Support our New Start Students!

The 33rd Annual New Start Conference!

For Summer 2025, our New Start students will engage in conversations to expand their knowledge as they introduce themselves to research and presentation skills at the university.

The New Start Summer Program provides an opportunity for incoming first-year students to take classes, work with peer leaders, and engage in programs to support their UA transition. In our two-day New Start Conference, students present research around the theme of the summer. This summer, the students will dive deep into the content of their Topics in Leadership class with the coordinated support of a full-time staff member from the Thrive Center. Participants will engage in scholarly sources, reflect on their identities and experiences, and craft a presentation centered around a common theme.

Theme for Summer 2025

The theme for the New Start Conference is "Success in Transitions." As students enter college and embark on their next steps, change will be one of the main constants. The transition from high school to college is a journey of self-discovery and growth. These truths transcend college transitions and are part of new beginnings throughout their academic and personal journeys. Recognizing the dynamic aspects of change and transitions, this conference will allow students to dive deeply into a topic related to a transition and navigating new environments. Attendees will have the opportunity to attend other sessions and gain valuable insights into possible future endeavors. Potential topics include graduate school, careers, adulting, college and more. Topics will be interwoven with intricacies such as self-discovery, resilience and community-building, providing valuable insights into the mutual dependency of personal identity and transitions. Overall, this conference seeks to empower students to navigate the complexities of change, fostering a sense of belonging and self-assurance as they embark on their future endeavors.

What is your role?  

Your support will provide scholarships to the winning conference presenters to be awarded for Fall 2025! These scholarships can help students supplement tuition awards or need-based aid, pay for books or go toward food and other cost of living expenses. Awards are given for the top presentations based on their research, creativity and overall presentation. Can we count on you to make a gift to support New Start students' outstanding academic achievements?   

Learn More

This year's conference will take place on July 9-10!

To learn more about the New Start Summer Program visit: http://newstart.arizona.edu.