Business Students Get a Head Start on Their UToledo Experience with the JumpStart Program
August 25, 2022 | John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation News
By John Anderson III
From Sunday, Aug. 21 to Wednesday, Aug. 24, a select group of 18 incoming freshmen launched their UToledo career with the help of the JumpStart Program.
This free four-day program is designed to provide incoming John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation majors with a variety of activities focused on enhancing their academic and social skills.
The primary goal of the JumpStart Program is to help new students adapt to college life and gain a better understanding of what it means to be a successful Business Rocket.
Participants met fellow first-year students while experiencing a wide range of programming presented by UToledo faculty, staff, alumni and students, in addition to members of the greater Toledo community.
“JumpStart is a phenomenal four days. It really offers a bit of everything,” said Teresa Keefe, Distinguished University Lecturer of information operations and technology management and coordinator of the JumpStart Program.
“My goal was to connect students with the resources within the college, the campus and the community to help them navigate their freshman year and beyond. This year’s group of students was so impressive. Their engagement, enthusiasm and gratitude were a joy to see."
The jam-packed agenda for the week included a tour and panel discussion at Owens Corning World Headquarters, a tour and networking event at Dana Incorporated’s Headquarters, a Toledo Mud Hens game, a Toledo Zoo outing, a mock lecture and more.
Students also participated in a DISC assessment, which is a personalized behavior profile that is designed to raise self-awareness, improve teamwork and reduce conflict.
Quite literally putting “jumpstart” in the JumpStart program, participants had the option to move into their residence hall early on Sunday, Aug. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The program was also catered, providing students with breakfast, lunch and dinner from restaurants such as Chick-Fil-A, City Barbeque, The Stubborn Brother Pizza Bar, Home Slice Pizza and UToledo’s Student Union.
The JumpStart Program was created in 1997 and was made possible by a gift from John and Lillian Neff.
To be considered for participation in the JumpStart Program, applicants must have a high school Grade Point Average of at least 2.4. Students who have completed more than 30 credit hours through College Credit Plus or Advanced Placement are not eligible to participate.