DENTON (UNT), Texas — The University of North Texas is helping students prepare for their careers through the RCOB EDGE Program, an initiative in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business designed to develop professional skills, leadership experience and industry connections before graduation.

The program encourages students to complete activities focused on five key career-readiness milestones: career and professional development, leadership and teamwork cultural and community engagement, student success, and ethical and social responsibility. Students track their progress through an app, earning recognition for their achievements, including a stole or pin at graduation.

“The EDGE Program was designed to make student engagement easier, more effective and more fun. We built a standout program that meets students where they are — on their phones,” said Kirsten Durr, the student success coordinator in the Ryan College of Business, who oversees the RCOB Edge Program. “With our gamified app powered by Suitable, EDGE makes tracking engagement simple while giving the college valuable insights to better support students.”

EDGE activities include networking events, participating in leadership workshops and engaging with industry professionals. Students can attend in-person events at the Denton campus, UNT at Frisco or virtually. Students are also able to complete activities they can do at home at their own pace. The goal is to help students enter the workforce with tangible experience that sets them apart.

Matthew Molito, UNT sophomore marketing major, said his experience with EDGE has been “very positive” and that having goals has set him up for success.

“EDGE is the unsung hero of the Ryan College of Business,” Molito said. “I’ve had opportunities to volunteer, attend etiquette dinners and participate in career fairs. I’m able to see all of those events on the app.”

EDGE events give students the opportunity to learn more about business programs, connect with peers and gain additional insights into career development opportunities. EDGE also provides students with an ePortfolio, allowing them to document their experiences and share their accomplishments with potential employers.

“I’m a first-gen student, and before coming to UNT, I didn’t know anyone who works in finance. Through EDGE, I’ve met people in the industry and that’s helped me,” said Wendy Caballero, a sophomore and EDGE participant for two years. “The program helps me stay on-track, and checking the app is something I look forward to every day.”