What is UTOP?

The University Transition Opportunities Program (UTOP) began in 1986 to facilitate the underrepresented student’s transition from high school to college. By involving incoming UNC Charlotte freshmen in a rigorous six-week summer collegiate experience, UTOP builds upon the scholastic abilities of the students through college courses and contact with University academic support services.

UTOP’s success came immediately and has continued for over 30 years through increased retention and graduation rates. While UTOP is now open to all incoming first-time students, historically it has been of most benefit to those who are underrepresented. UTOP students have taken leadership roles such as UTOP mentors, SAFE counselors, Student Alumni Ambassadors, orientation counselors, and student government and organization leaders.

THE UTOP EXPERIENCE

UTOP in the Classroom:

UTOP class schedules are designed by the UTOP staff to assist each student in establishing a solid academic foundation as they begin their college career. Upon completion of the program, UTOP students will have earned seven credits towards graduation.

Orientation to the University:

Knowing who to ask and what to ask is essential to university survival. On their way to becoming the best informed freshmen on the UNC Charlotte campus, UTOP students learn about the many resources available to them as university students. Each day during Universal Hour, students become aware of:

Atkins Library	Auxiliary Services (Dining, 49er Card, Bookstore, Campus Mail, Copy/Print, etc.)	Campus Activities Board (CAB)
Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)	Center for Wellness Promotion	Dean of Students Office
Disability Services	Financial Aid	Fraternity and Sorority Life
Urban CORE	Leadership & Community Engagement	Police and Public Safety
Recreational Services	Study Abroad	Student Health Center
Student Organizations	Students Advising for Freshmen Excellence (SAFE)	University Advising Center
University Center for Academic Excellence (UCAE)	University Career Center	Writing Resource Center

Beyond Academics:

Students live in a residence hall on campus during UTOP to gain a head start on adjusting to college life. They begin to develop good study skills and living habits. Interpersonal skills strengthen, and students form many lasting friendships which continue through and beyond their college careers.

UTOP mentors play a vital role throughout the UTOP experience. These carefully selected students share their experiences and help UTOP students become aware of university expectations for students. UTOP mentors live in the residence halls with UTOP students, attend classes with students to effectively assist students during study hall and aid in the development of skills needed to succeed in college and assist in the coordination of events.

UTOP students participate in weekend extra-curricular activities:

Bowling and Laser Tag at SpareTime Entertainment	Carowinds Amusement Park	Charlotte Knights Baseball and Fourth of July Celebration
AUX Cord Wars	Skating Night at Kate’s Skating (Gastonia, NC)	UTOP Talent Show