At Pool College of Business in North Carolina, students are actively shaping the local economy, rather than simply learning about business. Consult with Community (CYC), a student-led nonprofit organization, to provide pro bono consulting services to small businesses and nonprofits across Raleigh.
We spoke with Nitin Chitrala, a senior majoring in aerospace engineering and economics and president of CYC, to learn more about the organization’s impact, evolution and future.
Consulting about community missions is simple yet powerful. Equipped with strategic solutions to promote sustainable growth for resource-lacking SMEs. “Our diverse student teams work on projects that span marketing, financial planning, technical engineering and overall business strategy,” says Chitrala. “It’s all about having a concrete impact on local businesses that need it the most.”
Founded nationwide in Berkeley, California in 2013, CYC came to North Carolina in 2016 when students Hunter Davis and Tanner Purvis recognized the needs within the Raleigh community. Initially, they aimed to support other student organizations, but their vision quickly expanded to support small businesses.
What began as a small team of 25 members working on four consulting projects per semester has evolved into an established program with 75 members gaining record eight engagements this semester. “Initially, our leadership team went door-to-door and tried to convince business owners to work with us,” Chitrala recalls. “The business owners are here now.”
Beyond the numbers, CYC has expanded its consulting expertise. What once focused primarily on business strategy has grown to include technical services such as website development, app creation, and full-scale engineering design. The organization undertakes major projects with the City of Raleigh, showing the depth and quality of its student-led consulting work.
CYC events, particularly the annual Small Business Fair, play an important role in student development and campus engagement. Chitrala highlights four key areas where these initiatives make a difference.
Create lasting impact: The success of events like Small Business Fair highlights the impact that student organizations can have. It reminds us that our work goes far beyond the classroom,” says Chitrala. “Dedication, collaboration and a clear mission allow students to drive change in reality. It supports local businesses, bridges communities, and empowers entrepreneurs who may not have the resources to thrive.”
Practical Skill Development: Events and consulting engagement provide students with a real-world vocabulary experience in project management, problem-solving communication and leadership. By working with local businesses, students apply their education to real-world business challenges and improve their problem-solving and analytical skills.
Community Engagement: CYC fills the gap between the NC and the Greater Raleigh community. Small Business Fair highlights local entrepreneurs, supports resource-lack businesses, and strengthens relationships between students and the broader community across campus.
Leadership Development: Through event planning, mentorship programs, and CYC’s empowerment culture, students take on the role of leadership that challenges them to think strategically, collaborate effectively, and manage complex projects from start to finish.
“We foster an open environment where no one is afraid to speak their minds.”
CYC’s success is driven by a dedicated leadership team. “Without my incredible leadership team, CYC can’t do anything,” emphasizes Chitrala. “A big cry to Jacob’s friends, Tia Bulmi, Brock Lopez, Keller Thomas and Gavin Johnson. They are the real rock stars who bring us closer to our vision every day.”
The team operates in a culture of shared vision and open communication, ensuring that members can effectively execute their roles. “Everyone has acquired our mission. We foster an open environment where no one is afraid to speak their hearts,” says Chitrala. “This allows us to trust each other, work efficiently and have meaningful influences.”
Going forward, CYC is committed to sustainable growth. “We are now building a strong organizational structure so that we can support more small businesses and nonprofits in the future,” explains Chitrala.
Expanding the scope of consulting services is an important focus, with plans to tackle more ambitious projects and establish new partnerships. “We’re expanding our work to areas such as life sciences and health consulting, and taking on large projects with government agencies like the city of Raleigh,” he says. “Diversifying engagement allows us to continue to challenge ourselves and push the boundaries of what we can achieve.”
Through continued growth and impact, we consult with our community to illustrate ways that students can drive real change. As Chitrala puts it, “Our job is more than consulting. It’s about empowering the business, enhancing the community, and providing students with a hands-on experience to prepare them for the future.” For more information on how to consult with the community and how to participate, visit our website or follow us on social media.
