The NEXT (Network Engage eXplore Together) Level is a program designed for first-generation students in their sophomore year:
NEXT Level connects students with local businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations that need fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. Over eight weeks, students work on a paid project while collaborating closely with a client partner who serves as both project sponsor and mentor. Through weekly meetings, students gain real-world experience, receive professional guidance, and see firsthand how their skills can create value beyond the classroom.
If you’re a first-generation* sophomore looking to gain real-world experience, build professional connections, and explore potential career paths, NEXT Level may be a great fit. NEXT Level is designed specifically for first-generation sophomores, but it’s just one of many opportunities available through the Hurt Hub and Matthews Center for Career Development. Students from all class years and backgrounds can access programs, workshops, coaching, and experiential learning opportunities designed to support their goals.
*At Davidson College, a student identifies as a first-generation college student if neither parent/legal guardian graduated from a four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
The NEXT Level program starts at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters.
Each week, plan to dedicate about seven hours to the NEXT Level program; five hours a week to your project, one hour to connect with your client, and one hour for skill development. Twice a month, the NEXT Level program will meet as a group either in the evening for dinner or during common hour for lunch to cover a professional or personal development topic.
Network
Interact with client partners and Davidson College staff to build a network on and off campus
Engage
Participate in self awareness and cohort activities to engage with each other and grow through shared experiences
eXplore
Complete 40 hours of paid project work to build skill sets and explore career opportunities
Together
Build a community to offer and receive ongoing support
As a part of the NEXT Level program you will:
Absolutely! NEXT Level is open to all first-generation sophomore students.
The Gig-Hub program offers Davidson students the opportunity to engage in paid short-term real-world projects with a diverse range of clients. This project based work, a gig, lets you, the client, complete a new or ongoing project while allowing students to expand their skill set.
To hire a student, you can start the process by submitting your project below.
Complete the NEXT Level interest form. After you submit the form, you will receive an email to attend an information session or set up a one-on-one meeting.
Prep your resume to include activities since starting at Davidson College and highlight new skills and experiences you have gained. Showcase all of your experiences – this included paid work and volunteer activities.
Serving as a mentor will connect you to Davidson students to offer project support and professional guidance.
The NEXT Level program runs two cohorts each year. One at the beginning of September through mid-November, and the second, February through mid-April.
Time Commitment: Approximately two hours per week, plus three optional program events throughout the semester.
Each week, plan to spend about one hour meeting with your student(s) and one hour reviewing project progress, providing feedback, and preparing for the next phase of the project.
Throughout the program, you’ll also have opportunities to engage beyond your student meetings, including an evening kickoff event, a mid-program gathering with fellow mentors and client partners, and an end-of-program celebration showcasing student accomplishments
Network
Interact with Davidson College students to help them build their professional network off campus. Meet other client partners to share ideas and build your network of local partners.
Engage
While partnering with students on project work, discover new opportunities to engage in your venture and new ways of thinking.
eXplore
Throughout the 40 hour project, explore ways your business will benefit from the student’s knowledge, enhance your skill set, and allow the student to explore career opportunities
Together
Be part of a community to offer and receive ongoing support
There is no cost to the client partner.
The Gig-Hub program offers Davidson students the opportunity to engage in paid short-term real-world projects with a diverse range of clients. This project based work, a gig, lets you, the client, complete a new or ongoing project while allowing students to expand their skill set.
To hire a student, you can start the process by submitting your project below.
