At Poole College, we are constantly exploring new ways to engage with communities and provide impactful experiences for our students. One of our recent initiatives focuses on bridging the gap between rural employers and young talent, which benefits both our students and the regions that drive North Carolina’s economy.

This summer, we launched Business HIRE (High-Impact Rural Experiences), a new program placing undergraduates in full-time, paid internships with companies in rural North Carolina. With support from an NC State University Foundation grant, 11 students completed 12-week placements in nine different counties, combining on-the-job experience, professional development and community service. They gained experience across a wide range of functional areas, including marketing, economic development, operations and sales. 

“The program is already proving its value: students developed real-world skills while rural employers benefited from top talent and new pipelines to their companies.”

The program is already proving its value: students developed real-world skills while rural employers benefited from top talent and new pipelines to their companies. 

Take senior Ethan Knodel for example, who described his internship at Tri-State Steel in Reidsville as “transformative.” Through Business HIRE, Ethan transitioned into a full-time operations role, where he learned to lead authentically, strengthened his soft skills, and gained fresh perspective on business operations. 

“We are excited to see this program flourish and to launch new initiatives that continue driving lasting impact across North Carolina.”

Business HIRE has given us a powerful model for creating opportunities where students, communities and employers thrive together. We are excited to see this program flourish and to launch new initiatives that continue driving lasting impact across North Carolina. 

Always looking forward,

Frank Buckless
Stephen P. Zelnak Jr. Dean
Poole College of Management

More from Poole Business: Fall 2025

Through exciting new initiatives — and more on the way — Poole College continues driving lasting impact across North Carolina.

Stats & Strengths

New academic departments, student award-winners and new rankings are among the year’s highlights. Check out more updates from across the college.

Scholars Who Lead and Give Back

The college’s first Dean’s Scholars are committed to building community and excelling academically.

A Legacy of Learning

After more than three decades of service to the college, beloved accounting professor Kathy Krawczyk retires.

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