Illinois Tech Partners with Braven to Expand Career Readiness for Students

April 28, 2026Posted in: Students

We are excited to share that Illinois Tech is launching a new course in partnership with Braven this fall 2026, BRVN 200: Braven Career Success. This accelerator course is a 3-credit hybrid course designed to help students bridge the gap between college and career. The course is designed for sophomores and transfer juniors and is a new requirement for students receiving Chicago Difference and Hope Scholarships.

What this means for Illinois Tech students: Through weekly online modules and Learning Labs led by trained volunteer Leadership Coaches (including Illinois Tech alumni) Fellows will develop six core professional competencies: career navigation, communication, teamwork, problem solving, organization, and self-driven leadership. After completing the course, students continue to access professional mentors, curated internship and job opportunities, and a national career network.

Within six months of graduation, Braven Fellows are 14–22 percentage points ahead of their peers in securing quality full-time jobs or enrolling in graduate school. 92% graduate on time. 70% complete at least one internship during college.

Details for Students

Who it’s required for:

  • Effective fall 2026, the Braven Career Success course is a required experiential career component for all students enrolled in Chicago Difference Scholars and Hope Scholars scholarship programs. Students in these programs should expect to enroll during their sophomore year.

Who else can take it:

  • The course is also available as an optional experiential learning activity within the Elevate program for all eligible undergraduates. It counts toward the Elevate sophomore-year experiential requirement.

As Braven Fellows, students will:

  • Learn who they are as a professional with confidence and clarity
  • Build their resume and a LinkedIn profile that stands out
  • Practice interviewing and networking with supportive volunteers
  • Get 1:1 career coaching and access to the Braven alumni network real support, before and after graduation

Course Details:

  • Course: BRVN 200, Braven Career Success
  • Format: Hybrid (in-person and virtual)
  • Credits: 3
  • When: Fall 2026, Wednesdays at 5–7 p.m., or Thursdays at 3:15–5:15 p.m.

View more information on the Braven Career Success webpage.