LeaderShape

The first requirement: to have “a healthy disregard for the impossible.” That’s part of the mission of the LeaderShape Institute, a national program that trains students to lead with integrity and make significant contributions to better our world. Since its launch in 1988, the nonprofit LeaderShape has trained more than 40,000 college students, including Google co-founder Larry Page, who has credited the program with steering him on a successful path. It has been named an “exemplary program” by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

The intensive six-day educational experience is held in a remote environment with no Internet or cell-phone access. Sixty Berkeley participants come from all engineering majors, as well as from diverse ethnic and personal backgrounds. Making such cross-disciplinary connections has a life-changing impact on the students and leads to the possibility of new engineering solutions. Sessions include such exercises as team-building, a ropes course, charting visions for a brighter future and exploring ethical issues. Panel discussions feature business and community leaders. If you’re looking to make a global impact with groundbreaking innovations, this is an excellent place to start.

LeaderShape at a glance

When?

The institute is held just before the spring semester; dates for 2023 are January 8th – 13th.

Who?

Any transfer, second, third or fourth-year undergraduate student who is either in the College of Engineering or an active member of an engineering student organization is welcome to apply.

What is it like?

Find out more on the LeaderShape Podcast.

How much?

The six-day institute is completely sponsored by General Motors and the Berkeley Engineering Annual Fund. For the selected student participants it is free of cost.

How to apply?

Applications for the 2023 session are now open. To apply click here. The deadline to submit your application is Sunday, November 20th.