Paying Students to Find and Get a Job

The problem we seek to solve is ensuring our students have a paid job as soon as they graduate.

ArtSci Lab, housed within the Bass School at the University of Texas at Dallas, is a research laboratory dedicated to exploring the intersection of art and science and other disciplines. We use the methods of convergence research on problems to solve. We apply the science of complex systems to anticipate emergent societal shifts-such as changes in the job market. Our mission is to offer meaningful, hands-on, real-world experiences that help students build confidence, gain technical and creative skills, and move toward fulfilling career paths. Through mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement, we work to empower students both academically and professionally while enriching lives on and off campus.

About the Project

The ArtSci Lab Student Launch Pad is designed to directly support students in launching their careers by giving them pay, structured time to apply for jobs, interview, build professional portfolios, and navigate the challenges of entering the evolving workforce. Unlike traditional scholarships or assistantships, this initiative pays students specifically for job-seeking activities-because securing employment itself is a demanding, skill-intensive process, especially for international students, interdisciplinary students, and mid-career learners.

Convergent research method addresses “What kind of problems do I want to work on and solve during my career? What local employers are working on these kinds of problems.

This project builds upon the Lab’s long-standing culture of experiential learning and mentorship. Our initiatives span diverse areas-from cutting-edge AI applications to intergenerational, community-centered programs. For example, in our Make AI with Purpose project, we hired an intern to build practical AI tools aimed at social good. In Silver Ingenuity, students teach older adults how to use new technologies while gaining mentorship and wisdom from retired community members.

The Launch Pad expands this mission by equipping students with structured career development, interview preparation, networking guidance, and individualized planning that complements-but does not duplicate-UTD Career Center services. Our focus is on students who often fall through the cracks of traditional support systems, providing high-quality guidance tailored to their unique challenges.

Why It Matters

Many students struggle to translate their academic success into job market readiness. The Launch Pad addresses this gap by giving students a realistic, supportive environment that mimics real-world professional conditions. Our track record demonstrates the value of this approach:

• Kevin Ge and Daniel Vaymen launched successful careers in aerospace with our support.
• Omer Ahmed, who led marketing efforts in our lab, secured a job before graduation at Astrazeneka.

These stories illustrate how hands-on engagement, mentorship, and financial support can meaningfully change students’ futures.

By empowering students to focus on job applications, interview preparation, and career transitions, we reduce financial barriers, boost confidence, and ensure they graduate ready to contribute effectively to their industries and communities. The job market is evolving, new kinds of jobs are emerging.

Fundraising Goal

Our goal for this ImpactUTD campaign is to raise $5,000. This funding will directly translate into more internships, more mentorship hours, and more students graduating job-ready.

How Funds Will Be Used

Funds will be distributed to students as direct financial support for job-hunting efforts.:

• Searching and applying for positions
• Preparing for interviews
• Updating portfolios, CVs, and online professional profiles such as publishing online in unusual ways.
• Relocating or transitioning for employment opportunities

Stretch Goals

If additional funds are raised beyond the initial $5,000, we will use them to subsidize internships for students at local companies, giving them even greater access to industry experience and real-world learning environments.

Impact on Students, UTD, and the Community

The direct beneficiaries of this project are UTD students-particularly those who may otherwise struggle to secure industry opportunities. By helping more students secure internships and full-time roles, contribute to local workforce development, and build long-term community connections.

Beyond job placement, this program cultivates resilience, creativity, and confidence in students as they navigate professional environments. By investing in students now, we create a ripple effect that benefits the university and the broader North Texas community for years to come.

About ArtSci Lab

ArtSci Lab has a 13-year history of bridging creativity and research. Our past achievements include receiving DARPA funding to convert fMRI data from trauma patients into sound, as an aid for diagnosis-an example of our boundary-pushing innovation. Today, we host the Off-Center for Emergence Studies and lead initiatives such as Make AI with Purpose and Silver Ingenuity.

Our alumni outcomes demonstrate our impact:

• Alejandro Garcia, a former student, became a U.S. citizen and now directs films and film festivals.

What Makes Us Unique

One of ArtSci Lab’s most innovative contributions is our “watering hole” model-an informal, open space where students can speak freely, express anxieties, collaborate, and learn from one another. These conversations are not one-way presentations; they are genuine dialogues that nurture community and emotional well-being. Many sessions are published, multi-lingually on our Creative Disturbance podcast channel on the official UTD website, giving students visibility and a platform to share their ideas.

Learn More

Website: https://artscilab.utdallas.edu/
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