Kelley Kickstart, held on the Indiana University Bloomington campus, is an immersive program in August designed to equip first-year business students with the essential skills, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive in their first year at the Kelley School of Business.
Kelley Kickstart is more than just an introduction to Kelley and college life—it's an opportunity to build confidence, establish meaningful connections, and set the stage for long-term success. Whether you want to sharpen your professional skills, expand your network, or gain insights into your future career, Kelley Kickstart is the perfect IU first-year experience to begin your journey at Kelley.
Dates: August 14 to 17
Location: IU Bloomington
Cost: $249
After moving in early to your residence hall, you’ll engage in a series of activities on campus that provide a strong foundation for academic and professional success. You will have the opportunity to:
K-Team leaders are a diverse group of experienced Kelley students. They’re pursuing a variety of majors and are excited to welcome you to the Kelley family. You’ll join randomly selected peers to form a group led by two K-Team leaders. They’ll join you during your Kelley Kickstart activities to help you make the most of the experiences. They’ll also lead you in small group conversations on topics that will ease your transition to college. Together with Kelley staff, they’ll offer three panels with advice on:
“I joined the Kickstart family before my sophomore year at IU and had an incredible experience. From meeting new students to working closely with my peers, the program helped me gain confidence in myself as a leader and as a Kelley student. Kickstart offers engaging activities that create a smooth and exciting transition into IU and the Kelley School of Business.”
Kayla SchultzActivities Coordinator
“As a former camper and K-Team leader for Kelley Kickstart, I find it difficult to fully capture the impact of this experience. As an out-of-state student, Kelley Kickstart connected me with like-minded peers, making the transition to college seamless and more enjoyable. Through the program, I made lifelong friends and mentors who continue to shape my Kelley experience. It provided a foundation for my journey at the Kelley School of Business, and I am grateful for the community it built.”
Heather GangiLogistics Coordinator
“From attending Camp Kelley B-Town as a camper to redesigning the program into Kelley Kickstart as the 2025 activities coordinator, this program has been the heart of my time at Kelley. It has given me a strong network of friends and a sense of belonging in Kelley as I continue to learn and grow, even as an upperclassman. As I’ve watched this program evolve, I’ve had the chance to directly impact incoming students and their experiences at Kelley. I’ve seen students in the program build strong friendships, join organizations that challenge them, and continue to positively impact those around them. Kelley Kickstart is the perfect program to help students succeed and find their place at Kelley.”
Vasi SendelweckTraining Coordinator
Yes, we plan to accept around 100 students.
Students should monitor their IU (username@iu.edu) email account as updates will be sent to that email. Students should hear back around the end of June or early July.
You will stay in the campus residence hall and room assigned to you for the 2026–27 academic year. Some meals are provided by the Kelley School. You may also take advantage of your meal plan at a variety of IU dining locations.
As a Kelley Kickstart participant, you'll move into your room for the school year on Friday, August 14. This is an early move-in date for the Bloomington campus. We will take care of the associated cost with it. Please contact IU Residential Programs and Services. More information to come at a later date.
You’ll meet incoming Kelley classmates from all over the world; build relationships with students, faculty, and staff; and learn about resources and opportunities available to you at Kelley and IU. You’ll be ready to apply for the competitive student clubs and organizations on Day 1.
Choose casual dress for warm weather and professional development. Wear comfortable walking shoes because you have a lot to see and do.
No. JLLC Orientation conflicts with Kelley Kickstart, so it is not possible to participate in both.
No. Intensive Freshman Seminar runs through mid-August and conflicts with the Kelley Kickstart schedule.
There are no refunds for Kelley Kickstart once your payment is complete. If the Kelley School of Business or Indiana University cancels Kelley Kickstart for any reason, you will be refunded. If you are no longer planning to attend Kelley Kickstart, please contact us at ksengage@iu.edu so that a student on the waitlist can attend.
Please contact the Kelley Undergraduate Program at ksengage@iu.edu or Dedric Dennist Jr. with your questions.
Reach out to Assistant Director of Student Life Dedric Dennist Jr. with your questions.
Application will open May 11. Apply for Kelley Kickstart by 10 a.m. on June 15.