Leadership Opportunities

You’ve probably heard the phrase before: “born leader.”

Not to burst anyone’s bubble, but good leaders aren’t born, they’re made. They learn how to see different points of view. They find ways to motivate others. They work toward their goal despite occasional setbacks. In fact, if you have the drive and passion, you can become an influential and effective leader.

Some of you have perhaps already taken a leadership role through your school or community, such as team captain, editor of the school newspaper, board member, class president, or by organizing a school event.

You don’t have to hold a titled position to be a leader. Anyone who has the desire to lead can. Leadership comes from the heart and is backed by a strong desire to attain a goal through group cooperation.

The transition from high school to college can be challenging as you adjust to new expectations and more independence, but college is also a time for exploring who you are and what fires you up. And once you’re excited about an idea or a cause, your leadership can make things happen—for yourself and others.

The College of Liberal Arts is proud to support its students’ efforts to explore and enhance their leadership skills and potential. If you were a leader in high school, we’re sure that you will find opportunities to challenge yourself and build on your skills. And if you’re new to leadership, don’t be afraid to try it. There are many ways to be a leader. In either case, getting involved with an organization is a great way to feel more at home on campus.

Learn how you can develop your leadership skills. The University has number of opportunities.

Student Groups, Courses and Workshops

Arts Quarter Collective (AQC)
The Arts Quarter Collective is a student group whose mission is to build relationships and develop dialogue about the arts. The AQC also fosters interdisciplinary work by producing the annual collaborative arts event: ArtsMosis.

College of Liberal Arts Student Board
The CLA Student Board represents CLA students in policymaking issues, advocacy for the University of Minnesota, and community building within the college. The board is similar to a student council, but on a much larger scale with a formal constitution and board members.

LeaderQuest Leadership Program

This semester-long program brings 25-30 students together who want to discover and develop leadership potential as it relates to the University, home, career and community.

Leadership Certification Program

Available to students throughout the academic year, this program offers a series of workshops tailored to your interests in enhancing your leadership knowledge, application, and skills. The program is flexible to accommodate your busy schedule.

Leadership Minor
The leadership minor program prepares you for real-life leadership experiences, both on campus and in the larger global community. As a participant, you will explore and experience multiple frameworks of leadership. The courses combine social change theories of leadership with real-world leadership experiences.

Minnesota Programs and Activities Council (MPAC)
The Minnesota Programs and Activities Council is the main campus-wide programming board of the Student Activities Office. They plan events to help you unwind, celebrate and have a good time, ranging from blockbuster films, concerts, stand-up comedians, and art exhibits to Homecoming and Spring Jam.

Student Groups
You might want to take the lead by launching a new student group around an interest or issue that sparks you. Or you might serve as an officer for an existing group. The University has hundreds of student groups.

Student Unions and Activities: Leadership and Training
Leadership workshops are free training sessions organized by the Student Activities Office (SAO) that are open to all University of Minnesota students. The workshops change each semester by topic and presenter. When you attend at least three workshops, you receive a certificate of excellence in leadership.

Tom Burnett Advanced Leadership Program

Each spring 15 University of Minnesota students will be chosen to participate in this selective advanced leadership development program focused on identifying and nurturing future leaders.