The UCLA Epicenter addresses employers’ concern about the rising number of unprepared and underqualified graduates entering the workforce.
Why the UCLA Epicenter was Established
Research reveals that many new graduates enter the workforce ill-equipped, often lacking key skills including:
Adaptability in unstructured environments
Critical thinking
Adequate problem solving
This leaves employers skeptical about hiring new college graduates, viewing them as unprepared for the workforce, unable to manage their workload, and lacking professionalism. Statistics show that 75% of companies reported some or all of the college graduates they hired this year did not meet expectations. Additionally, 6 in 10 companies fired at least one hire from this group.
Our Mission
“Augment students’ academic curriculum with project-based and experiential learning programs in collaboration with industry partners.”
The UCLA Epicenter empowers students to excel by complementing classroom learning with hands-on work experiences, enabling a smooth transition to professional success. We equip students for the work force through innovation challenges, certifications, and applied projects/internships.
At the Epicenter, we connect leading organizations, such as Amazon Web Services and Harmon International, with talented and dedicated students. These partnerships provide benefits including staff augmentation, tailed talent development, and innovative consumer insights.
Our Values
UCLA Epicenter values all undergraduates, graduates. All programs and resources are available to all UCLA undergrad and grad students.
Education
The Epicenter provides students with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to industry-level projects, enabling them to gain practical experience in their chosen fields. Students engage in hands-on learning, both on campus and beyond, contributing to their comprehensive educational experience.
Research
The Epicenter empowers students to independently design and implement solutions to industry problems. Guided by expert mentors, this hands-on approach encourages students to take ownership of their projects, fostering a sense of autonomy, which cultivates a diverse and enriching educational experience.
Service
The Epicenter’s internships and programs embark on projects that directly benefit the surrounding LA community. Reflecting UCLA’s mission of civic engagement, students give back by creating technological and financial solutions that positively impact and improve the lifestyle of the community around them.
Program Director
Raffi Simonian, MBA
Bruin story since ’85
Become a Friend of the Epicenter
Your contribution helps enhance student support, bring new programs and challenges to life to prepare our students for the industry, and sustain the growth of the UCLA Epicenter.