Experiential Network (XN) projects give Northeastern graduate students the opportunity to experiment in their respective fields by working with different sponsors on a wide array of projects with practical applicability outside the classroom in a real-world environment. Through execution of six-week virtual projects, students are able to apply what they’ve learned in class in a real-world context, gain valuable experience to enhance their resume, and build their professional networks.
Along with the XN project, students are either enrolled in the appropriate non-credit or credit-bearing course. Through these courses, students receive faculty direction, professional development, coaching and mentoring, and feedback to help ensure a satisfactory experience for our students and sponsors.
Eligibility
Students must be currently enrolled in a Northeastern graduate program with at least nine credits of completed coursework (for some programs, 12-16 completed credits are required). A GPA of 3.25 or higher is required. Students must submit a completed application for their desired program term.
International students are encouraged to apply! Students in F-1 or J-1 status must maintain all related eligibility requirements, including continuous eight-credit minimum, full-time enrollment (of which a minimum of four must be taken on the ground) during the entire academic term.
Submit an application to XN
You’ll be required to submit a resume, several short answers, and an introductory video. Contact Morgan Hughes, manager of experiential operations ([email protected]) with any questions.
Students may participate in XN up to three times over the course of their graduate degree program.
FAQ
What kinds of projects are available?
Projects are typically research-based and conclude with an actionable deliverable that provides the sponsoring company with necessary information to make a critical business decision. Examples of project work include:
- Development of a stakeholder engagement plan
- Creation of a marketing communication plan for a new product or service
- Evaluation of team efficiency and success
- Development of a strategy for identifying and pursuing grants
What kind of company could I work with?
XN students have worked with a variety of organizations, including startups, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), public institutions, state and local organizations and institutions, and many nonprofits including leading hospitals, charitable organizations, and educational institutions. Some sponsoring organizations XN has partnered with:
- Alliance of YMCAs Massachusetts
- Boston Children’s Hospital
- MGM Resorts
- Massachusetts State Police
- Gilbane Building Company
- City Year
Will I be paid for my project work?
No. As XN projects are considered academic work, students do not receive compensation.
Will I receive credit for my project work?
Maybe. Some academic programs allow XN projects to be completed for credit. Check with XN staff to see if you’re eligible.
I’m not enrolled in one of the participating degree programs. Can I still apply?
Absolutely! While we cannot guarantee that we’ll have an applicable project for all students, we encourage anyone who is interested and meets the application criteria to apply.
I am not located in the Boston area. Can I participate?
Yes! XN projects are completed remotely, typically by way of Skype, email, or phone. You are not expected to meet with your project sponsor in person or carry out project work on site.
I am already taking a full course load. Will I be able to handle an XN project?
You tell us. We encourage all students to carefully evaluate what a realistic schedule looks like for them prior to committing to an XN project. Students working on XN projects must be able to devote approximately five hours per week over a six-week period to project execution. Students are also expected to attend a weekly webinar and submit a few course deliverables (i.e. project plan).
Is this a group project?
No, project work is carried out independently.
I’m interested, but now is not a good time. When is the next XN program cycle?
As XN program cycles align with Northeastern’s College of Professional Studies academic calendar, we offer four program cycles (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer) per year.
More Questions?
See the student link below or contact Morgan Hughes by phone at 617.373.8704 or email [email protected].