Montana State University's College of Business is once again seeking local and regional businesses willing to offer management students practical business experience in return for business research, issue analysis or operational advice.

The students will be enrolled in MGMT 475, Management Practicum taught and facilitated by Myleen Leary, a new addition to the College of Business faculty. She is joining the COB from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), where she has been an assistant professor of management since January 2004.

This senior-level course has been a success for more than 15 years. The program is beneficial for both the students and the businesses involved. Students are able to apply business theory and the tools they have developed in a practical business setting. Their work is closely monitored and expected to be of the highest quality. On the flip side, participating businesses from all over the state receive valuable problem-solving assistance at no cost.

During the four-month course, the students will help manage special consulting projects for the selected businesses. In the past, projects have included developing business or marketing plans, identifying business improvement opportunities and providing possible solutions to specific problem areas, working with either a portion of the organization or the entire business. Prior areas of focus have included market and competition analysis, organization and operations, financial plan development, and assisting with human resources and customer service issues. For profit and not-for-profit businesses and service organizations are encouraged to participate in the program.

The MSU College of Business is currently accepting applications from local and regional businesses interested in participating in the course. The semester begins August 27 and ends December 14. For more information or to request an application, contact Myleen Leary at 994-6203, or e-mail her at myleen.leary@montana.edu.