“Succeeding is inevitable for me. Success is my reality.”
2025 Jump Start College Experience
Here's everything you need to know about our
2025 Jump Start Programming
Replay Available: Parent Information Session
Fall Tour Dates: November 4 - 8, 2025
Utilize the slide deck for planning purposes
The 2025 Jump Start College Experience, for high school students
The Jump Start College Experience is more than just a college tour—it’s a year-round program designed to prepare high school students across Franklin County for college, career, and life success. We’ve listened to students and families, and we’ve expanded our programming to include college admissions support, ACT prep, career exploration, and leadership development—all while still offering unforgettable HBCU college tours!
Our College Navigation & Career Sessions are open to all High School students, even if they don't intend on going on a tour!
College Tour Admission Requirements
Students interested in attending one of the 2025 Jump Start College Tours must complete at least 2 College Navigation & Career Sessions, at least 1 Teen Socratic Circle plus The Pre-Boarding Brief (Final Parent and Scholar Meeting) before departure.
Teen Socratic Circles
Students interested in attending a Jump Start College Experience must attend at least 1 Teen Socratic Circle.
Campus Vibes & Future Tribes
College 101: Your Path, Your Pick
Eligible for $50 stipend!
Facilitated by: Mrs. Fawn Harris
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Location:
Shepherd Library
850 N. Nelson Road | Meeting Rm. 1
REGISTER
The Transition Toolkit: Body, Mind & Mission
Balancing Wellness While Building What’s Next
Facilitated by: Ms. Latasha Washington
Date: TBA
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: TBA
College & Career Navigation Sessions
Students interested in attending one of the 2025 Jump Start College Tours must complete at least 2 College & Career Navigation Sessions, at least 1 Teen Socratic Circle plus The Pre-Boarding Brief (Final Parent and Scholar Meeting) before departure.
Pathways in Progress
Exploring Careers & Internships with Purpose
Facilitated by: Mr. Jae Denson
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time:
10:30 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:45 AM - 12:45 PM
Location:
Bexley Library Auditorium
2411 E. Main Street | F101
REGISTER
Shifting Ground: Navigating College & Career Paths in a Changing Landscape of Access & Opportunity
Special Session for Parents and Scholars
(Scholars who attend and participate satisfy Teen Socratic Circle and College Navigation Session requirement to attend October tour)
Facilitated by: Dr. Tiffany Polite
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Time:
6:45 PM - Check-In
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
8:30 PM – 9:00 PM - Scholar Meet and Greet/Roommate Selection (Tour participants should attend – see who you know – begin looking for your roommate)
Location:
Ohio Dominican University
1216 Sunbury Road | Sansbury Hall - Colonial Room
(View Map)
REGISTER
I am Focused on a Brilliant Legacy
Designing Impact, Innovation and Influence
Facilitated by: Dr. Nathan Harris
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location:
Otterbein University - Roush Hall -Room 204
27 S. Grove St. Westerville
REGISTER
The Scholar Circle: Rooted & Ready
Career Profile & Assessments -discover the path that fits you best.
Facilitated by: Mr. Duan Witcher
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
12:45 – 1:15 - “The Scholar Circle: Rooted & Ready”
Location:
Otterbein University - Roush Hall -Room 204
27 S. Grove St. Westerville
REGISTER
The Pre-Boarding Brief
Final Parent and Scholar Meeting – Mandatory for Tour Participants
Facilitated by: Alethea Gaddis
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Time:
9:55 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Your College Application
Your Voice, Your Application: Make It Count
Facilitated by: Mrs. Sasheen Phillips
Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Location:
Columbus Main Library
96 S. Grant Avenue | Rm. 3A
REGISTER
Branding Without the Filter:
Leading Authentically in a Digital World
Facilitated by: Nate Jameson
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Location:
Shepard Library
850 N. Nelson Rd. | Room 1
REGISTER
The Testing Edge: ACT & SAT Success Strategies
Tips, tools, and timing — we’ve got you.
Facilitated by: Mrs. Shasheen Phillips
Saturday, November 15, 2025
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Otterbein University - Roush Hall - Room 204
27 S. Grove St. Westerville
REGISTER
Secure the Bag: FAFSA & Financial Aid 101
Your college journey starts with free money — let’s claim it.
Facilitated by: Mrs. Sasheen Phillips
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Time:
9:45 AM - Scholar Check-In
10:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Location:
Columbus Main Library
96 S. Grant Avenue | Rm. 3A
REGISTER
Here's where we're going in 2025
Fall 2025
November 4 - 8, 2025
Why Choose the Jump Start College Experience?
Expanded Programming for 2025
Students have the opportunity to get support in many topics including ollege admissions support, ACT prep, career exploration, and leadership development and more.
Diverse College Exploration
Visit a variety of colleges and universities, each with its own unique charm and academic offerings. Our carefully curated itinerary ensures exposure to a diverse range of educational opportunities.
Expert Guidance
Benefit from expert guidance and insights throughout the tour. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the college selection process and make informed decisions about your future.
Comfortable Travel
Travel in style and comfort on our tour bus, connecting with fellow students who share your aspirations. Enjoy a seamless journey as you discover new campuses and forge lasting connections.
Please remember, Students interested in attending one of the 2025 Jump Start College Tours must complete at least 2 College & Career Navigation Sessions, at least 1 Teen Socratic Circle plus The Pre-Boarding Brief (Final Parent and Scholar Meeting) before departure.
2025 Community Partners
