UTOP participants develop essential study skills and college survival tips, enhance their knowledge of campus, take part in co-curricular activities, and receive academic advising and monitoring throughout freshmen year.

UTOP mentors are carefully selected upper-class students that play a vital role by providing a mentoring relationship and help students make connections academically, socially and co-curricularly.

UTOP class schedules are designed to establish a solid academic foundation for new college students. Participants gain a head start on adjusting to college life by developing good study skills, living habits and lasting friendships.

UTOP students complete the program with seven credit hours towards their general education requirements and often take leadership roles such as UTOP mentors, SAFE counselors, Student Alumni Ambassadors, orientation counselors, and student government leaders.

Dr. Thomas founded the University Transition Opportunities Program (UTOP) in 1986, bringing incoming students to campus the summer before their freshman year. UTOP is one of the anchor programs at UNC Charlotte geared towards student success, retention, and timely graduation.