The ACI/BravenX partnership continues to drive meaningful career outcomes for students across Illinois. In Fall 2025, the program supported 64 fellows, with 82% reporting that Braven improved their chances of securing their desired job or graduate school admission after college.
Student feedback underscored the program’s emphasis on confidence-building, skill development, and connection. Fellows cited mock interviews, resume support, and the Capstone Challenge as standout experiences, while many highlighted the value of working in teams, learning from diverse perspectives, and forming new professional relationships. One student shared, “Meeting different people from diverse backgrounds helped me improve my skills and feel more confident applying to opportunities.”
The program’s impact is already translating into real-world success. Following the Fall 2025 Accelerator, Jaiden, a student at Eureka College, reported securing a Microbiology Internship with PMP Fermentation Products, Inc. in Peoria, Illinois.
This Spring, BravenX is expanding its footprint with four new ACI rural partner institutions: Illinois College, Millikin University, Knox College, and Quincy University. This effort was made possible through funding secured by Braven. The total spring cohort now includes 63 students from ACI schools, marking the largest BravenX cohort since ACI launched the partnership in the Fall of 2024.
Together, these results reflect the growing strength of collaboration and its critical role in preparing students to navigate their careers with confidence, clarity, and a sense of community.