LEEP Projects 3.0

What are LEEP Projects? 2 Summer experiences Offer real-world application of course material Allow authentic problem-solving experiences Provide an opportunity to work with someone outside of Clark Enhance mastery of the LEEP learning outcomes Serves as a capstone, or culminating experience → Students who complete LEEP Projects will now be called LEEP Fellows

Benefits of completing a LEEP Project Real-world experience that animates your academic coursework; the opportunity to learn a variety of skills that will give you an advantage Opportunity to reflect on your experiences and your intentions as you make a plan to move forward Opportunity to make a close, working relationship with a faculty mentor Some projects include working closely with a Clark alum Targeted training opportunities designed to prepare you for your project; pre- and post- project advising, preparation, and support Transcript designation as a LEEP Fellow 3

What kind of LEEP Project can I do? Existing LEEP Project Alumni-sponsored Organizations with close ties to Clark Faculty/department- generated → Can be found in Clark Recruiter → If position is secured, LEEP funding may be available 4 Self-designed LEEP Project Crafted with guidance from a faculty mentor Should have a connection to an external organization → Students will need to apply for funding → Decisions will be made by a faculty committee

How are LEEP Projects different? All have a connection with an external organization Some existing projects offer a connection with an alumni host! Some existing projects are paid by the organization! All require the support of a faculty mentor Some existing projects will “come with” a faculty mentor Pre- and post training and reflection Funding may be available* → With all, an expectation that there is some outcome that is beneficial to you 5

What are the responsibilities of a LEEP Fellow? Complete all components of the application Including: 1) application form; 2) project description; 3) LEEP essay; 4) letter of recommendation; 5) resume; 6) LEEP Project contract; and 7) relevant risk/liability forms Attend an advising session and pre- and post-project workshops Attend LEEP Project class or boot camp Submit a mid-term update Submit a final reflection Participate in LEEP Talks or Fall Fest Take part in exit interviews - optional 6

What are the application criteria? Primarily geared towards juniors Sophomores and seniors will be considered if 1) the project is developmentally appropriate; and 2) they can make a compelling case as to how the project relates to their future goals Previous LEEP Pioneers are not eligible Cannot be on social or academic probation 7

Special Considerations Studying abroad Are eligible for LEEP Project funding; plans for training will be determined Interviewing may be difficult – it is important that you check Clark ! International students International students who are working off campus will need to get academic credit and obtain work permission from OIA Completing projects abroad Applications to complete a project in a country on the State Department watch list will receive additional scrutiny Applying for other sources of funding and/or paid projects Eligible to receive up to $2500 from Clark Receipt of outside funds may lessen or negate Clark funding 8

How do I start? Existing Projects Decide which project(s) is right for you Attend a LEEP Project advising session; required for all applicants Sessions held weekly in the LEEP Center; starts week of November 18 Log on to Clark Recruiter to view existing projects Available week of November 18 Get your resume and cover letter reviewed by Career Services Monday-Friday, 12-4 pm – no appointment required! Apply for a position(s) Attend an Interviewing 101 workshop Connect with a faculty mentor and submit LEEP Fellow application once position is secured

How do I start? Self-Designed Projects Decide which project(s) is right for you Attend a LEEP Project advising session; required for all applicants Sessions held weekly in the LEEP Center; starts week of November 18 Get your resume reviewed by Career Services Monday-Friday, 12-4 pm – no appointment required! Connect with a faculty mentor Attend a Writing Your Proposal workshop Submit LEEP Fellow application → All self-designed project applications will be reviewed by, and funding decided upon by, a faculty committee 10

Deadlines Application deadlines LEEP Fellows application opens January 17 Please note that some deadlines may be earlier! Deadline is March 14 for self-designed projects Deadline is April 18 for existing projects 11 Stipend disbursement schedule Funds will be distributed evenly at two points: 1) upon completion of the LEEP class or boot camp (June) 2) upon receipt of the final reflection (September) Students may petition for release of additional funds at an earlier date