Rising Leaders Institute

What is the Rising Leaders Institute (RLI)?

Rising Leaders Institute is a 14-week program for first-year and transfer students. The program engages participants to recognize and develop their leadership styles through assessment, practical experiences, and professional feedback. As a part of the 14-week curriculum, you will hear from experts in the fields of:

  • Leadership
  • Communications
  • Ethics
  • Community Service

What do I get out of participating?

Rising Leaders Institute is what you make of it.  You will be able to work and learn with other student leaders, network with staff and Peer Lead Mentors, and gain important skills that will help you in the workforce. As part of the program, you will learn more about your personal leadership style, how to develop useful skills, and work in a group.

What exactly do I do for the program?

If you are accepted into the program, you will be required to:

  • Attend a weekend retreat at the start of the spring semester.
  • Attend weekly class taught by a Student Life staff member where you will learn about the curriculum topics mentioned above.
  • Work on a community service project with a small group of students.

What is a Peer Lead Mentor (PLM)?

A Peer Lead Mentor (PLM) is an upper class student leader who will:

  • Serve as peer advisor to a first-year group.
  • Attend and assist with the weekend retreat.
  • Provide leadership in the planning of the practical elements.
  • Assist with and attend weekly Friday meetings.
  • Meet with students outside the Friday meeting time if needed.

How do I apply for the Rising Leaders Institute (RLI)?

An application for Rising Leaders Institute will be available online.  You will have to fill out all sections of the application and hand it in by the determined deadline.

When do we meet for class?

Classes meet every Friday. Attendance is mandatory at all classes.

Does it cost anything to participate?

There is no application, registration, or participation fee. It is absolutely free! All we ask is for your full commitment to the program.

Who do I contact with more questions?

If you have any more questions, please contact Avani Rana via e-mail at lead@echo.rutgers.edu or by phone at (732) 932-7617.

Click here to download the application( 730 KB doc).