Student Immersion Experience

ABOUT

The Student Immersion Experience is a dynamic, two-day event designed to attract top student talent and showcase the many career opportunities within the South Bend – Elkhart region. Hosted bi-annually by the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership, this event connects students from colleges and universities across Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan with leading employers in Manufacturing, Healthcare, IT, and Higher Education. With an anticipated attendance of 35–50 students, participants will engage in site visits, networking events, speaker panels, and a showcase of regional companies, gaining face-to-face access to employers offering paid summer internships and employment opportunities. Beyond career opportunities, students will experience the region’s thriving economy and outstanding quality of life and place.

Applications are due by Friday, October 23rd.

DETAILS

WHO

The Students:

Undergraduate and Graduate Students searching for internships or full-time employment opportunities in the South Bend-Elkhart Region.

The Companies:

Regional Companies in Manufacturing, Healthcare, IT, and Higher Education driving our region’s workforce and economic growth.

WHEN

Thursday, November 12th – Friday, November 13th

This is a bi-annual experience hosted by the South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership, with one experience offered in the Fall and one in the Spring.

ACCOMMODATION + COST

All expenses are paid for students, which includes hotel, meals, & activities. Students are only responsible for their transportation to the event.

ACTIVITIES

Regional Company Showcase

Explore career paths with top employers in manufacturing, healthcare, IT, and higher education.

Exclusive Site Visits

Gain behind-the-scenes insights into innovative workplaces and career opportunities.

Speakers and Panels

Learn from influential voices and leaders who are shaping the future of our region.

Professional Networking

Connect with top regional employers in dynamic and engaging settings.

FALL 2026 ITINERARY

Thursday, November 12th

Hotel Elkhart, Elkhart | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Welcome Dinner

The experience begins with our Welcome Dinner, an evening of inspiration, conversation, and connection. Attendees will enjoy keynote remarks and networking while dining inside one of the region’s architectural landmarks.

Friday, November 13th

Wellfield Botanical Gardens, Elkhart | 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM | Welcome Breakfast

Begin day two by highlighting more of the region’s character, charm, and talent. A panel of young professionals from across our communities–each at a different stage of their career–will spark an engaging and insightful dialogue over breakfast.

Four Winds Field, South Bend | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Company Showcase

After breakfast, attendees will travel for the centerpiece of the Student Immersion Experience: the Regional Company Showcase. Attendees will engage with leading employers, explore in-demand opportunities, and get a chance to network over lunch.

Tire Rack, South Bend | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Regional Company Site Visit

The day concludes with an onsite visit to a seminal regional business–Tire Rack. The visit will give attendees a firsthand perspective on this sector and career paths within it.