Outside the rigorous lessons taught in lecture-style classrooms, and its own in-building Chick-fil-A, the Jerry S. Rawls College of Business offers nearly 30 business specific student organizations. More than extracurriculars, these organizations are vibrant hubs for leadership development, practical learning, and community building. Through student-led events and ongoing initiatives, these groups are a part of the college’s mission to shape future business leaders who are confident, connected, and prepared for the evolving business landscape after graduation.
From major focused groups to collegewide leadership councils, student organizations matter at the Rawls College because they offer opportunities in mentoring, networking, service, and real-world application. This is important, because participation in these groups develops skills that employers prize such as leadership, collaboration, communication, project management, and, often, specialized knowledge. They also offer chances to reflect on values, build community, and give back – whether through service, mentoring, or outreach.
Beyond the Syllabus: Student Organizations Building Tomorrow’s Business Leaders
One example of real-world learning and community building offered by student organizations is the Rawls Marketplace. In March 2025, the college hosted its first Rawls Marketplace, a student organization run event featuring 14 student businesses selling items including vintage clothing, shoes, air fresheners, golf apparel, floral arrangements, and more. Spearheaded by student organization leaders from the Raider Entrepreneurship Club (REC) and the college’s Scovell Business Leadership Program, in partnership with the Rawls College’s Alderson & Griffin Center for Family Business & Entrepreneurship, the students helped plan logistics, marketing, vendor selection, and operations. The event provided a hands-on learning opportunity for managing the many moving parts of running a business: inventory, costs, pricing goods, customer service, and sales management.
Don’t miss your chance to explore Rawls College Student Organizations at Rawls Day!
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Wednesday, Sept. 17 | Rawls College Courtyard
Student Voices: Learning, Confidence & Networks
In a story about The Marketplace, senior management student Kyle Weber, who helped found REC in November 2024, says the event was exactly what he wanted their new organization to be involved with since its mission is to connect young entrepreneurs with one another and help them grow as a community.
A huge success in terms of planning, execution, and turnout for the student organizations’ first-ever Rawls Marketplace, the event was also a huge success for the vendors. Among the 14 student businesses who participated, sales nearly totaled $10,000. These kinds of student organization experiences build confidence and help students clarify their career interests. They also foster relationships with faculty, alumni, and business partners — assets that often propel opportunities like internships, jobs, or even startup pursuits.
Looking Ahead: Powering Student Success
Throughout the academic year, student organizations provide opportunities for business students to:
- Hear from alumni as guest speakers and professionals across industries as panelists
- Network with alumni, connect with mentors in business, and talk with recruiters
- Serve through outreach projects and community engagement such as
- Collaborate between major-specific and college-wide organizations to maximize reach
Getting Involved: Turning Business Majors Into Leaders
A great way to explore the Rawls College student organizations is at the annual Rawls Day. Student organizations will have tables and representatives there to share everything about their mission, what they offer, and how to become a member!
Rawls Day – Find Your Business Student Organization!
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 17
Rawls College Courtyard
For a full list of Rawls College student organizations and what they offer, visit
Student Organizations.
Contact:
Questions about student organizations? Contact the Rawls Experience Hub!
Email: ba_undergrad@ttu.edu
Phone: 806.742.3171
Office: BA 145