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Just in time for the start of the academic year, a new campus-wide student program is coming online that aims to help students learn about innovation and kickstart their careers.

The program is called “” and is happening through the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ’s startup incubator, Velocity. The program partners include the Problem Lab, the Centre for Career Action and the Work Learn Institute.

Its creators say that the program has specific relevance for students in the Faculty of Mathematics. It draws from innovation in computer science, math and statistics as part of its inspiration.

“I think that Zero resonates so strongly with math because Zero embraces innovation as absolutely foundational to success,” said Holden Beggs, one of the program’s co-founders. “For any students eager to make an impact, Zero provides a natural outlet for untapped creativity. It’s fast-paced and has lots of feedback, which I think appeals to the high-achievers in math. We created a lot of the program with enhancing the math experience in mind.”

The program currently has two components. “Zero Experience” is more on the innovation and entrepreneurial side. It is for students who want to make an impact but don’t know how to start. It combines weekly interactive workshops, world-class mentors, fireside chats with inspiring guests and an iterative learning model.

“Zero Work” is more about the career side of things. It is for students who want to get a great job but feel lost or confused about how. Zero Work helps with career development and job search skills, including a peer support network to keep participants motivated along the way.

Asked about time commitments for students in intensive programs in the Faculty of Math, Beggs said that Zero isn’t demanding and that, in the long run, it can save students time and stress.

“Zero Experience is only a 2 hour per week commitment for nine weeks,” he said. “And those two hours are packed with interactive and team-based discovery. Students are only expected to commit to three weeks of workshops at a time, so after every three weeks, they’re welcome to opt-out of the program if the time commitment is too much.”

“Zero Work is even less of a commitment,” he continued. “It has a one-day Ignition Day on a Saturday, followed by weekly hour-long touchpoints. The touchpoints act as motivational refuelling, but while they’re fun and engaging, students can skip them if they’re super busy. Zero is all about making innovation and success accessible for people crunched for time.”

For students looking to get involved in the university community and expand their professional and personal networks, Beggs said the Zero program promises to give students the tools they need to thrive. 

“The biggest takeaway from the Zero Experience is that you’re capable of absolutely incredible innovations,” he said. “You don’t need any prior experience to join, just curiosity and excitement for your potential. The biggest takeaway from Zero Work is that while job hunting can be confusing, stressful and lonely, it doesn’t have to be. Zero Work gives you straight answers at every step of the process.”

Students interested in getting involved in the program need to submit a brief application form. The deadline for  is September 21. The deadline for  is September 16.