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Center for Entrepreneurial Studies

 

Frequently Asked Questions: StudentsPhoto of students during entrepreneurship seminar

Does the GSB offer a Certificate in Entrepreneurship?

No, a Certificate in Entrepreneurship is not offered. All students are encouraged to enroll in entrepreneurship courses as part of their broad education in general management and to take advantage of the opportunity to work with start-up companies in the local area. All entrepreneurship courses are electives so students can take as many (or as few) as they like.

How do I get involved in Experiential Projects with start-ups?

Many courses at the GSB require that students participate in group projects working with small companies. Students can view requests for Experiential Projects from entrepreneurs in a wide variety of industries for various types of business assistance.

What clubs does the GSB have that would help me learn about entrepreneurship?

The Entrepreneurship Club and the High Tech Club are two of the most popular student groups at the school. The Entrepreneurship Club hosts the very popular, annual Entrepreneurship Conference which is held in the winter. BASES (Business Association of Stanford Engineering Students) also offers a wide variety of programs.

Does the GSB have a business plan competition?

No, the GSB does not sponsor a business plan competition. However, students from all disciplines are invited to enter the Stanford Entrepreneur's Challenge, sponsored by BASES.

I'd like to work for a start-up during the summer, but I know they can't afford to pay me a full salary. What can I do?

Apply for a Entrepreneurial Summer Program (ESP) internship. The Center sponsors the ESP program, providing funds to selected first year students who work with start-ups for the summer. Check out the requirements in our section on ESP.

I'm looking for a job with a start-up. What should I do first?

GSB students may access postings on the GSB Job Board. Just go to MyGSB and login to My Career Dashboard. If you are in the market for a high-tech opportunity, BASES (Business Association of Stanford Engineering Students) provides job listings.

How many Stanford MBAs become entrepreneurs when they graduate?

About ten percent of the MBA 2000 graduating class founded their own companies immediately after graduating. Twenty-three percent of the class went to work for companies with fewer than 25 employees.

What types of resources are available for student use?

We offer space for students to meet, three computers, two databases, entrepreneurial books, research papers, course syllabi, cases, and event videos.

What types of workstations are available?

There are three workstations, with a PC and access to a printer, which can be used during normal business hours. The workstations are first-come, first-served. The Center is open 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday.

Is there a conference room for student use?

There is a small conference room with a speakerphone, TV, and VCR available for meetings with faculty, mentors, or classmates. Students can reserve the conference room through Public Folders in Outlook.

Do you have any other space available for gatherings?

The Center lobby may be used for larger gatherings, such as student club meetings. CES permission is required.

Is there a fax machine?

Students may use the Center fax machine to make free local calls.