Recently I spoke with Sinehan Ercengiz, a senior in the Business program and President of the Enactus organization on campus. If you are like me, you have seen this around UNH Manchester but it is a bit of a mystery. I asked a few students in the hallways what this group does and for the most part, I received blank stares. I presented Sinehan and the rest of the group with some questions to try and get to the bottom of this mystery.
Enactus is not an organization that is confined to UNH Manchester but rather a global one. The statement I received from the group explained, “The purpose of this organization is to enable progress through entrepreneurial action. Basically, our team works with local small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs on real business projects”.
One may think of them as a group of consultants that enter businesses to teach them good practices. Enactus is sometimes considered a club, but as they tell me “students involved can earn two-credits per semester for up to four semesters. This is due to the hard work involved in the real-world projects we undertake.” This year alone Enactus has partaken in five different projects, Sewing Confidence, BST Inc, uMonger, Metrix 411, and DCNH where they did everything from beta-testing websites to developing marketing plans.
Enactus did not always exist at UNH Manchester. Professor Kelly Kilcrease brought the organization to this campus and had this to say, "I started the UNH Manchester Chapter five years ago as it was a program that I brought over from my previous university. In that time we have won Rookie of the Year and three regional championships. We have impacted over 10,000 people directly and indirectly during that time, and have made an economic contribution above $500,000." That is impressive. The Enactus group regularly partakes in contests around the country. “In past years, we have attended both regional and national competitions. This year, they've combine the program into just one national competition, which we will compete in April 1-3.” Wish them luck, although after hearing about their success, I don’t think they need it!
So what’s the deal? Can I walk up to the organization and just join? No, not exactly. Although Enactus does accept all majors, there is a process that a student must go through before they can join. They explained “We welcome all who are interested to request more information… However, Enactus is considered an elite group of students, and those interested in joining are expected to seek a recommendation from a current member, as well as interview with Dr. Kilcrease”.
Is it worth the effort? It seems to be so. The activities that students are exposed to are wonderful resume builders and contain great real world experience.
Co-Vice President Kristen Mosher told me how Enactus has benefitted her. “It provides a very unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and have an impact on your community. I appreciate being able combine my interest in business with my passion for positive social impact and utilizing creative thinking and collaboration to help improve lives”.
Sean Khan, a senior in the business department and a member of Enactus, had this to add. “I decided to join Enactus as a resume builder. Once a member of Enactus, I learned very quickly the importance of communication when working in a team environment. In addition, I learned how to engage people more effectively.”
Sinehan Ercengiz, the President of the organization explained that it is not all about the Benjamins. “Sure, it's rewarding to help an organization make money. It's a much greater reward helping an organization make a difference.”
So there you have it. A look into this group of students who are making a difference in the community while taking steps to better their own futures.
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Raquel Gawron is a senior history major working in the Student Activities Office as a social media coordinator. Raquel is also a frequent contributor to UNH Manchester's student blog.
