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Engineering Industry First Cohort

An Exclusive Opportunity

Build meaningful industry connections, join a high-achieving community and launch your engineering career early through the School of Engineering's Engineering Industry First cohort — an exclusive opportunity designed for UD's highest-achieving engineering students who want to accelerate their path from classroom to career.

Key Date

April 1

program application deadline

What Is the Engineering Industry First Cohort?

The program is a selective cohort that connects top incoming engineering students with leading engineering employers starting in their first semester on campus. Cohort students will participate in immersive, employer-engaged experiences in their first year, gaining early exposure to real engineering environments.

Apply to the Program
Read the FAQs
Student at a GE Aerospace co-op

What Makes this Experience Different?

Access Industry Immediately

Go on industry site visits, attend networking events and explore your future career with some of the Dayton area's most innovative engineering organizations.

Accelerated Career Pipeline

Scholars will receive exclusive access to apply for at least 25 full-time paid engineering internships in the summer after their first year. These opportunities are typically reserved for upper-level students.

Built-In Community

Have the opportunity to live together in designated first-year housing, creating a strong peer network and support system from day one. Build your community through kickoff events, discovery labs and other events with fellow scholars.

High-Touch Support

Be involved in professional development, guided resume and interview preparation and personalized exposure to engineering pathways from our professional staff in the Engineering Co-Op and Internship Office.

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Industry Partners

Industry partners you may engage with include:

  • GE Aerospace
  • University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI)
  • Danis
Apply by April 1
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Frequently Asked Questions

Program Structure and Commitment

What is the time commitment during the academic year?

Students participate in 5–7 program experiences per semester, typically scheduled to complement academic coursework.

Will this interfere with classes or academic workload?

No. All activities are designed to support academic success, not compete with it. The program intentionally integrates professional development without extending time to degree.

Is this a multi-year program or only for first-year students?

The structured cohort experience begins in the first year, with continued mentorship and transition into UD’s co-op and internship ecosystem as students progress.
Career and Industry Access

Are internships guaranteed?

While internships are not guaranteed, students receive exclusive early access to apply to at least 25 paid engineering internships for Summer 2027, significantly increasing competitiveness and placement outcomes.

How is this different from applying for internships later?

Most students do not access industry networks or competitive internships until junior year. Students begin building relationships, experience and professional readiness from their first semester.
Mentorship and Support

Who mentors students in the program? How is this different from academic advising?

Students are mentored by a dedicated team of professional engineers within UD’s Engineering Co-op and Internship Office, each bringing years of industry experience and employer insight.

How is this different from academic advising?

This mentorship focuses on career navigation, professional readiness and industry engagement, complementing — not replacing — academic advising.

What kind of support do students receive?

Students receive guidance on career exploration, résumé building, interview preparation, internship strategy and long-term professional planning.
Housing and Community

Is participation in cohort housing required? Why is cohort housing valuable?

Cohort housing is strongly encouraged but not required. Students living together benefit from a built-in support network, shared experiences and connections with peers who are similarly motivated and high-achieving.

Can I live with a friend that is not in the program?

Yes. You can pick your roommate and still be housed with the cohort. Your roommate does not have to be in the cohort.

I am accepted to Honors and/or WISE, how does this affect my housing options?

You will remain in your chosen cohort program placed near other students in the cohort.

My housing has already been assigned, what do I need to do?

You may decide to keep your current housing assignment, or change to cohort housing with your current roommate, or be placed with another scholar. Please reach out to housing@udayton.edu if you would like to change your assignment based on cohort selection.
Eligibility and Selection

Why was my student invited? Is this program open to all engineering students?

Invitations are extended to students with exceptional academic achievement and demonstrated interest in engineering excellence and professional growth. This is a selective program designed to maintain quality, access and individualized support.

What happens if the program fills?

Once full, a waitlist will be created. Offers may be extended if spots become available.
Cost and Value

Is there an additional cost to participate?

There is no additional program fee beyond standard tuition and housing costs.

What is the return on investment for families

Families value early industry access, accelerated internship opportunities, professional mentorship and a structured pathway that strengthens career readiness and long-term outcomes.
Application and Next Steps

How does my student apply? Is there a deadline?

Students must be invited to apply to the program. They must complete the online application by April 1, 2026.

How can we learn more before deciding?

Families are encouraged to attend a UD Admitted Student Day. A special information session for students invited to the program will be held in Kettering Labs 203 from 3:45-4:15 p.m. on March 8 and 29.

Can't make it? You can schedule an in-person Engineering Academic Visit or virtual meeting by emailing udengineering@udayton.edu.