Handy tips & FAQ

About the Role

Spark is a student organization focused on building entrepreneurial opportunities for USC. We are protective of our culture, values, mission, and members. Key characteristics we look for include kindness, mission-centered thinking, growth mindset, hard work, individual agency, and integrity.

Responsibilities

• Organize and put on entrepreneurial events and resources for the USC community.
• Contribute to fostering a diverse and welcoming entrepreneurial culture at USC.
• Participate in mandatory semesterly retreats and optional trips (e.g., Bay Area).

Requirements

• Must be committed to building entrepreneurial opportunities for USC students.
• Must align with Spark’s culture and values: kindness, mission-centered thinking, growth mindset, hard work, individual agency, and integrity.
• Must be available to participate in club activities, including retreats and events.

Qualifications

• Open to all USC students except seniors and graduate students.
• No prior entrepreneurial experience required, but a passion for fostering entrepreneurial culture is essential.
• Applicants whose goals align more closely with other clubs (e.g., investing with TroyLabs or product experience in Lavalab) may not be the best fit.

Benefits

• No membership dues or fees; costs for retreats or trips may be covered for members who cannot afford them.
• Opportunities to network with companies and learn from events.
• Be part of a mission-driven community working to enhance USC’s entrepreneurial culture.

Additional Notes

• Spark typically accepts 10-12 new Board members each semester.
• Rejections are often due to misaligned goals (e.g., seeking startup acceleration or investment rather than community-building). If your goal is to build entrepreneurial opportunities for USC, you are encouraged to reapply.
• Board members may benefit from initiatives they run, but their primary motivation should be contributing to the Spark community.