Apply to be a Jumpstart Leader!

The Jumpstart Program provides an opportunity for new and transfer students to transition into college and get acquainted with peers before the semester begins. First-Year students may apply to take part in one of fourteen specially designed programs that will help them prepare for the Ithaca College experience. Each program has a different focus, and selected participants will take part in activities and exercises centered on themes.

Current IC students have the opportunity to serve as Jumpstart Leaders in one of the fourteen programs happening in August. Jumpstart Leaders participate in a specific Jumpstart program as a peer leader and are a valuable source of information and advice as students begin their college experience. All Jumpstart Leaders are expected to support and welcome all new students in the program to help foster a sense of belonging during the program and after.

Any current student can apply to be a leader, past participation in the Jumpstart program is helpful but not required. If selected, you would be able to move in to your residence hall room early, meals will be provided during the Jumpstart program, and dining halls will be open for students with meal plans for the week prior to classes starting. Plus, the Jumpstart swag makes it all worthwhile! 

Six students setting up a check-in table.

Important dates for the 2025 Jumpstart Program:

  • Leader applications open on Monday, March 17 and are due on Monday, March 31. 
  • All applicants are notified of their selection status on April 11. Check your @ithaca.edu email on this date for your notification.
  • Jumpstart Leaders can move in to their residence hall rooms on Sunday, August 17.
  • Training for all Jumpstart Leaders will take place on Sunday, August 17 from 4-8pm.
  • The Jumpstart Program runs August 18-19, 2025. 

The Jumpstart Leader position is a volunteer, peer mentor position. Although leaders do not receive a monetary stipend, they will receive valuable leadership skill development, lasting connections with their peers and the first-year students in their small group, meals during the entirety of the program, and free Jumpstart swag.

Click here to fill out the application, starting March 17!

Contact the OSE for more information

There are specific program coordinators for each Jumpstart program who work in a variety of campus departments. The overall program is coordinated through the Office of Student Engagement, so you can reach out to OSE first with your questions, and we can redirect you to a specific person if necessary.

607-274-3222