- Explore degree programs and career possibilities across the business industry
- Gain insight into the social and academic life of college students at OHIO University
- Build community with other students in the program
- Introduce participants to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Gain a deep understanding of the SDGs and potential applications in business
- Develop creative problem-solving skills, critical problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills
- Learn the basics of business model development and pitching
- Create innovative solutions to real-world challenges, fostering a sense of agency and social responsibility
J'COB College Experience Summer Program
July 18 - 25, 2026
J'COB College Experience Summer Program
The J’COB College Experience Summer Program at ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ’s College of Business is a transformative, week-long residential opportunity for rising high school seniors. Designed to inspire the next generation of business leaders, this competitive program combines experiential learning, teamwork, and campus immersion.
J’COB stands for Junior Executives in the College of Business and represents a five-year journey through the College of Business. The summer program serves as YEAR ZERO, giving students an early introduction to college life, leadership development, and creative problem-solving. For those who choose to attend ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ, J’COB continues with unique programming and support across their four undergraduate years, ensuring a transformative university experience that prepares them to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
Throughout the summer program, students are introduced to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and develop creative problem-solving skills that prepare them to tackle complex global issues. The program culminates in a high-energy hackathon, where participants present innovative business solutions to real-world challenges before a panel of faculty, industry professionals, and community leaders.
In addition to academic workshops and team challenges, students experience life at ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ by living on campus, networking with professors and professionals, and connecting with peers from across the region. J’COB equips participants with the skills, confidence, and insights needed to make informed decisions about their future academic studies and career pathways in business, sports management, or entrepreneurship.
By the end of the program, students leave with more than memories—they gain tools to lead, create, and make a difference in their communities and beyond.
For more information, email Nicole Antoinette Smith, Program Director.
Dates: July 18 - 25, 2026 (Summer 2026)
Location: College of Business Muck Annex, 71 Court St, Athens, Ohio
Housing information: On-campus residence hall accommodations provided (double occupancy)
Meals: Included
Transportation: Not Included. The is available for students coming from the Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus areas
Information Sessions
You can register to attend an information session with the program director to learn more about the summer program.
- Wednesday, March 11, 2026 | 7 pm – 8 pm EST
- Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 7 pm – 8 pm EST
- Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | 7 pm – 8 pm EST
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Program Outcomes
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Application Requirements
- Rising high school seniors (i.e., current high school juniors)
- Complete online application
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
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Application Process
- Application Opens: March 1, 2026
- Application Closes: March 31, 2026*
*Application closes at 11:59 pm EST on Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Schedule
| Day | Date | Agenda |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday | 07/18/26 | Travel to ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ - Check-in |
| Sunday | 07/19/26 | Team Building |
| Monday | 07/20/26 | Creative Problem Solving (CPS) Training |
| Tuesday | 07/21/26 | Interactive Workshops with University Professors |
| Wednesday | 07/22/26 | Hackathon Kick-Off |
| Thursday | 07/23/26 | Field Day in Columbus, OH |
| Friday | 07/24/26 | Hackathon Presentations Closing Ceremony |
| Saturday | 07/25/26 | Check-out - Travel home |
Core Principles
The J'COB (formerly Junior Executives Pre-Business Program) College Experience Summer Program demonstrates core principles of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) standards, which are:
Strategic Management and Innovation
The program emphasizes introducing students to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), encouraging students to think about business solutions with a global and social impact, and aligning with AACSB's emphasis on responsible leadership and strategic management.
Ethical Leadership
The program focuses on building an inclusive community by targeting underrepresented communities and fostering social responsibility through addressing real-world challenges. This aligns with AACSB's focus on ethical leadership and societal impact.
Teaching and Learning Effectiveness
The program's hackathon activity encourages creative problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills, aligning with AACSB's emphasis on innovative and effective teaching methods.
Student Learning
The program provides exposure to different business fields, career possibilities, and college life, promoting student learning and career exploration, which aligns with AACSB's standards.
Engagement
The program fosters engagement by offering a residential experience, building community, and providing opportunities for interaction with faculty and peers, aligning with AACSB's emphasis on student engagement and professional development.