About Sapphire
Sapphire Leadership Academic Program
The Sapphire Leadership Academic Program is designed for high-achieving students who have been accepted to the Smeal College of Business and would like to enhance their business school experience. By providing unique academic content, leadership and professional development opportunities, and real-world application of knowledge gained inside the classroom, the Sapphire Leadership Academic Program empowers student leaders to make an impact on business and society.
Sapphire 4 Year Roadmap
Year 1 – Discover The Leader Within
Courses
- PSU 6S – First Year Seminar Business
- MGMT 301 – Basic Management Concepts
- FYF – First Year Fundamentals
Professional Development
- Establish professional basics
Leadership Development
- Awareness of Leadership Styles
- Develop Self-Awareness
- Developing mentorship relationship
Community Service
- Bridge high school community service experiences to college
Sapphire Involvement
- Use the First-Year Mentorship program for immersion into Sapphire culture and community
Year 2 – Develop Your Leadership Habits
Courses
- BA 342 – Socially Responsible, Sustainable, and Ethical Business Practice
- BA 297 – Issues in Business and Leadership
Professional Development
- Career Fair Preparation
- Professional Involvement Pursuits
- Career Discovery and Selecting Majors
Leadership Development
- Step into Leadership Roles
- Develop Leadership Philosophies
Community Service
- Establish servant leadership mindset
Sapphire Involvement
- Find mentors within Sapphire with similar leadership and career ambitions
Year 3 – Lead With a Purpose
Courses
- MGMT 355 – Leadership and Change in Organizations
Professional Development
- Securing Internship/Co-op
- Long-Term Planning
- Personal Branding
Leadership Development
- Leadership Reflection & Adaptability
- Narrowing focus on leadership goals
Community Service
- Continuation of servant leadership
Sapphire Involvement
- Mentor Underclassmen
- Sapphire Ambassador Program
- Foster Sapphire Culture
Year 4 – Leave A Legacy
Courses
- BA 411 – Analyzing Business and Industry
Professional Development
- Transitioning from college to workplace
Leadership Development
- Mentor underclassmen on leadership
Community Service
- Create long-term commitments to Community Service beyond college
Sapphire Involvement
- Mentor Underclassmen
- Sapphire Ambassador Program
Dedicated Program Adviser
All Sapphire students have a dedicated adviser in the Undergraduate Education Office. Your adviser is responsible for monitoring your progress to ensure completion of all requirements in the Sapphire program.
Access to Business Leaders
A critical component of the Sapphire program is providing unique access to business leaders, through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one discussions. As a Sapphire student, you will have many opportunities to connect with leaders from top companies, which will enhance your own leadership knowledge and abilities.
Collaborative Learning Environment
As part of a cohort of students with similar levels of motivation, Sapphire students benefit from a close-knit community of talent and drive. In addition to small course sections, Sapphire students are encouraged to list the Business and Society House (BASH) as a housing contract preference. In close proximity to the Business Building, residents can take advantage of study groups, mentoring programs, and a variety of social activities with their Sapphire peers.