New Course Combines Digital Entrepreneurship With Career Readiness for Students

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Peter Hollens, CEO and digital entrepreneur, speaking with UNIV students.

Trevor Francis, with help from the UNIV Program led by Jen Edwards, recently launched a new one-credit-hour course focused on YouTube, digital entrepreneurship and career readiness — giving students a front-row seat to the fast-evolving world of online content creation and creative careers. As part of the course, students had the unique opportunity to learn directly from acclaimed digital entrepreneur and CEO Peter Hollens.

Hollens, whose work has garnered over 3 billion video views across platforms and 9 million followers, joined the class to offer a candid, behind-the-scenes look into the digital creator economy. But as he made clear, his message wasn't about numbers — it was about art, creativity and purpose.

Hollens said that embracing failure — especially in public — can be one of the most powerful growth tools, and encouraged the class to embrace the power of persistence. 

The course, which bridges digital literacy and e-portfolios with career development, reflects the U of A's commitment to preparing students for success in a rapidly changing digital world.

"Expanding digital literacy, entrepreneurship and career readiness opportunities is essential to empowering our students," said Francis, course creator and associate vice provost for student success. "This course is designed to help students see themselves as creators, communicators, innovators and professionals in the digital age."

Hollens, who developed the first university course on YouTube while at Brigham Young University, emphasized the importance of bringing real-world creativity into the classroom. "His energy and honesty made an incredible impression on our students, and they left the conversation feeling empowered to pursue success on their own terms," Francis said.