College students should always be on the lookout for opportunities to supplement their education. These experiences may include internships, leadership opportunities, networking events, and more.
While college courses enhance your knowledge, leadership experiences and
internships help students grow beyond the classroom. Leadership qualities and management styles learned as an intern are great to include on a student resume. Networks and long-term connections gained from these experiences may
help you get your first job after college graduation.
Since 2018, the Obama Foundation Leaders program has engaged leaders worldwide, connecting them with opportunities to change the world. Learn why changemakers and civic-focused influencers should consider applying for Obama’s leadership program, below.
JUMP TO APPLY FOR THE OBAMA LEADERS PROGRAM
About the Obama Foundation Leaders Program
The leadership program is a six-month virtual leadership event for 100 chosen participants. According to the
Obama Foundation site, participants, also known as “Obama Leaders” or “Leaders,” will learn values-based leadership skills.
Program Leaders will create relationships and
enhance their leadership skills via weekly sessions. Sessions include individualized coaching, group conversations with thought leaders, diversity-focused learning experiences with fellow program participants, and more. Participants can expect an 8–12-hour commitment each month.
Using the personal and professional skills gained from leadership team members and sessions, participants will address a challenge or issue of their choice, paving the way for them to make systems-level changes in their communities.
When is the Obama Leadership Program?
The 2024 Obama Leadership Program begins in August or early September 2024 and ends on May 1, 2025.
What type of students should apply to become Obama Leaders?
Students with three years of experience in their chosen “issue area” should consider applying for the Obama Leadership Program. The program committee is seeking participants with a variety of experiences, approaches and backgrounds. There is no party affiliation requirement to participate in the leadership program.
If you’re a student leader passionate about a cause, consider applying for the leadership program!
What type of networking opportunities can Obama Leaders expect?
After completing the program, participants will become part of the Obama Foundation’s Leadership Network. This opportunity includes global connections and the support of more than 1,000 Obama Foundation alumni. Networking opportunities include:
• Meetings with alumni from around the world.
• Foundation events invites.
• Access to the alumni newsletter and an online platform to connect, and more.
Available to: Students ages 24 through 45
Deadline: 2/9/24
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program is open to those who are focused on creating positive change for local communities, an eligible United States nation or territory, and/or the broader U.S. region. You must be between the ages of 24 and 45, have at least three years of relevant experience in your issue area, and be proficient in written and spoken English to be considered for this program. The program offers 100 US-based leaders the opportunity to learn new skills and tools to accelerate positive and lasting change in their communities.
More Opportunities
If you are interested in enhancing your leadership skills or consider yourself a civic-minded student, consider checking out the below opportunities:
Top Internships for Students - See first-hand what effective leadership looks like and what part of leadership you could enhance before you get your first job.
Paid Internships for Students - Learn the roles of leadership and how to work around a new group of people, all while getting paid as an intern.
The Pathways Internship Program - This program provides hands-on learning experiences throughout the high school or college career, connecting students to federal jobs after graduation.
The DoD SMART Scholarship - This program offers students a full-ride scholarship and guarantees a civilian job with the Department of Defense (DoD) upon graduation.
Community Service Scholarships – This list of scholarships is for changemaker students that give back.
