WHY SAI?

Come Lead With Us

At Student Agencies, managers gain practical skills and real-world experience unmatched by any kind of learning done in the classroom. Master financial accounting by analyzing variance reports, creating strategic budgets, and presenting your business' financial performance directly to the Board of Directors. Go beyond textbook marketing by actively planning, implementing, and evaluating impactful city-wide promotion initiatives. Launching new products or services equips our managers with the firsthand knowledge needed to craft effective business plans. These experiences have set our managers apart in future job interviews and lay a solid foundation for their professional careers.

Drive Innovation Together

The high energy atmosphere of SAI is the result of our inherent drive to do more. We don't wait for opportunity to arise, we create it. Our managers embody strategic vision, taking ownership of their businesses to drive meaningful growth. Each manager is given a business as a clean slate, it is up to them to show off their strategic capabilities to drive growth. We shun stagnation and use our creativity to constantly move forward. If you’re passionate about pushing boundaries and pursuing excellence, join us and transform your creative potential into tangible success.

Become Part of Our Legacy

Founded in 1894 by Seth Higby, Student Agencies stands as America's oldest independent student-run corporation. What started as a simple laundry service to finance one student's education has evolved into an organization employing over 300 Cornell undergraduates annually. Our successful business model, serving the Greater Tompkins County community, has inspired similar ventures at other Ivy League institutions. Join Cornell’s original start-up and leave your mark on a legacy that continues to inspire. 

Join Our Community

Student Agencies isn't just a place where we work; it is a place where lasting friendships are formed. Our managers bond through shared experiences, from boating excursions on Cayuga Lake to exploring the beauty of upstate New York, or simply enjoying weekends together. If you’re looking for a supportive environment that balances professional growth with memorable social connections, Student Agencies is the place for you.

AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES WITH AUTHENTIC PEOPLE

Real Ideas
At SAI, you have the freedom to use your creativity and innovation, leading your business with your own unique direction.

Real People
Our SAI team is like family. You can find our community within and outside of the workplace, extending beyond the larger Cornell network.

Real Businesses
Come gain a unique business experience where we collectively manage 6 business agencies, hire over 300 students, and generate over $2.5 million in revenue annually.

Real Money
Unlike other pre-professional organizations, we offer competitive wages and flexible hours. With over $500,000 paid annually to students, SAI is the second-largest student employer in the Ithaca area—second only to Cornell University. If you're ready to take your leadership, entrepreneurship, and business acumen to the next level, this is your chance.

Where We Are Now

We have an expansive network of successful alumni, who remain interested in the welfare and future of SAI. Though our alumni are leaders in a variety of different fields, one thing they all agree upon is that SAI was the most valuable part of their experience as Cornellians. After their time at SAI, our managers use this network as a launchpad for their careers.