Through a collaborative effort among the Student Professional Development Center, Study USA, National Campus Programs, and Alumni Engagement, 51 students studying in New York City and Washington, D.C., explored graduate education, connected with alumni, and gained valuable insight into life after college.
This summer, the Student Professional Development Center partnered with Study USA, National Campus Programs and Alumni Engagement to create two immersive graduate school exploration experiences for students interning and studying in New York City and Washington, D.C. Together, the collaborative effort connected students with leading graduate institutions, alumni connections, and meaningful conversations about their futures.
Students and alumni in Washington, D.C., visited American University’s School of Public Affairs, where they learned about graduate education, careers in public service, and the many opportunities available through advanced study in law, business, and public and international service.

In New York City, students and alums were welcomed by Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business for an evening exploring graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including social service and the humanities. A highlight of both programs was the meaningful engagement with Elon alumni living and working in the city, who shared candid reflections about the transition from college to career, pursuing graduate education, and building fulfilling professional lives. Together, the university partners and alumni provided students with both practical information and authentic perspectives that encouraged them to imagine new possibilities for life after Elon.

The experiences reflect Elon’s commitment to preparing students for lives of purpose through intentional collaboration across campus. By bringing together the career expertise of the Student Professional Development Center, the immersive learning opportunities offered through Study USA and National Campus Programs, and the lifelong connections fostered by Alumni Engagement, students were able to explore graduate education while strengthening their professional networks and broadening their vision for the future.