Thursday, August 28, 2025, 2:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) This event is a great opportunity for first-year, second-year, and transfer students to connect with peers, meet faculty and staff who support PBI,...
Pathways to Business and Industry
Find success in industry without a business major!
Pathways to Business and Industry (PBI) provides a unique opportunity for first- and second-year undergraduate students, as well as transfer students, who plan to pursue careers in business and industry but are not enrolled in the Cox School of Business. PBI offers access to a range of internship opportunities and exclusive activities, guiding students as they explore potential majors, and connecting them with relevant classes tailored to their interests and career goals. This program serves as a bridge for students, empowering them with resources and support geared towards their professional aspirations.
New! The PBI Playbook
Use this playbook to strategize your academic journey, make informed decisions and gain valuable experience at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøto set you apart in business and industry. This isn’t just a planning tool—it’s your game plan for success, unlocking exclusive opportunities comparable to those available in the Cox School of Business.
PBI Partners
Assistance navigating Pathways to Business & Industry is available to all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøstudents through the partner departments listed below. Partner faculty and staff will guide students through the process of goal discovery and achievement while providing students with support, enrichment, resources, and strategies to help set their pathway in motion.
-
Academic Departments
PBI partners with Academic departments to guide students into majors they may not have considered, but would be a great fit for their interests.
-
University Advising Center
The University Advising Center (UAC) supports pre-major students in identifying academic paths that support their career goals.
Phone: 214-768-2291 | Email: advising@smu.edu
-
Hegi Family Career Development Center
The Hegi Family Career Development Center equips students to cultivate meaningful lives through career development, continuous learning, and professional growth. We provide relevant opportunities for students to gain skills that position them for professional success.
Phone: 214-768-2266 | Email: hegicareercenter@smu.edu
-
Peer Academic Leaders
Peer Academic Leaders (PALs) are a diverse group of undergraduate students with a goal to help students better understand the Common Curriculum, utilize academic resources, and navigate academic challenges.
Phone: 214-768-6168 | Email: peeracademicleaders@smu.edu
-
Big iDeas
The Big iDeas program in the Office of Engaged Learning (OEL) hosts pitch competitions and provides training and coaching for entrepreneurial projects. Undergraduate students of any major are welcome to participate.
Phone: 214-768-4788 | Email: bigideas@smu.edu
-
Mustang Mentors
Through Mustang Mentors, students are paired with a peer mentor based on common interests, skills, and academic goals who can provide guidance and support as they transition to life at SMU.
Phone: 214-768-6885 | Email: mustangmentors@smu.edu
Get involved
-
JOIN PBI
-
Contact PBI
-
-
-
Events
View the most updated PBI events on 51³Ô¹ÏÍø360
Contact us
-
Alisha Bailey
Alisha Bailey is Assistant Director of the Office of Engaged Learning. She can answer your questions about Pathways to Business and Industry!
FAQ
Pathways to Business and Industry is geared towards first-year, sophomores, and new transfer students. There is no GPA requirement to participate.
PBI is an initiative for undergraduate students only. Graduate students are encouraged to seek out resources offered through Moody Graduate School.
PBI host various events and workshops throughout the academic year with our university service partners that include, University Advising Center, Hegi Family Career Center, Peer Academic Leaders (PALs), Big iDeas, and Mustang Mentors as well as certifications through the Business Library. These hour-long workshops will give students the opportunity to learn about business, finance, and leadership development certifications, Stepping Blocks Digital Career Counselor, engage with professors and peers, while also participating in special-themed activities. Students can find out more about the workshops and events through 51³Ô¹ÏÍøPathways to Business and Industry 51³Ô¹ÏÍø360.
No, PBI is a 51³Ô¹ÏÍøinitiative for undergraduate students that are not pursuing a Cox major. If you are pursuing a major in Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, Meadows School of the Arts, Lyle School of Engineering, Simmons School of Education and Human Development, and Cox School of Business (Business minor) with a business interest, then PBI is for you!
Upcoming Pathways events
-
-
Thursday, September 04, 2025, 12:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Kick off your journey with the Pathways to Business and Industry @ Lyle event! Discover how to design a personalized four-year academic and career...
-
Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 1:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Express who you are and what you stand for! Build your bracelet with your PBI PAL features a customizable space where students can reflect their...
-
Tuesday, October 07, 2025, 3:00pm — Online Event Explore how a History major can be your gateway to exciting careers in business and industry at Zoom In On: History. Learn how students have...