks Program reflects over two decades of proven excellence and impact within the Scott College of Business. Designed for highly motivated students, this selective program supports scholars at Indiana State University through leadership development, mentorship, and professional networking, preparing them to succeed in their future careers. Scholarship information including application and requirement information can be found on the respective scholarship pages.
Mission Statement
The Scott College of Business Networks Program empowers students through scholarship, professional engagement, and a commitment to excellence. We build a culture rooted in connection, collaboration, and growth—where students embrace opportunity and strive for their best. Through resilience and a drive for lifelong learning, we develop adaptable leaders prepared to succeed and make a lasting impact. We grow together, support boldly, and give back to the community that empowers us.
Networks Core Values
N – Network Actively foster connections and relationships.
E – Excellence Give your best and strive for more.
T – Teamwork Support boldly, succeed collectively.
W – Willingness The drive to learn, adapt, and evolve.
O – Opportunity Cultivate pathways for your roots to grow.
R – Resilience Overcome and bounce back from challenges.
K – Knowledge Continuous lifelong learning.
S – Service Give back to the community that gives to us.
Program Opportunities
The Networks Program is a four-year professional development experience designed to prepare business students for success beyond the classroom. Scholars grow through progressive leadership opportunities, professional development, mentorship (professional & peer mentors), industry engagement, and community-building experiences. Scholars develop the skills, confidence, and connections needed to become adaptable and impactful business professionals.
From the first on campus through graduation, each experience is intentionally designed to meet scholars where they are and help them take their next step professionally and personally.
Professional Development
Networks scholars have access to resources and experiences designed to support their individual career goals. Each scholar receives a $3,000 Professional Development Account (PDA) to use throughout their time in the program for approved career-enhancing opportunities.
PDA funds may support experiences such as professional conferences, study abroad, industry-related travel, professional memberships, specialized training, software, and other approved expenses. Scholars are encouraged to use these resources intentionally to explore their interests, build professional skills, and prepare for their future careers.
Beyond financial support, scholars receive guidance from Networks mentors, alumni, faculty, staff, and industry professionals as they navigate their academic and professional development.
Student Leadership Experience
The Networks experience extends far beyond professional development. At the heart of the program is a community of students who learn, grow, and experience college together. Scholars have a built-in network of peers who understand the challenges and opportunities of college life, providing support both inside and outside of the classroom.
Through classes, study groups, team projects, social events, and shared experiences, Networks scholars build meaningful relationships and become part of a community that extends beyond the program. Whether it is finding a study partner, getting advice from an upperclassman, navigating a difficult class, getting involved on campus, or simply having people to celebrate with, scholars have a built-in network of support throughout their college experience.
Networks also provides opportunities to build leadership, gain hands-on experience, and become actively involved in the program through project teams, recruitment, leadership roles, and other initiatives. These experiences allow scholars to connect with students across class years, develop lasting friendships, and create relationships that continue well beyond their time in Networks and at Indiana State University.
The relationships built through Networks often extend well beyond the program and graduation. Scholars develop friendships, professional connections, and mentorships that continue throughout their lives and careers. Networks is more than a professional development program—it is a community that grows with you, supports you, and stays with you long after your time at Indiana State.
Networking and Mentorship
Relationships are at the heart of Networks.
Scholars build connections with classmates, upperclassmen, alumni, faculty and staff, community leaders, and industry professionals. These relationships provide students with opportunities to learn from different perspectives, ask questions, explore career paths, and build a professional network that extends far beyond their time at Indiana State University.
Networks also provides structured mentorship opportunities. Senior and freshman scholars are paired to encourage connection, accountability and peer support. Junior and sophomore scholars may be paired with professional mentors to discuss career development and the transition from college to the workforce.
Networks scholars also have the privilege of attending exclusive events that provide opportunities to network with industry professionals, alumni, and fellow scholars. These experiences allow students to build meaningful connections, gain professional insight, and engage with opportunities beyond the classroom.
Weekly Professional Development Seminars
Weekly seminars give scholars consistent opportunities to learn from professionals, alumni, faculty, and one another.
Sessions are designed around the developmental needs of each class year and cover topics such as leadership, communication, self-awareness, financial literacy, workplace professionalism, career preparation, and life after graduation.
Rather than simply learning about professional development, scholars have opportunities to practice these skills through discussion, activities, reflection, and hands-on experiences.
Industry Visits & Professional Events
Networks scholars experience business beyond the classroom through industry visits, professional events, and opportunities to engage directly with organizations and professionals.
Recent experiences have included visits to Salesforce, MJ Companies, LIDS, and IU Health, as well as participation in the 2025 Rally Conference. These experiences allow scholars to see organizations in action, learn about different industries and career paths, and build meaningful professional connections.
Signature Events
Networks signature events create opportunities for scholars to learn, reflect, connect, and grow together.
Events such as the Setback Showcase, Freshman Year 101, and Networks Lunch & Learn bring scholars together for honest conversations, shared experiences, professional development, and peer-to-peer learning. These experiences help build resilience, encourage reflection, and strengthen the Networks community.
Create Community
Networks is more than a professional development program—it is a community.
Through team-building activities, community engagement, celebrations, and shared experiences, scholars develop relationships that extend beyond the classroom. Team Building coordinates experiences throughout the year designed to encourage collaboration, school spirit, and relationship-building among scholars.
Our goal is to create a culture where scholars feel connected, supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow. Together, we build a community rooted in authenticity, care, collaboration, and shared growth.
A Four-Year Experience
Networks is intentionally designed to grow with each scholar.
Freshmen focus on establishing a strong professional foundation through resume development, interviewing, LinkedIn, communication, time management, and campus involvement.
Sophomores focus on self-awareness, personal values, personality, conflict management, and understanding how they work with others.
Juniors build financial literacy and professional confidence while preparing for the transition from college to the workforce.
Seniors focus on life after graduation, including professional development, establishing routines, managing stress, staying connected and involved, and developing a plan for life beyond college.
Each year builds upon the last, allowing scholars to progressively develop the knowledge, skills, relationships, and confidence they need to succeed.
Stay Connected to Networks
Graduating from Indiana State University doesn’t mean graduating from Networks. Alumni are an important part of the Networks community and are encouraged to stay connected, build relationships with current scholars, and continue growing their professional network.
There are many ways for alumni to reconnect with Networks, including attending Networks events, speaking with current scholars, participating in alumni panels, mentoring students, sharing career experiences, and connecting with fellow Networks alumni. These opportunities allow alumni to give back while continuing to benefit from the relationships and community they built through the program.
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Alumni Opportunities
Alumni can also stay involved by:
- Speaking at a Networks seminar or event
- Participating in an alumni panel
- Serving as a professional mentor
- Hosting or participating in an industry visit
- Supporting student recruitment
- Attending Networks events
- Connecting with current scholars within their industry
- Sharing career advice and professional experiences
- Connecting with other Networks alumni
No matter how alumni choose to stay involved, their continued connection helps ensure that the Networks community remains a lifelong network of support, mentorship, and opportunity.