The GRStrong: V.O.I.C.E.S. and BBT: R.I.S.E. 3-Year Leadership Pathway is not just a character-building program—it’s a comprehensive personal development track that strengthens key competencies colleges actively seek in applicants.
Through intentional progression in emotional intelligence, social awareness, and peer leadership, students are not only growing as people but also building an authentic leadership portfolio that will stand out on college applications.
Year One – Self Mastery: The Foundation for Academic and Personal Growth
Focus: Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Self-Awareness, and Self-Leadership
College Readiness Benefits:
- Improved emotional regulation leads to better academic focus and stress management.
- Self-awareness enables students to articulate their identity and goals clearly in personal statements.
- Students begin developing a leadership narrative grounded in personal growth and resilience.
Year Two – Social Leadership: The Core of Collaborative and Inclusive Leadership
Focus: Social Intelligence (SQ), Empathy, Communication, and Respectful Influence
College Readiness Benefits:
- Enhances group collaboration and communication skills vital for college seminars, team projects, and dorm life.
- Builds confidence in diverse and multicultural environments.
- Demonstrates social responsibility and community involvement, both highly valued by universities.
- Prepares students to take on leadership roles in student government, clubs, and service organizations.
Year Three – Peer Mentorship: Real-World Leadership Experience
Focus: Facilitation, Mentoring, Responsibility, and Impact
College Readiness Benefits:
- Offers hands-on leadership experience through co-facilitation, public speaking, and mentoring.
- Showcases initiative and a commitment to lifting others—highly regarded in recommendation letters.
- Gives students tangible experiences to reflect on in college essays (e.g., leading a session, managing peer dynamics, resolving conflict).
- Builds a strong service and leadership profile for selective programs, scholarships, and honors colleges.
How This Program Stands Out on College Applications
- Leadership Track Record: Demonstrates sustained commitment to personal growth and leadership over multiple years.
- Service & Mentorship: Highlights meaningful peer impact, a key quality in competitive scholarship and honors applications.
- SEL & 21st Century Skills: Reflects mastery of emotional intelligence, collaboration, empathy, and purpose-driven action—skills linked to long-term college and career success.
Unique Personal Narrative: Empowers students to craft compelling personal statements rooted in authentic experiences of transformation, leadership, and resilience.