Life at the Albright Entrepreneurs Village

The Albright Entrepreneurs Village (AEV), located on NC State’s Centennial Campus, is a dynamic living and learning community designed for student entrepreneurs. Open to sophomores and above, AEV offers a unique environment where students can engage with entrepreneurship on and off campus.

Residents thrive in a supportive community that encourages them to explore their passions. The village provides access to specialized programming, including mentorship, networking events, trips and regular interactions with alumni and startup founders. By joining a network of like-minded peers and mentors, students gain valuable opportunities to participate in competitions and social events that foster entrepreneurial growth in an engaging and collaborative setting.

AEV is more than a residence hall, it’s a community built to support student entrepreneurs. But joining is just the first step. As AEV Director Ahmed Ali explains, “The question we are challenged with is how we can ensure students who apply for the village are prepared to maximize their experience here and take full advantage of the opportunities a living and learning village presents them with.”

This mindset drives AEV’s mission, encouraging students to engage fully with mentorship, networking and hands-on learning. Those who take the initiative often find the experience transformative, shaping their growth as entrepreneurs and professionals alike.

What Residents Say About Life at AEV

AEV residents come from wide-ranging backgrounds, but share a common goal—immersing themselves in an entrepreneurial community that fosters growth and innovation. When asked about their experiences, residents highlighted the unique opportunities and connections that make AEV a one-of-a-kind living and learning environment.

Pranav Rajagopal, a sophomore studying business administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship, shared, “My overall experience has been largely positive. AEV is a great space to interact with people and attend unique events, which has helped me grow as an up-and-coming entrepreneur.”

Sofia Restrepo, a sophomore studying statistics, emphasized the learning opportunities that drew her to the village, saying, “I wanted to live in AEV primarily for the chance to learn more about entrepreneurship and meet people with the same interests.”

In talking with these students, there is a strong sense of community, valuable resources and transformative experiences that make AEV more than just a place to live, it’s a launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools, mentorship and support needed to thrive.

Beyond the Apartment: What Makes AEV Unique?

AEV is located in Innovation Hall in Wolf Ridge Apartments on Centennial Campus, offering a vibrant community for entrepreneurial-minded students. Wolf Ridge and Innovation Hall provide many wonderful amenities, including apartment-style dorms that include a kitchen and living room.

AEV offers far more than just a place to live, it provides a dynamic environment rich with opportunities for students to grow both personally and professionally. Priya Chilukuri, a senior studying business administration with a concentration in IT & analytics, reflected on the unique access AEV provides, saying, “I enjoy the community and access to innovation and entrepreneurship events.” Restrepo highlighted the professional advantages, explaining, “The network of people and the close relationship with IE events can help further professional and entrepreneurial goals.”

With access to workshops, mentorship and real-world entrepreneurial experiences, AEV provides an environment where students can take their ideas to the next level.

Favorite AEV Traditions and Events

AEV residents cherish the traditions and events that make the community special. Whether it’s mentorship meetups, guest speakers or exclusive trips, these experiences create lasting memories and valuable connections. Chilukuri shared, “My favorite event is the mentor meetups because they are a good way to network.” Eric Pham, a sophomore studying electrical and computer engineering, appreciated the hands-on experiences gained from AEV excursions, stating, “My favorite AEV event is any of the field trips because I get to explore new places while learning how they connect with entrepreneurship.”

Building Connections at AEV

One of the biggest advantages of living at AEV is the ability to build meaningful relationships with fellow students and professionals in the entrepreneurial space. Chilukuri explained, “I’ve been able to meet people also interested in entrepreneurship. There have been a ton of events where I get to meet new people. There are also a lot of networking opportunities.” Chinasa Njoku, a sophomore studying electrical engineering, emphasized how AEV fosters an environment of support and collaboration, saying, “It has allowed me to meet new people and get close to them because of proximity. It has also allowed me to help others and receive help from others for certain things.”

Sydney Russell, residential learning graduate assistant for AEV, highlighted how the village brings together students from various backgrounds and disciplines, helping them develop essential collaboration skills. “The Albright Entrepreneurs Village draws students from a wide-ranging array of majors, backgrounds and professional interests. It’s been awesome to see students build connections and work effectively with peers they wouldn’t meet otherwise. I think the way AEV encourages students to build relationships with students who are different from them is one way the Village prepares students for the ‘real world.’ Having experience working with a variety of people is a skill set that sets AEV villagers apart from the rest.”

By fostering a community where students can exchange ideas, collaborate on projects and support one another, AEV helps residents expand their networks in ways that extend far beyond their time at NC State.

Developing an entrepreneurial mindset

Even for those who don’t plan to start a business right away, AEV helps students develop valuable skills that will benefit them in any career. Chilukuri shared, “It has helped me think more like an entrepreneur and be more innovative. It’s also helped me figure out what I want to do in my career.” Restrepo noted that while they might not be ready to launch a business yet, AEV has given them the foundation to do so in the future, stating, “I don’t think I’m at a point right now where I’m ready to start a business, but I think it has helped me develop my network and connected me to the resources I will need once I’m ready.”

Living in AEV challenges students to think creatively, take initiative and embrace opportunities for growth, skills that are valuable no matter their future path.

Advice for Future AEV residents

For those considering AEV, current residents emphasize one key piece of advice: take full advantage of the opportunities available. Here’s what they had to say:

• “I would say they should go to every event and put themselves out there.”
• “Attend events—that’s where you’re going to meet more people.”
• “Give the events a fair shot and use your resources.”
• “Ask a lot of questions and take advantage of the resources AEV gives you. Also, connect with AEV people!”
• “Truly join even if you have the slightest interest in innovation, new ventures, startups, and entrepreneurship. Ask questions, engage in opportunities, and think about how you can innovate. Also, attend the two events per month—you’ll get the most out of your experience by staying involved.”

Ultimately, those who actively participate in the AEV community and make the most of its resources will gain the most from their experience.

Whether you want to learn more about the village or ask questions about the application process, make sure to stay informed and engaged with the AEV community.