xFoundry@UMD

In xFoundry's flagship program, Xperience, students work across disciplines and compete to launch a venture that will solve one of society's grand challenges. In the 2024-25 School Safety Competition, students will work to develop a software-based active shooter detection and mitigation system for K-12 campuses. Xperience emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, making it a unique entrepreneurship-focused path at UMD.

The Xperience Competition Fellowship allows UMD graduate students to participate in the xFoundry Xperience academic track and grand challenge competition. Recipients will receive guided access through the competition, enabling them to collaborate, innovate, and develop crucial skills for their academic and professional journey.

Responsibilities

Participate actively in Xperience courses (XPER 444 & XPER 455) by following the course schedule, attending all classes in person, and completing required assignments
Participate actively in the School Safety Grand Challenge competition by creating or being part of and participating in a multidisciplinary team
Attend all regular classes, meetings, presentations, and networking events affiliated with the competition
Implement course teachings, provided resources, and mentor network lessons to create an applicable solution to the grand challenge competition
Meet and pass all of the Xperience Competition Milestone Requirements
Provide high-quality content, including, but not limited to, design sprints, business plan and technical approaches, video demos, sales pitches, and prototype demonstrations and testing
Communicate findings and insights effectively through presentations and reports to supervisors
Serve as a leader and active participant in your team throughout the competition

Qualifications

Currently enrolled in a UMDCP graduate program (Master's or Ph.D.)
Previous experience in taking the initiative in a team setting in order to drive projects forward
Demonstrated passion for solving community issues, prioritizing curiosity, creativity, and multidisciplinary collaboration by being part of innovation centered programs or experiences (not required but desired)

Additional information

Compensation

550-900 stipend per semester. Payment is contingent upon quality of participation and completion of requirements

Hourly pay

Duration

Fall 2024 semester - Spring 2025 semester, with 15 weeks per semester

Weekly commitment

Minimum of 3-4 hours in class, plus additional hours working on the competition (will vary)

Office format

XPER444 (Fall 2024) will will be held in person weekly on Thursdays from 3:30-6:30pm. You must be present for each class meeting. XPER455 (Spring 2025) class times are TBD.

Apply now

Fall-spring semesters

Xperience Competition Graduate Fellowship