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

  • Pathways to Business and Industry Recruiter and student shaking hands at a company booth

    Pathways to Business and Industry

    You can find success in business without a business degree. At SMU, there are majors housed in all five of the undergraduate schools including Meadows School of the Arts, Lyle School of Engineering, Cox School of Business, Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, and Simmons School of Education and Human Development, as well as business-focused clubs and organizations, that provide the foundation for a business or industry career.

    Forge your path

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

  • PBI Fall 2025 Welcome Social

    Thursday, August 28, 2025, 2:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) This event is a great opportunity for first-year, second-year, and transfer students to connect with peers, meet faculty and staff who support PBI,...

  • Doughnuts in the Den

    Tuesday, September 02, 2025, 10:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) You survived your first week of classes! Come by the den and grab a doughnut to celebrate. You're welcome to come and go, or stay for a chat for...

More events

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Ryland Adzich with her big check from Big iDeas

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Big iDeas winner Ryland Adzich ('28) is transforming everyday spaces like laundromats into literacy hubs to promote reading in underserved communities.

 

 

Read More about Ryland and Her Social Impact Project

Research and Innovation Week March 31-April 4, 2025 promotional image

Research and Innovation Week

Celebrate undergraduate researchers' achievements at our poster session on April 1, 2025!

Details about the session

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