MINDS FOR THE FUTURE

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WHAT IS MISSING IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION IN THE 21ST CENTURY?

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USF-Captiva offers a wholly unique Minds for the Future / Special Qualities of Mind program to pre-college and university students, working adult students, and Executive Education students. We partner with universities to offer an innovative educational program to students worldwide.

A Certificate is awarded upon satisfactory completion of this program.

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oVERVIEW


Our Purpose

Our purpose is to nurture intellectual development and cultivate the Special Qualities of Mind within the next generation of students. These individuals will be able to pursue a life of purpose and be capable of contributing to the betterment of society.

Preparation for the Future

Students who cultivate these qualities will increase their self-confidence and be capable of thriving outside of the educational sphere.

Seeking Thinkers

For this program, USF-Captiva is seeking a diverse group of learners from different backgrounds and experiences, whose interests, goals, and curiosities inspire them to learn and discover.

University Collaboration

We foster collaboration and partner directly with various universities to offer our MBA program and Minds for the Future / Special Qualities of the Mind academic program. Undergraduate students are allowed to take courses in this curriculum.

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Format: Blended in-person and remote

Classes meet on Saturdays for 3 hours. Each course lasts 4 weeks.

Delivery: Personalized learning

Using cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI), we accelerate the rate at which you learn and retain

Instruction: Harvard materials / “thought leaders”

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MINDS FOR THE FUTURE

COURSES

HOW TO LEAD A PURPOSEFUL LIFE

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and purpose in this transformative course that delves into the essence of leading a fulfilling life. Drawing upon the wisdom of literature, great thinkers, personal experiences, and self-reflection, you'll explore themes of strength, goal-setting, happiness, and life-planning.

Through engaging discussions, thought-provoking Harvard articles, and excerpts from renowned pieces of media, you'll gain valuable insights into your unique strengths and aspirations. With guidance from experienced professors, you'll unravel the puzzle of your life, uncovering new paths and possibilities for a meaningful and fulfilling existence.

As William Livingston, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, astutely observed, "Whatever principles are imbibed at college run through a man's whole future." Embrace this opportunity to shape your future by embarking on this empowering quest for purpose.
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TAYLOR SWIFT: MASTERMIND OF INFLUENCE

Taylor Swift is a cross-genre songwriting talent who creates memorable characters, stories, and lyrics, all while crafting a relatable and aspiration persona. Her songs speak of love, heartbreak, resilience, self-discovery, and empowerment. This short course uses Harvard articles and case studies to learn more about talor Swift and what makes her happy.

Swift is also an incredibly savvy businesswoman who recently took ownership of her music by re-recording her albums and negotiating with ticker sellers. She has built strong social and emotional bonds with her fan base. Take this course to learn about the hidden entrepreneur behind the famed singer, and how Swift managed to transform from artist to businesswoman.

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MORAL COMPASS IN THE DIGITAL AGE

This course presents a practical way of making final decisions on life and work’s difficult, complex, and uncertain ethical problems. What if you have discussed the problem, considered possible solutions, talked with trusted colleagues, and used an ethical framework, but you’re still unsure of what’s right and what’s wrong? What if there is no right or wrong solution? How should you make your final decision?

This crucial question is rarely asked or answered. And some standard answers – follow your moral compass, your conscience, or your values – offer more inspiration than practical guidance. This course teaches you how to analyze the problem and determine what the ethical choice to make is. We find moral and ethical clarity by fully understanding the problem and how certain solutions will affect the people around us.

This course uses Harvard articles and Harvard case studies to enhance learning about how we make these tough ethical decisions. It offers ethical approaches and practical guidance for leaders and managers.

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CULTIVATING GLOBAL MINDS

This course aims to enrich global minds by fostering an understanding and appreciation of different cultures, perspectives, and global issues, ultimately leading to more informed and engaged individuals and communities. Here's a breakdown of what that means and how it can be achieved:

What is a Global Mindset?

  • Appreciation for other people: Recognizing and valuing the richness of different cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking

  • Adaptability: Being open to new ideas and experiences, and being willing to adapt to different situations and environments

  • Intercultural Competence: The ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with people from different backgrounds

  • Global Awareness: Understanding the interconnectedness of global issues and the impact of our actions on a larger scale

Why is Cultivating a Global Mindset Important?

  • Personal Growth: Broaden your horizons, deepen your understanding of the world, and become a more well-rounded and empathetic person

  • Professional Success: A global mindset is increasingly important for career success in today's interconnected world

  • Global Citizenship: Become a more informed and engaged citizen of the world

  • Solving Global Challenges: Help us to address complex global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality

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Employers seek graduates who can adapt successfully to rapid changes in the nature of their jobs, solve problems creatively, work adaptably in teams, interact effectively with diverse groups of colleagues, subordinates, and customers, and be resilient enough to overcome the challenges and risks created by constant economic change.
— Derek Bok