NYC Startup Trek
****Due to current university travel restrictions, the Summer 2020 career treks have been cancelled. We hope to resume the NCA trek program in 2021.****
Join us on our Startup Career Trek to NYC, sponsored by NCA and The Garage! Students will have the opportunity to visit growing companies and meet with key alumni. The trek is during Spring Break.
The schedule for this year’s trek is not finalized. In previous years, students had an opportunity to visit Next Big Sound, TVP, Parachute Health, Managed by Q, and many others. Employer details will be updated on the website as site visits are confirmed.
This trek is intended for full-time degree seeking Northwestern undergraduate students in one of the following schools/colleges: Bienen, McCormick, Medill, School of Communication, SESP or Weinberg with a demonstrated interest in entrepreneurship and technology. Selected students will be responsible for their own transportation to and from New York City. In addition, selected students will be responsible for a non-refundable $300.00 deposit. The deposit will be used to cover hotel accommodations for all attendees, transportation around the New York City area and some additional costs.
Don’t miss this opportunity to network with key professionals and position yourself well for a future in technology and start-ups! We hope to see you there!
NCA welcomes The Garage as our Trek partner for 2020!
important dates
|
Important Dates for Startup Spring Break Trek to NY
|
February 5, 2020
(11:59pm) |
Application Deadline |
|
February 19, 2020
(5:00pm)
|
Students are notified of selection via email |
| TBD |
Career Trek Orientation |
| March 24 - March 26, 2020 |
Trek to NY |
Application
NCA is no longer accepting applications for this career trek.
Expenses & Costs
Each selected student will be expected to pay a non-refundable $300.00 deposit. This deposit will be used to cover the cost of hotel rooms for the duration of the trek, transportation around New York City and some additional costs (printing of materials, etc.).
Each selected attendee is expected to cover his/her own travel to and from New York City. In addition, each attendee should expect to cover all meals during the trek.
Travel costs will vary by student depending on originating location and whether students plan to drive or fly to New York City. Students can expect to pay between $30 and $50 each day for food/meals.
Financial concerns should NOT prevent any student from applying to the trek. If you have any financial concerns related to the $300.00 deposit or travel expenses, please contact Val Schoonover and/or Brett Boettcher at Northwestern Career Advancement. Financial assistance may be available to students who currently receive financial aid from Northwestern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply?
Full-time degree seeking Northwestern undergraduate students in one of the following schools/colleges: Bienen, McCormick, Medill, School of Communication, SESP or Weinberg.
In the application, students must show a demonstrated interest in and an understanding of careers in entrepreneurship and technology. In order to be considered for the trek, students must be on campus during Spring Quarter 2020 and available to travel to New York City and participate in the entire trek from March 24 – March 26, 2020
How many students will be selected for the trek?
We are looking for any qualified student to attend, with a maximum number of 25 attendees.
What are the requirements to participate?
Students who are selected to participate in the trek will be required to complete the following:
- Pay a $300.00 non-refundable deposit. These funds will be used to cover hotel accommodations for all participants, transportation around New York City, and some additional costs. The deposit is due prior to the start of the trek (exact date TBD).
- Arrange transportation to and from New York City and submit travel plans to Val Schoonover and/or Brett Boettcher
- Complete a reflection essay about your experience and a feedback survey following the trek.
How will the applicants be evaluated?
Applicants will be evaluated based on completeness of application materials, thoughtfulness of application essay and resume, and relevance of applicant background and career goals.
Where will I stay during the trek?
- Northwestern Career Advancement will arrange hotel accommodations for all participants for the nights of March 23 through March 25. We ask that students arrive on Monday evening to prepare for an early-morning start on Tuesday.
- More information on the specific hotel and location will be made available in late February.
- All trek participants are required to stay in the hotel arranged by NCA.
Can I request a roommate?
Yes, you can request a roommate. If you know someone else attending the trek, you may request to room with him/her in the hotel. Only male/male and female/female roommates will be allowed. All requests will be accepted once students are selected for the trek. If you do not request a roommate, one will be assigned.
How will I get around the city?
Students will travel around to locations by the subway and a lot of walking! There will be two University staff members leading students with a detailed map, agenda, and travel plan. Northwestern Career Advancement staff will provide each participant with a New York City MTA MetroCard for use during the trek. Be sure to wear or bring comfortable shoes!
If you require special accommodations, please contact Val Schoonover and/or Brett Boettcher.
What should I wear?
Students should be prepared to present themselves in a professional manner at all times during the trek. More information about dress and professional behavior can be answered by contacting Val Schoonover and/or Brett Boettcher.
What will be the itinerary in the city?
This information will be made available to selected participants as employers confirm their participation. The final itinerary will be shared with participants by end of February.
Still have questions?