IC Foot Soldiers

Open to all students across majors and interests who want to learn how to jumpstart into action; gaining the tools they need to do impactful community work and build partnerships on campus and in local communities.

This program offers participants the opportunity to explore the programs and initiatives at Ithaca College they can get involved in as well as various organizations in the city of Ithaca where they can gain meaningful skills and experiences to be change agents. A wide range of interests will be covered from environmental sustainability to accessibility to human rights. Participants will engage campus and local leaders to learn practical advice on activism, civic engagement, sustainability, and community building. Participants will also explore the Ithaca area and regional landmarks. This program ensures that students feel empowered to be leaders that affect social change.

Group of students posing on a sidewalk.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Gain awareness of on-campus and local opportunities and organizations to be involved in community service and social impact;
  • Expand conceptualization of social change opportunities;
  • Identify passion areas and communities of interest;
  • Build community with other students engaging in shared purpose;
  • Discover organizations to volunteer with or intern at;
  • Identify mentors at Ithaca College and in the local community;
  • Acquire foundational knowledge and skills to affect social change.

This program prioritizes fostering a sense of belonging, equipping students with tools for effective leadership and high impact, and providing a platform for meaningful connections that will enhance their personal and professional development.

Program Logistics
  • New students can participate in this Jumpstart program on August 17-18, 2026
  • Jumpstart participants will move into their residence hall rooms on Monday, August 17 between 9:00am - 4:00pm.
  • The program runs from 5:00 to 8:00pm on Monday (includes a welcome BBQ!), approximately 9:00am-6:00pm on Tuesday, with a Jumpstart closing event on Tuesday evening.
  • A program-specfic lunch will be provided for participants of this program on Tuesday, all other meals will be covered by your IC meal plan in the dining hall. Transportation and all program materials are provided for this program.
  • Participants will be engaged in fun activities; please for the weather and wear shoes that will allow you to walk more than a mile and be on your feet for several hours throughout the day.
  • There is no charge for this program.