Lay the groundwork for the life you want.
Are you ready to make some changes in your life and need direction, inspiration, and connections? Could you use some help in moving forward? This interactive short course is for you!
Jump Start to What’s Next lays the groundwork for the life you want. It’s a six-week sprint, a deep dive to get you started.
Through thought-provoking readings, reflective exercises, and opportunities to process your thoughts with others, you'll gain insight and structure to launch your journey. We will tap the power of a learning community to help you gain clarity, inspiration, and community as you plan your next move, whether it’s a career pivot or a new life direction.
Course Outcomes
The curriculum for Jump Start to What’s Next offers a foundation for getting started. With curated readings, exercises, and discussions, you will come away with a roadmap for moving forward. At the end of this course, you can expect:
- greater understanding of the process of change and transformation.
- knowledge of the phases and mindsets that characterize successful midlife transitions.
- a plan for exploring possibilities through action.
- strategies to keep your momentum going.
- an opportunity to leverage peers and resources to spark ideas and joy in your career and life.
Course Dates and Times
This course runs from Tuesday, May 6 to Thursday, June 12, 2025.
You will meet two days a week, Tuesdays, 5–8 p.m. in person (5–6 networking, 6–8 class) and Thursdays, 6–7 virtually via Zoom.
In-person meetings: May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, and 10.
Virtual meetings: May 8, 15, 22, 29, June 5, and 12.
Course Format
This six-week course blends elements of asynchronous and synchronous components. Participants will complete readings, videos, and reflection exercises on topics outside of class. In-person class time will provide guided group facilitation to process ideas and gain feedback from the instructor and others in the course.
Each week participants will:
- attend one facilitated group discussion session (120 minutes, with a 60-minute networking meeting beforehand), during which participants will apply what is learned to their own situation.
- attend one 60-minute Zoom meeting in which participants will learn from inspiring people who have made career and life shifts.
- complete two hours of independent reading or assignments.
The course includes a total of 30 hours of engagement over the six weeks and offers 3.0 CEUs from the University of Minnesota College of Continuing and Professional Studies.