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Career & Leadership AcademyStudent resources

What To Expect

Year 1: Connection
Academy students kick off their journey with a warm welcome to campus and an introduction to their Career & Leadership Academy cohort. In this first year, students focus on discovering their strengths, developing a professional mindset, and building essential life skills. Through engaging sessions on CliftonStrengths, the “Minute Manifesto,” resume writing, and time management, students lay the groundwork for success in college and beyond. Year one is all about creating a strong sense of belonging while equipping students with tools they'll use for life.
Year 2: Community
In their second year, Academy students begin connecting what they’re learning to the world around them. Through hands-on community service projects in the Lubbock area, students grow as leaders while developing real-world skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These experiences build empathy and a deeper sense of responsibility and awareness. In addition to service learning, students participate in sessions on personal branding, how to efficiently job search, and how to turn their college experiences into career-ready strengths.
Year 3: Collaboration
In their third year, Academy students enter a yearlong seminar on leadership alongside their cohort. They are introduced to literature exploring a variety of leadership styles, encouraging thoughtful reflection and dialogue. This multi-pedagogical approach helps students develop a leadership framework that aligns with their unique strengths and personality. Throughout the year, students also gain practical career preparation - learning effective interview strategies, crafting essential application documents, and being introduced to internship and employment opportunities through the Academy’s corporate network
Year 4: Challenge
In their final year, Academy students put everything they’ve learned into action by completing a professional portfolio and preparing to enter the workforce with confidence. Students take on a greater role within the Academy itself—participating in the interview process for incoming members and serving as mentors to first-year students. This final year also addresses key professional topics, including workplace etiquette, navigating rejection in the job search, salary negotiation, and how to thrive in a multi-generational work environment.

Internships & Jobs

Internships: Gain invaluable hands-on experience by connecting with top employers in industries that excite you. Our internships are tailored to align with your career goals, giving you the edge you need to stand out in the competitive job market.

Career Treks:

Not ready to commit to an internship? Explore your options with Career Treks—short, immersive visits to companies and organizations. These 1-3 day experiences provide a unique behind-the-scenes look at how businesses operate and help you uncover what excites you most about the professional world.

Discover What Students Are Saying About the Career & Leadership Academy.

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