Each summer, Ohio University (OU) College of Business hosts the J’COB College Experience Summer Program, a transformative weeklong residential program designed to equip rising high school seniors with the skills and insights necessary to become global business leaders through two distinct tracks: General Business and Sport Management.
Nicole Antoinette Smith, associate professor of instruction in analytics and information systems and the program’s director, emphasized that J’COB is more than a typical summer camp. “It’s the first step in a five-year journey we’ve designed to foster creative leadership and innovation,” Smith said in a statement. “We start by igniting that spark of creativity in high school and continue to nurture it through their college years with ongoing programs and support.”
Formerly known as the Junior Executives Pre-Business Program, J’COB immerses participants in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fosters creative problem-solving abilities. The experience culminates in a hackathon where students develop innovative business solutions addressing real-world challenges aligned with the SDGs.
A unique aspect of J’COB, the hackathon allows participants to collaborate to solve pressing realworld issues using critical thinking and creativity while honing their group work and interpersonal communication skills. In a recent session, students tackled hunger and food insecurity by developing various products and services aimed at combating these challenges. The week also included field trips to organizations such as PNC Bank and Palmer-Donavin, an area construction material wholesaler, providing students with firsthand insights into the business world.
The impact extends beyond its high school participants. J’COB counselors, often current OU students, play a crucial role in facilitating sessions and guiding activities. Kole Clay, a senior who is double majoring in marketing and business management and strategic leadership, has served as a counselor for two years. “You’re able to witness the students grow and adapt exceptionally to a college setting in a short period,” Clay said. “Being a counselor is a massive responsibility because you reflect your establishment as you care for the students.”
For many participants, J’COB serves as a pivotal experience in their educational journey. As the June 2025 session approaches, the program continues to stand as a testament to OU’s commitment to developing the next generation of business leaders.
