Started in fall 2023, the Aspiring Leaders Program (ALP) was created for students curious about leadership but unsure where to start. The seven-week program, co-led by a TCU staff member and a past participant serving as a peer guide, meets once a week to explore a new leadership skill such as values-based decision making, event planning, strategic thinking and interviewing, all framed through the lens of leadership.
Each session is interactive and focused on practical application. The final week turns toward the future as students set aspirational leadership goals with guidance from staff, using the Leadership and Involvement Passport from Leadership and Student Involvement (LSI). Participants leave with a plan, specific skills to build, organizations to join or leadership positions to pursue, and the confidence to take the next step.
For Director of Leadership and Experiential Learning Philip Dodd, one week stands out. “My favorite ALP week is our interview workshop. Students interview with two different professional staff, using questions that draw on the content from previous weeks. They receive immediate feedback, refine their answers and build skills for future interviews. I have seen interview week open doors for students. Some walk away with not just confidence but new campus connections that lead to leadership and work opportunities.”
That is exactly what happened for junior neuroscience major Jacque Balderas. Her ALP interview week led to a student worker role in the LSI office, a position as a Frogs First director and the chance to serve as a Ranas leader during Orientation, providing Spanish translations for new Horned Frog parents and families.
“The Aspiring Leaders Program gave me more than just leadership tools. It offered real experiences that challenged and inspired me,” Jacque said. “ALP helped me connect with others on a deeper level and uncover a stronger sense of purpose within myself. It is a space where you grow, lead and learn who you are alongside an amazing community.”
Junior management and finance double major Sarai Morales has been part of ALP in another way, first as a participant, then as a peer guide for two semesters. Working alongside the LSI team, she helped infuse each session with creative touches, from bagels on goal-setting day, “Bagoals,” to tacos during the stressful decision-making session, “Let’s taco ’bout stress.” “Participating in the Aspiring Leaders Program was such an awesome experience,” Sarai said. “The cohort model made it easy to connect with new people, explore ways to get involved and reflect on our individual leadership styles.”
The program’s success has inspired a new initiative for more experienced student leaders, Leadership Lab, which will pilot this semester. The Aspiring Leaders Program happens each semester, and students can sign up through Engage. If you know a student who could benefit from building leadership skills and making meaningful connections, email leadership@tcu.edu.
