What kind of student should apply?

We attempt to select a wide variety of students each year. First and foremost, students should have a sincere desire to learn about business and the intent to study business as a college major. Strong academic achievement with evidence of community and/or school involvement and leadership potential are prerequisites.

What will we learn?

A lot! The program curriculum and sessions, as well as interactions with speakers, business leaders and alumni, provide an overview of most business disciplines and majors, as well as exposure to various career opportunities. You will gain a sense of where your business interests lie and what personality and leadership traits you possess. You will also learn about entrepreneurship and the components of a business plan by developing and presenting an abbreviated plan in small groups. MGSIers gain valuable exposure and life skills throughout the program, as well.

What is a typical day?

There is not a typical day, but they are all busy. Whether in a class or playing a pick-up game during free time, you are usually doing something. We usually start with breakfast around 8 a.m. and conclude with a group meeting between 10-11 p.m. After a little down time, it’s time for sleep to gear up for another great day. We are very intentional in providing a variety of structure and activity each day.

Will I have a roommate?

Yes! In fact, you will have more than one roommate throughout the program. One roommate is assigned while you are on campus in a traditional two-person room. Then you have the opportunity to room with other people on the trip in hotel lodging; numbers vary. Most participants appreciate the opportunity to have more than one roommate.

Do we fly or drive to Washington, DC and New York?

We travel by charter bus provided by the Appalachian State University motor pool.

What do we do in Washington, DC and New York?

The time in each city is usually divided 50/50 between work and play. Our “work” is experiential business visits to companies and organizations, and our “play” is seeing some of the best sites the areas offer! In DC, we may visit the offices of Senators and Representatives, the Commission of the European Union, trade and non-profit organizations. In New York, we usually enter the New York Stock Exchange, and we visit headquarters for various companies or organizations. It’s all unforgettable!

What kind of rules and curfews do we have?

MGSI provides a balance between structure and free time; a sample schedule is provided on the website. There are curfews each night, and rules are in place to provide a fun, safe and productive environment. There are four MGSI leadership consultants, or counselors, who provide valuable structure and have a blast with everyone throughout the program. As the saying goes – we work hard and play hard!

What are the advantages of participating in MGSI?

Many. Most summer programs have more than 100 participants. MGSI is small and personal with only 24 participants. Lifelong friendships develop each year. Travel is an integral component - visiting New York and Washington is amazing and affordable. While $1,000 is a significant amount of money, it is a value considering the travel and all that is included. Participants are also exposed to a college campus and have the opportunity to learn about college life. The focus is business, but participants learn much more.