This May, 12 University of Michigan students traveled from Ann Arbor to San Francisco for a week of networking with 21 University of Michigan Alumni.
The Silicon Valley Experience is more than just a trip — it’s a fully funded, high-impact learning opportunity that immerses current sophomores, juniors, and returning graduate students in the apex of global innovation. Students are free to focus entirely on learning, exploring, and dreaming big in San Francisco.
Over the week, participants connected with U-M alumni, including startup founders, CEOs, venture capitalists, and tech executives, who are shaping the future of Silicon Valley and beyond. Representatives from companies such as Jennifer Temple from Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Noah Gross from Scale Venture Partners, Gary Liu from Upstart, and more led exclusive sessions offering more than professional advice; they sparked new ideas, created lasting mentorships, and opened doors that many students never imagined possible.
“Hearing from founders who were once in our shoes emphasized the power of taking initiative, following through, and giving back. I’ve already begun applying those lessons to my new venture, connecting U-M students with alumni mentors for recruiting support. I loved getting to know such driven, thoughtful peers. We inspired each other every step of the way, and I’m so grateful to ZLI for bringing us together!”
“What stood out most was the vulnerability and candor from Michigan alumni who shared their real journeys: the pivots, the patience, and the power of staying curious. This trek reminded me that success isn’t linear, and that clarity comes through action, a message I’ll carry into every step of my entrepreneurial path.”
From private office visits and personal tours to happy hour chats, the Silicon Valley Experience gave students a deep, inside look at what it takes to launch and lead in the world’s most dynamic startup ecosystem.