MiddCORE is a suite of immersive leadership, innovation, and life skills programs at Middlebury College. This cohort-style programming equips students with the skills, mindsets, and experiences to become effective leaders and creative problem solvers. The program has two main offerings: The MiddCORE J-Term program and the MiddCORE Summer Lab. The MiddCORE J-Term Program is a 4-week credit-bearing program that helps students build skills, create opportunities, and expand networks. Taught by 30+ industry professionals, the J-Term program features the Strategic Challenge, an opportunity for students to apply their liberal arts education to a real-world problem (past partners include Patagonia, L.L.Bean, Orvis, Peet’s Coffee, Google, YouTube, and more.) In addition to the Strategic Challenge, MiddCORE mentors develop weekly hands-on challenges that inspire students to think creatively, operate outside their comfort zone, and deal with ambiguity. This collaborative environment leverages the skills of all disciplines to achieve cutting-edge solutions. The MiddCORE Summer Lab is an 8-week leadership and professional development experience that runs in conjunction with students’ summer internships. All sessions are led by industry professionals and designed to sharpen professional skill sets, expand networks, and explore possibilities.