Empowering Strategic Management Students Through Real-World Consulting: Linking Experiential Learning and Business Development

Abstract: The proposal presents a successful capstone project from a university that has significantly impacted both the local community and students. Designed for faculty teaching upper-level undergraduate strategic management courses, the session highlights best practices for integrating experiential learning through student-led consulting. Participants will explore how this model addresses the critical issues of small business survival while enhancing student engagement and skill development. This interactive format will guide attendees in adapting the project to their own institutions, offering practical tools such as rubrics, client-matching strategies, and other resources.

Keywords: Experiential Learning, Strategic Management Education, Student Consulting