Management Consulting: Problem Solving in Business for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Course Description: Management Consulting: Problem Solving in Business for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Dartmouth Summer Scholars: Business Consulting and Decision-Making Program

Step into the dynamic world of business consulting and decision-making with Dartmouth's transformative two-week course. Guided by esteemed Dartmouth faculty and industry practitioners, students will delve into the intricacies of analyzing complex business challenges, crafting innovative solutions, and articulating recommendations with persuasive clarity. This immersive experience is designed to equip aspiring business leaders with the skills and confidence needed to excel in real-world scenarios.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Learn from Dartmouth faculty and seasoned industry professionals.

• Gain hands-on experience with frameworks used by top consulting firms.

• Develop critical skills in collaboration, communication, and ethical reasoning.

• Engage in practical simulations and team projects to apply learning.

• Build a professional portfolio with a branded course completion certificate.

Instructor Bio

Instructor:Patroklos Karantinos, MBA

Patroklos grew up in Greece, where he received undergraduate and graduate degrees in finance. He spent five years in corporate finance and M&A advisory, during which he became a CFA charter holder. In 2012, he received his MBA from The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. After graduating from Tuck, Patroklos worked for eight years in higher education, including five years at Tuck, focusing on institutional strategy and growth, and three years in public sector consulting. Patroklos has been working with the Tuck Business Bridge Programs since 2011 and in the summer of 2024, he taught the Business Foundations course, in the inaugural Dartmouth Summer Scholars program. Outside of work, he enjoys doodling.

Location

Nestled in the picturesque campus of Dartmouth College, this program offers students a unique opportunity to learn in an inspiring academic environment. Participants will also have the chance to explore local businesses and the renowned Tuck School of Business, providing a comprehensive view of decision-making in action.

Course Description

Business consulting and decision-making

In this course, students will engage with a blend of case studies, simulations, and team projects to gain a robust understanding of business problem-solving and decision-making. Participants will explore critical frameworks such as SWOT analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and decision trees, applying these tools to diagnose and address real-world business issues.

• Business Case Studies: Dive into famous consulting cases and real-world examples to hone diagnostic and problem-solving skills.

• Framework Workshops: Master tools like root cause analysis and design thinking to tackle complex challenges.

• Decision-Making Simulations: Role-play as consultants advising companies, nonprofits, or startups.

• Team Consulting Project: Collaborate in small groups to solve a current business challenge and present recommendations in a mock boardroom pitch.

• Guest Speakers and Field Trips: Gain insights from Dartmouth alumni and local business leaders and experience decision-making first-hand through site visits.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Explain key business problem-solving frameworks.

• Analyze case studies to identify challenges and solutions.

• Apply structured frameworks to business problems.

• Collaborate effectively in teams and communicate persuasively.

• Evaluate the ethical and social dimensions of business decisions.

Tangible Outcomes

• Capstone Presentation: Deliver a team presentation showcasing your skills, with feedback from instructors and peers.

• Portfolio Building: Receive a branded course completion certificate and a letter of recognition from Summer Institute.

Admission Criteria

To thrive in this program, a passion for business and finance is essential. Admission requirements include:

• Recommended GPA of 3.5 or above in a related field.

• Completed Summer Institute application with thoughtful short-answer responses.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for aspiring finance and business professionals eager to embark on a successful academic and professional journey. Participants will gain foundational knowledge that will enhance their understanding of the field and help determine if a career in business and finance is right for them.

Getting There

Join us at Dartmouth College for a summer of discovery and growth. Information is subject to change as instructors finalize course content and syllabi, ensuring a cutting-edge educational experience.

🛂 Visa Requirements for International Students

🌎 Students NOT in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your home country is not one of the 40 countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, you will need a B-2 Visitor Visa to attend the program.

The B-2 visa is for tourism and short-term study (under 16–18 hours of classes per week).

After enrollment, you will receive a Letter of Introduction to help support your visa application.

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✔️ Students IN the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your country is on the Visa Waiver Program list, you do not need a visa.

However, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before entering the U.S.

Apply here: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

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💼 What the International Program Fee Covers

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 International medical/health insurance while abroad

• 📱 Help securing a local phone number or SIM card if needed

🌍 International Fees & Support

💵 International Registration Fee (U.S. Programs)

Students whose primary residence is outside the United States will be charged an International Registration Fee when attending a U.S.-based program.

This fee includes:

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 Medical/health insurance for international students

• 📱 Help obtaining a U.S. SIM card or phone plan

Note: This fee is mandatory and non-refundable, even if the student does not use all services.

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📘 Academic Reports & College Credit

📝 Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, students receive:

• Detailed course performance summaries

• Instructor feedback

• Recommendations for continued growth

Reports can be mailed to a student’s school upon written parent request.

🎓 College Credit Programs

Students enrolled in credit-bearing classes receive:

• A grade report

• Instructions for requesting a university transcript

Acceptance of credits depends on the receiving university’s policies.

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🌎 International Student Community

Programs welcome a diverse and global student population each summer:

• 🌐 About 30% of students come from outside the U.S.

• 🌍 Representing 50–60 countries

This creates a vibrant, multicultural learning experience.

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🏠 Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to assist with roommate assignments.

Matching is based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Not guaranteed, though campus staff make every effort

Cultural diversity is encouraged, and many roommates come from different countries.

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🧳 What to Bring

Students should pack essentials for at least one week.

Recommended:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries

• Laundry supplies

Spending Money:

• $100–$150 per week (snacks, lunches, souvenirs)

• Debit card recommended for ATM withdrawals

• Credit card for emergencies

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Note: Some campuses provide bedding. A campus-specific packing list will be available after enrollment.

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✈ Travel & Airport Transportation

Programs do not arrange flights.

🚌 Airport Shuttles

Shuttle transportation (additional fee) is available to/from designated airports.

Details are included in the pre-summer transportation form.

Students must arrive/depart within scheduled shuttle windows to use this service.

• For international students, the international registration fee is $379 (residential) OR $239 (commuter) – this fee covers a medical policy for the student and their airport transfers.

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🕒 A Typical Day on Campus (Residential Programs)

A structured, activity-filled day may look like:

• 8:00 AM – Wake Up 🌅

• 8:30 AM – Breakfast 🍳

• 9:30–11:30 AM – Morning Course / Academy 📘

• 11:45 AM – Lunch 🍽

• 1:00–3:00 PM – Afternoon Course / Academy 🧪

• 3:30 PM – Activities, Social Time, or Study Hall 🎉

• 6:00 PM – Dinner 🍝

• 8:00 PM – Evening / Primetime Activities 🌆

• 10:30 PM – Return to Residence Halls 🏠

• 11:30 PM – On Floors 🌙

• 12:00 AM – In Rooms / Lights Out 😴

Activities may include:

shopping • sports • beaches • museums • movies • comedy shows • concerts • local events

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📚 Academic Experience (Enrichment & College Prep)

Programs emphasize:

• Small, interactive classes

• Supportive, enthusiastic instructors

• Hands-on learning and real-world experiences

• Field trips connected to course themes

• A wide choice of enrichment or academic courses

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🚗 Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students follow the regular campus schedule to align with meals and activities.

Standard Schedule (Monday–Friday):

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

Times may vary by campus.

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🍽 Special Dietary Needs

Special meals and dietary accommodations are available.

Requirements:

Parents must complete a dietary information form during pre-arrival.

Residential & Standard Programs:

Notify the Residential Life Dean of dietary restrictions.

Day Programs (Younger Students):

Parents should inform the Program Director on-site.

Common accommodations include:

• Allergy-friendly meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

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🛡️ Campus Safety & Supervision

Student safety is the top priority.

Safety Measures:

• Staff and counselors live on student floors

• 24/7 supervision

• Key-card residence hall access

• Daily check-ins and room checks

• Visitors must check in at the program office

• Students may move only in small groups

• Students may never leave campus alone

• Older students (14–18) may have limited group movement privileges

• 24/7 access to medical care

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📱 Emergency Communication & Response

Campus teams monitor:

• Weather

• Local events

• Road closures

• Any conditions that affect student safety

If needed, programs may:

• Move classes

• Adjust or reroute activities

• Avoid specific areas

Students receive:

• Daily notifications

• Safety messages

• Emergency push alerts

A dedicated Campus Emergency Line connects students to on-site directors.

International students receive support obtaining a local SIM card for reliable communication.

All students attend a mandatory orientation within the first 24 hours covering emergency procedures.

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🚫 Movement Policies & Program Rules

To maintain a safe, positive environment:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests

• All off-campus trips are fully chaperoned

• Security may be increased with campus police or external teams if needed

• Staff monitor all on- and off-campus locations and adjust plans immediately if necessary

📍 Dartmouth College – Campus Profile (Hanover, NH)

Dartmouth College, founded in 1769, is a distinguished Ivy League institution known for its deep academic tradition, research excellence, and strong sense of community. Set within the picturesque town of Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth offers an inspiring environment for motivated students seeking challenge, intellectual exploration, and personal growth.

Surrounded by quintessential New England beauty, the campus features a blend of historic and contemporary architecture, including iconic spaces such as the Baker-Berry Library. Hanover’s walkable Main Street adds to the experience with cafés, shops, restaurants, and a welcoming small-town charm. The region also offers abundant outdoor recreation, including trails, parks, and access to the Connecticut River.

Students join a vibrant community of learners, take part in a range of academic academies, and benefit from small class sizes led by experienced instructors. The program encourages both academic achievement and social development, offering a balanced schedule of coursework, activities, and excursions designed to help students grow as scholars and individuals.

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✨ Program Environment

• Ideal for high-achieving high school students considering selective universities

• Academically rigorous curriculum taught by knowledgeable instructors

• Opportunities to explore multiple subjects across a wide variety of academies

• Supportive environment that encourages independence, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity

• Beautiful, safe, and walkable campus surrounded by natural landscapes

• Perfect blend of academics, recreation, and community engagement

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing

• 🍽 Three meals per day, 7 days per week

• 🎡 Afternoon, evening, and weekend activities and excursions

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Access to athletic and recreation facilities

• 🎓 College admissions presentation

• 🛌 Linens (two full sets including sheets, blanket, pillow, and towels)

• 🧺 Laundry (detergent/softener not provided)

• 🛡 Full campus safety and supervision

Note: Some specialized courses may require additional academic fees.

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🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

• 🎟 Supplemental academic fees (if applicable)

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).

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🎡 Top Activities in Hanover, New Hampshire

• 🖼 Hood Museum of Art

• 🎮 Dave & Buster’s

• ⚾ Fisher Cats Minor League Baseball Game

• 🛍 Shopping at the Mall of New Hampshire

• 🎢 Six Flags New England

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🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco and Live Band Karaoke

• 🎭 Variety performances featuring comedians, hypnotists, mentalists, and magicians

• 🎨 Clubs: arts, baking, sports tournaments, leagues, and game nights

• 🍔 End-of-summer BBQ with lawn games and music