Gabelli Plunge: A Ground Floor Experience

July 6-16, 2026 Rose Hill/Lincoln Center

3 credits

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of foundational business skills and approaches to systematically address business challenges. Through team collaboration, students will engage in a team project where teams will develop a new business idea with a detailed business plan and presentation. The course aims to instill a deep understanding of the impact of global events on business and covers key components such as accounting, marketing, operations, finance, and more. Emphasizing the Gabelli School's commitment to "business with a purpose," the course delves into ESG factors, Stakeholder Capitalism, and social responsibility, challenging students to expand their perspectives on business performance.

Skills/Learning Outcomes

On completion of this program, students will:

  • Understand key business concepts and disciplines.
  • Gain critical skills in business writing, teamwork, and problem-solving. 
  • Appreciate the importance of working inclusively and how to embrace different perspectives in organizations.
  • Explain Stakeholder Capitalism and ESG factors.
  • Articulate environmental influences on businesses. 
  • Perform in-depth company research and create a socially responsible new business plan.
  • Improve their ideation skills and ability to collaborate. 

Overall Takeaways

Upon completing the course, students will emerge with a holistic understanding of business fundamentals and a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness of various business components. 

The team business plan project not only enhances practical skills in project management, teamwork, and presentation but also instills a mindset of responsible business practices. The course aims to open students' eyes to the unique perspective and approach of social responsibility embedded in the Gabelli School's undergraduate courses, fostering compassionate and informed business leaders.

Instructor Bio

Robert Daly
Robert Daly is the Director of Student Engagement and Retention in Fordham's Gabelli School of Business. A professional with extensive corporate experience in leadership and education, he serves a crucial role at the Gabelli School by emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and professional development. Consistent with Fordham's Jesuit tradition, he underscores the significance of combining academic knowledge with real-world experience for a well-rounded education.

Course Details

Gabelli Plunge: A Ground Floor Experience
July 6-16, 2026, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
3 credits
Rose Hill and Lincoln Center Campus
Instructor: Robert Daly

Course Number: CBBU 1001 RT2
CRN: 14955

Please note that this is a college course and that Fordham students may also be enrolled in this class, which will be a great opportunity for you to learn more about life at Fordham. Final projects may be due after your time on campus.

Tuition

Residential: $5,039.00
Tuition for the residential program includes the course, course materials, housing, meals, and excursions in and outside of class. Move-in is Sunday afternoon, the day before classes begin. Please click here for a more detailed calendar of important dates.

Commuter: $3,832.00
Tuition for commuters includes the course, course materials, lunches, and excursions in and outside of class. Additional meals are available on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Students may wish to bring funds for incidentals, shopping at the Fordham Bookstore, souvenirs, and any personal items they wish to purchase.

Apply

Application deadlines:

Course and housing: May 1, 2026; course only: May 29, 2026. Please note that admission decisions are rolling until the class is full, and course caps are around 20 students. Apply by April 1, 2026 to be considered for a limited number of need-based discounts. We recommend early application.

Application Requirements: this credit-bearing course is open to rising high school seniors; exceptional rising juniors will also be considered. The course is recommended for those with a 3.0 or better. No prior experience with the subject matter is required.

To apply, you will need:

  • a copy of your high school transcript and your fall report card if the grades are not reflected on your transcript.
  • a writing sample from one of your high school courses.
  • a letter of recommendation from a teacher or guidance counselor if you are a rising junior.

Please make note of the course details above because you will select your course as part of your application.

There is a $75 fee to apply and a $300 deposit to secure your seat. Housing requires a $50 deposit. All payments will be treated as deposits toward your final bill.

Apply

If you are not ready to apply, you can sign up to stay informed about the Fordham Summer Leaders Academy too, or email us with questions!

Immersion 2 Resident Move-In/Move-Out

Date  Resident Information
June 12 All medical forms and consents due
July 5 Move-in between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., all Immersion 2 students 
July 11 Move-out between 6 and 9 p.m., Immersion 2 One-Week students
July 17 Move-out before 10 a.m., Immersion 2 Two-Week students

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