Accelerator Scholars

The Accelerator Scholars Program helps first-generation students at Cornell’s Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management and Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration schools succeed through mentorship, resources and small peer and professional mentor groups.

A program for first-generation undergrads

The Accelerator Scholars program, supported by our founding corporate partner KKR, provides enhanced resources, mentorship, and opportunities for first-generation Dyson and Nolan undergraduates to support their success at Cornell. Scholars participate in cohort-wide events and Mentor Pods, each consisting of three scholars, one junior or senior student mentor and one KKR professional mentor.

Focus on life and professional skills for long-term success in business.
Empowers students with knowledge, skills, resources and networks to succeed.
Provides cohort-wide professional development workshops, with tailored programming for first-years, sophomores and upperclass mentors.
Fosters inclusive, meaningful relationships within and across class years that promote a stronger culture of belonging and better positioning for academic, social and career success.
Supports first-gen students in navigating academic expectations, addressing financial pressures, strengthening self-efficacy and educating about college systems.

2026-27 Accelerator Scholar Application

For first years ’30, sophomores ’29, and transfer students
Due: Monday, September 7, 2026

Apply now to be an Accelerator Scholar

2026-27 Accelerator Scholar Mentor Application

For rising juniors ’28 and seniors ’27
Due: Sunday, June 14, 2026

Apply now to be an Accelerator Scholar Mentor

Program benefits

Accelerator Scholars are paid for their participation in the program. First‑gen college students bring exceptional talent, resilience and perspective to our campus, yet they often face unique barriers that can limit their ability to fully engage in co‑curricular and professional development opportunities. Many first‑gen students balance academic demands with work obligations, family responsibilities and financial pressures. Compensating students for their participation ensures that involvement in this program does not require them to choose between essential income and transformative learning experiences.

Professional development

Networking best practices
Navigating professionalism
Business etiquette
The art and science of negotiation
Elevating your personal brand
Executive presence
AI in the workplace
Emotional and cultural intelligence
Persuasion and influence

Career preparation

Recruiting and networking strategies
Resumes and cover letters
Behavioral interview prep
Technical interview prep
Case interview prep
Career trek to NYC

Core competencies and catered advising

Personal taxes
Financial literacy
Peer mentorship
Staff coaching
Faculty engagement
Campus resources

Financial literacy

Cornell SC Johnson College of Business is partnering with Kindros Foundation to provide a free financial literacy learning platform for Cornell students that offers online training in personal finance fundamentals. Accelerator Scholars who successfully complete the self-paced online training modules will receive an official certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile.

Contact us

Student inquiries

Dr. Jennifer Majka, The Dyson School
Victor Younger, The Nolan School

Corporate inquiries

Peter Krieger, External Relations

*Cornell defines first-generation as students who come from a family in which neither of their parents or guardians has obtained a four-year college degree. Learn more about Cornell first-generation and low-income student support.