It’s the start of a new year and a new semester and even though you’re remote, it doesn’t mean you can’t step out of your comfort zone and thrive. Whether you want to meet new people, gain experience for your resume or develop professional skills, here are some leadership opportunities to look for this spring.
CU GOLD
CU GOLD is a free leadership program that is open to all CU students. It’s a great way to practice effective communication, explore personal values and develop critical leadership skills. You will also gain personal awareness and growth to help you at CU and beyond.
- The Core Leadership Program (CLP) is a semester-long introductory program. Each week, participants will explore personal values, diversity and different leadership styles. CLP applications are now open.
- The Applied Leadership Program (ALP) is open to all CLP graduates. Participants will learn how to effectively apply their skills and practice leadership roles through simulation-based learning experiences. ALP applications are also open.
- LeaderShops are free interactive virtual sessions for student organizations. Workshops focus on helping student organizations grow and include topics like time management, running effective meetings, leadership, getting organized, planning cohesive events, retaining membership and more. Student organizations can request individual workshops, and stay tuned for spring LeaderShop dates.
- Attend the Leadership Exploration and Development (LEAD) event. Participating will give you the chance to gain a deeper understanding of essential leadership skills while connecting with and forming relationships with your peers. The virtual event will take place on March 13 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Applications for CLP and ALP close on Jan. 29 at 5 p.m. Questions? Email cugold@colorado.edu.
Journey Leader Program
Journey Leaders are students who work with new students and families during Fall and Spring Welcome events. Journey Leaders help:
- Welcome new students and families to campus while providing them with resources to find their community at CU
- Share tips and advice about adjusting to life at CU Boulder by sharing personal stories and experiences
- Answer new families’ questions and connect with new Buffs as they begin their CU journey
As a Journey Leader, you will practice leadership skills such as problem solving, relationship building and public speaking. Applications are due March 1. Learn more about becoming a Journey Leader.
The Dean of Students Leadership and Values Council
If you want to make a difference at CU, join the Dean of Students Leadership and Values Council. You’ll have the chance to advocate, provide feedback and increase awareness of campus programs to help serve the student body. Here are what you can expect to gain:
- Interpersonal skill and communication
- Leadership and mentorship from CU faculty and staff
- A deeper understanding and connection with other students at CU
- Experience in evaluating what works and doesn’t work in existing programs
To apply, submit an interest statement to deanofstudents@colorado.edu, and visit the Dean of Students website for additional guidelines. Applications close Feb. 15 at 12 p.m.
Womxn’s Leadership Symposium
The Womxn’s Leadership Symposium is a conference created for womxn/womxn-identified staff and students. You’ll explore a variety of ways to develop authentic and empowered leadership skills! This year’s theme is “Cultivating Growth Through Resistance and Resilience.”
This virtual event will take place March 3. Registration opens Feb. 1. Questions? Contact cisc@colorado.edu.
INVST Community Leadership Program
The INVST Community Leadership Program challenges undergraduate students to learn through interdisciplinary exploration about social and environmental issues. You’ll gain practical skills, serve in the community and develop leadership abilities for your future.
Applications are now open. If you have questions, contact INVST Community Studies at 303-492-8045 or invst@colorado.edu. Application deadline is March 9.
Join a student board
Being a leader isn’t just about excelling in your academic courses. It is also about having confidence in your voice and using it to make a difference. Your role as a student board member can give you the ability to grow in meaningful ways. Joining a student board gives you the opportunity to make decisions and create solutions to problems right here at CU Boulder.
There are a variety of student boards for you to join throughout the year, so don’t shy away from trying something new. The Center for Student Involvement (CSI) and the University Memorial Center (UMC), as well as the Rec Center are now accepting applications.
Become a Herd Leader
The Herd Leadership Council provides a smaller group of Forever Buff students crucial resume-building opportunities in the areas of mentorship, fundraising, event planning, marketing, communications and more. Help promote Buff pride and inclusivity, and share CU Boulder traditions.
Applications to become a Herd Leader close on Feb. 2. at 11:59 p.m. MST. Questions? Contact theherd@colorado.edu.
Add a Leadership Studies Minor
Did you know you can study to be a leader? Consider the Leadership Studies Minor as a way to gain leadership experience:
- Learn new ways to think about leadership.
- Discover your own leadership strengths.
- Develop skills through leading project teams, managing conflict, public speaking and analyzing problems.
- Learn about collaborative and inclusive leadership, ethical decision-making and issues of power and privilege.
Talk with your advisor to see how the Leadership Studies Minor may fit into your academic journey.
Want to know about more ways to get involved? Go to the Student Affairs website. For additional leadership opportunities, visit the Center for Leadership website and be sure to follow us on social media @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!