Our Journey

For nearly 30 years, ROUTES Unlimited has challenged Ohio State students to step beyond the familiar, engage with complex social issues, and discover their ability to make a difference in the world.

The journey began in Winter 1997 in Ohio State Housing and Residence Education as an innovative experiential learning initiative created by Shawn Baratz, Jamie Lodermeier, Kathlene Mullens, and Dr. Julius Mayo.

Originally known as ResRules!, the program was inspired by the spirit of exploration and teamwork made popular by MTV’s Road Rules. Students worked in small groups, tackling real-world challenges through interactive “challenge cards” that encouraged them to learn about and respond to the impact of HIV/AIDS through community engagement, service, and meaningful dialogue.

During Memorial Day Weekend 1997, participants traveled to New York City for the program’s first nontraditional discovery opportunity. There, they attended Jonathan Larson’s acclaimed Broadway musical RENT and explored themes of HIV/AIDS, housing insecurity, poverty, and social responsibility.

The experience demonstrated the power of learning beyond the classroom and helped establish the foundation for what ROUTES Unlimited would become.

In 2000, with support from the Nationwide Insurance Foundation, the program expanded its focus on service, leadership, and learning. To reflect this evolution, ResRules! was renamed MUNDO (Multicultural Understanding through Nontraditional Discovery Opportunities). 

Today, ROUTES Unlimited carries forward this legacy of exploration, leadership, and discovery. Building on nearly three decades of transformative experiences, the program helps students develop as thoughtful leaders, engaged community members, and responsible global citizens. 

Your route to success starts here. Where will the ROUTES Unlimited journey take you?