Southern Arkansas University is thrilled to announce the launch of the Mulerider Next Step Guarantee program for the freshman class of 2025. This innovative initiative is designed to ignite passion and empower students from their very first day through graduation as they embark on their journeys to professional success!
The program will allow students to dive into career opportunities, hone essential skills, gain invaluable experience, and forge connections that will last a lifetime. With personalized guidance, engaging workshops, and dynamic networking opportunities, students will be fully equipped to navigate their unique paths to success!
The Mulerider Next Step Guarantee program assures that students who fulfill the program requirements will confidently step into their next adventure—landing an exciting job in their field or related area or gaining acceptance into a graduate or professional school—all within six months of graduation. This transformative initiative is the only one of its kind in Arkansas, paving the way for a brighter future and setting students on the path to success. “Students who invest in a SAU education should feel confident that we will do everything in our power to help them reach their full potential,” shared Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president. “The Mulerider Next Step Guarantee embodies our belief that a degree from SAU opens doors to achieving professional dreams.”
The addition of this program builds on SAU’s robust commitment to student support and career readiness initiatives. SAU Career Services has a proud history of effectively guiding students in their career preparation. Anne Sands, director of Career Services, expressed her enthusiasm for the Mulerider Next Step Guarantee program, stating, “This initiative is a powerful message to our students, parents, and community that we are dedicated to our mission of supporting students right here on campus.” Sands continued, “I take immense pride in our Career Services team and the resources we have provided in recent years. I am thrilled that this program will inspire even more students to tap into the valuable career resources available to them.”
As part of the Mulerider Next Step Guarantee, students will receive training focused on developing both hard and soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking—all highly valued by employers in today’s workforce. Additionally, students will have access to internship opportunities that provide practical experience and enhance their employability upon graduation.
For eligible students who do not secure a full-time position or graduate/professional school acceptance within six months of graduation, SAU will offer dedicated career coaching and the option to enroll in up to nine additional hours of undergraduate coursework to augment their career readiness. Participants also have an alternative option to enroll in up to six additional undergraduate credits and a paid internship to acquire valuable work experience. The tuition and fees for these additional courses will be covered by the University.
We encourage students to join us in the exciting endeavor. Whether students are seeking internships, mentorships, or exploring career paths, the Mulerider Next Step Guarantee ensures them that they will have the needed tools and support every step of the way!
For all the exciting details about the Mulerider Next Step Guarantee, including eligibility and program specifics, visit us at www.saumag.edu/NextStep.
