Engaged Learning

Connecting SMU students with learning experiences through capstone-level research, service, internships, creative and entrepreneurial projects.

The Office of Engaged Learning (OEL) empowers undergraduate students to expand their learning beyond the classroom through experiential programs.

Our comprehensive offerings include funding, mentorship, coaching, and networking opportunities allowing students to showcase their work and connect with peers in their field. The Engaged Learning Fellowship (ELF), Undergraduate Research Assistantships (URA), Big iDeas, and Clinton Global Initiative University (CGIU) are among the programs offered by OEL. Additionally, we coordinate the Summer Research Intensive (SRI) and programming for the National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). OEL also coordinates the Mustang Mentors peer mentoring program and the Pathways to Business and Industry initiative. 

Inspiring, Engaging and Connecting Students

Take your learning to a higher level.

Get involved

  • Engaged Learning Fellows luncheon 2019

    Engaged Learning Fellowships

    Engaged Learning Fellowships (ELF) allow undergraduate students to design and pursue capstone-level projects in research, service, and creative activity.

    Make your mark

  • Big iDeas Madison McMahon pitching

    Big iDeas

    The Big iDeas program hosts pitch competitions and provides training and coaching for entrepreneurial projects. Undergraduate students of any major are welcome to participate.

    Think Big

  • Mustang Mentors

    We match incoming Mustangs with upper-division peer mentors who share their academic interests, hobbies, and goals for the future.

    Get connected

Make a gift to the Office of Engaged Learning

It costs approximately $2500 to fund a student project. Want to make a difference in a student's career?

Engaged Learning Fellows luncheon 2019
Give today

Upcoming events

  • Big iDeas: Pitch Practice

    Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 1:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Pitching in the Bg iDeas Pitch Competition or just wanting to refine your business pitch? Come and Practice Your Pitch for the Big Day!

  • Big iDeas Fall Pitch Competition

    Friday, November 13, 2026, 10:00am — Private Location (sign in to display) Join us for the Big iDeas 90-Second Pitch Contest, where SMU students bring their boldest, most innovative ideas to life—fast. In just a minute and a ...

  • Big iDeas: E-Launch Bootcamp

    Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 5:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) E-Launch Bootcamp sessions are designed for early stage entrepreneurs to move through the ideation phase and into further development of their...

  • Coaching Session: How to Get Published

    Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 2:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) How do you get your research published? Join this coaching session to learn where to look for opportunities and what to expect in the process.

More events

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