Emerging Leaders Program FAQ

• What is the purpose of the program?
• How will I benefit from being involved?
• How are students selected to participate?
• What are the requirements? Will I have to take tests or do homework assignments?
• What is the time commitment?
• Do I have to complete all three semesters of the program?
• How are the workshop topics selected?
• Who do I contact for more information about the program?

What is the purpose of the program?

The Emerging Leaders Program at Rhode Island College is designed to help students to develop their leadership potential through participation in a series of workshops and experiential learning opportunities. The workshops are organized into six key areas: self-understanding, cultural competency, communication and teamwork, social responsibility, professionalism, and mentorship. The Program aims to provide a foundation for students to become confident, aware, and engaged citizens.

Back to top

How will I benefit from being involved?

• Recognition as a student leader at Rhode Island College
• Excellent resume credentials
• Networking opportunities
• Skills to be a successful global citizen and future professional
• Exposure to new ideas and experiences
• New friends
• Good times

Back to top

How are students selected to participate?

Rhode Island College faculty and staff members are asked to nominate students who show the potential to develop into campus and community leaders, express a willingness to broaden their worldview, and have a positive attitude. Those students are then contacted and asked to apply to the program. Students who are interested in developing their leadership skills are also encouraged to apply by submitting the
application. An average of 15-20 students are selected to participate in each session of the Emerging Leaders Program.

Back to top

What are the requirements? Will I have to take tests or do homework assignments?

Participants will need to attend six workshops throughout the semester, complete two additional activities, and respond to blog postings. There are no tests or traditional homework assignments.

Back to top

What is the time commitment?

In general, the workshops are scheduled for every other Friday from 3pm-5pm. Participants can expect to spend approximately 6-8 hours a month with the Emerging Leaders program. See the workshop schedule for more detailed information.

Back to top

Do I have to complete all three semesters of the program?

While students are encouraged to complete all three semesters of the program in order to gain the full benefit of the experience and receive a Certificate of Completion, this commitment is not mandatory. Below is an outline of topics covered during each semester.

• Semester One: Self-Awareness and Cultural Competency
• Semester Two: Communication and Teamwork and Social Responsibility
• Semester Three: Professionalism and Mentorship

Back to top

How are the workshop topics selected?

Workshop topics are based on research regarding student development theory and desired college outcomes. Examples of this research include Creswell, Donovan, and Olson's workbook entitled "Is Your Life in Balance?", based on Hettler's Dimensions of Wellness; Bennett's Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity; Jakes and Cassidy's Model for Citizen Development and Community Change; and Ender and Newton's Guide for Peer Educators on College Campuses.

Back to top

Who do I contact for more information?

Marissa Weiss
Assistant Director, Student Activities
Student Union 408
mweiss@ric.edu
(401) 456-8149

Back to top