In addition to the Start Something LAS Academy, students have access to a multitude of support, resources, and hands-on experiences to develop your ideas and passions. Start Something LAS can help prepare you to take advantage of all the opportunities that are part of the innovation ecosystem at Iowa State!
Opportunities
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Pitching
Students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences can compete in various pitch competitions and challenges hosted by the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship, the Student Innovation Center, or engage in on and off campus opportunities to develop their pitching skills. Students in the Academy are asked to pitch on several occasions, encouraging them to dive deep and practice their public speaking skills.
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Networking
Students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences can get to know innovators, entrepreneurs, faculty and staff, and community members at various events hosted by Start Something LAS to develop their personal and professional networks. Events like Sharkuterie Connections allows students to engage with local entrepreneurs and judge their pitches, all while learning about different businesses and experiences. Students in the Academy can participate in socials and field trips, building strong connections within their peer cohorts.
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Ignite Innovation Showcase
Each spring, the Student Innovation Center hosts the Ignite Innovation Showcase, a week-long campus wide event that celebrates student-led innovation and creative thinking. Students across campus can come to the Student Innovation Center to view displays, exhibitions, presentations, panels and speakers, celebrations and awards, poster sessions, and explore what innovation looks like at Iowa State. First year Academy students participate in an open house style showcase where they present their ideas, engage with guests, and receive valuable feedback.
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Alumni Innovators
The Alumni Innovators program encourages students to think beyond the classroom and explore the possibilities in their chosen field. Start Something LAS partners with other LAS departments to create programs that connect students with alumni who have pursued paths in innovation or entrepreneurship. These connections help students expand their professional networks, see the wide range of career possibilities, and understand that they have the opportunity to shape their own journey. Read more about our most recent Alumni Innovators program with the Department of Music and Theatre.
Start Something LAS gave me the opportunity to be surrounded by inspiring innovators whose energy and ideas motivated me to keep moving forward with my own.