A college’s measure of success extends beyond academic performance alone. Menlo College recognizes the significance of motivating students to foster their personal growth. The College’s immersion programs enhance students’ creativity and broaden their perspectives, while diminishing prejudice. By focusing on expanding worldviews, Menlo College aims to empower students to thrive.
Chief Academic Officer, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Dean of the School of Business Mouwafac Sidaoui led the third cohort of Menlo College’s Academic Global Immersion (AGI) program this winter. Seventeen students took a trip to Abu Dhabi and Dubai in January 2023 and earned course credit. AGI exposes students to global companies and environs, with the vision of preparing them for future leadership roles. Students bridge between classroom learning and “the real-world” by engaging with global executives.
“I learned much about the local business culture, the corporate landscape and business trends affecting the developing economy. Through this valuable experience and the developed skillset, the AGI facilitates me to thrive efficiently in a global and cosmopolitan setting.” – Paul Breuer ‘25, wrote on LinkedIn.
Menlo College launched a new Silicon Valley Immersion (SVI) course this year with the purpose of preparing students for leadership in the tech world capital. Taught by Dean Sidaoui, SVI offered students the opportunity to learn from business practitioners and visit prominent companies in Silicon Valley. The course first ran in the Fall 2022 semester and included visits to Google, Zoom, Colliers, and Crowdz, and featured various industry guest speakers.
Menlo College also continued to build pathways for students to increase flexibility in their studies. Starting in the Fall of 2022, Menlo College and Centre d’Études Franco-Américain de Management (CEFAM) jointly introduced a short-term exchange program, designed for a semester or year of immersive study abroad, and the 3+1 dual-degree program, enabling students to earn diplomas from both CEFAM and Menlo College after four years.
Moreover, in Spring 2023, Menlo College commenced exchange and 2+2 transfer programs with Al Ain University (AAU) in the United Arab Emirates, opening up even more exciting opportunities for students. The short-term exchange program allows students to have their courses recognized at their home institution, while the 2+2 transfer program provides students from AAU with the opportunity to transfer to Menlo College and receive a diploma after four years.
These initiatives expand Menlo College’s global reach and empower students to have diverse educational experiences while broadening their cultural horizons.
Menlo College’s Career Connect Day on April 4, 2023 proved to be a resounding success as students gained valuable insights and forged connections for their future careers. The event, organized by the Office of Internships and Career Services, attracted more than 300 students and 13 alumni.
The morning breakout sessions featured expert panelists, including Menlo College alumni, who shared their experiences in leading fields like psychology, nonprofit organizations, sports, sustainability, and the use of the Meaningful Work Kit. The event also included a Career Fair, where students explored internships and full-time opportunities across various industries.
This year’s Career Connect Day featured two keynote speakers. Jeremy Schifeling, LinkedIn’s former Education leader and one of the founders of The Job Insiders, spoke in the morning session, emphasizing the power of personal branding and network connections. In the afternoon, Michael Watson, head of Global Customer Evangelism at Eightfold.ai, discussed navigating the job market in the era of artificial intelligence.
The Office of Internships and Career Services at Menlo College continues to play a vital role in helping students succeed. Initiatives such as Career Connect Day and the flagship student internship program have contributed to nearly 80 percent of 2022 Menlo College graduates finding employment or pursuing graduate programs within six months of graduation.
By offering unique opportunities for career exploration, practical knowledge, and networking, Menlo College equips its students with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in the job market and lead in business and beyond.
Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California. Menlo College’s location in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative geographical areas, has enabled the college to create a valuable market niche for its students locally — as well as globally. Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in an innovation economy.
