Peace Ambassador Leadership Summit (PALS) at University of Florida

Overview

"Youth Leaders of Tomorrow: Navigating Business and Entrepreneurship"

Designed with high school students from across the nation in mind, the Peace Ambassador Leadership Summit (PALS) at the University of Florida stands as a beacon of leadership, business education, and social responsibility. PALS is distinguished by its unique peer-led approach, where high school Junior Counselors and college student mentors collaborate to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment. This distinctive feature fosters an inclusive atmosphere of mentorship and peer-to-peer learning, making PALS an extraordinary experience.

At its core, PALS aims to advance leadership skills through the lens of entrepreneurial thinking, encouraging students to cultivate adaptable leadership qualities across various careers. This is achieved through interactive sessions and group projects, all of which are aimed at fostering innovative and creative thinking. The program not only focuses on the development of personal leadership philosophies but also emphasizes the significance of ethics in leadership roles.

Effective communication and teamwork are pillars of the PALS curriculum. The summit ingeniously integrates team challenges and presentation skill-building activities with exercises in active listening. This approach holistically enhances both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, preparing students for real-world business scenarios and collaborative teamwork.

A distinctive feature of each PALS location is the development of social skills through evening activities that encourage participants to step out of their comfort zones. These activities, ranging from dorm decorations, karaoke, and socials to team-building exercises, art therapy, talent shows, and relaxation days at the pool, are designed to enhance camaraderie, self-expression, and teamwork. Such vibrant social experiences complement the rigorous educational components, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Career exploration is another key facet of PALS, offering insights into various career paths and developing essential job-seeking skills. This is enhanced by discussions on the transition from college to career and exploring entrepreneurial ventures outside traditional business paths. The summit thereby serves as a bridge, connecting academic learning with real-world applications and opportunities.

Central to the PALS experience is the focus on personal development. Activities are carefully designed to build confidence, self-efficacy, and a growth mindset. This facet of the program promotes self-awareness, resilience, and effective goal-setting, which are crucial for personal and professional advancement. Additionally, PALS addresses essential life skills through a business perspective, offering workshops on time management, critical thinking, and personal finance management.

Recognizing the crucial role of mental health in overall success, PALS integrates stress management, emotional intelligence training, and activities that foster a supportive community. This holistic approach ensures that participants are professionally prepared and equipped with the tools to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.

In summary, the Peace Ambassador Leadership Summit at the University of Florida provides a multifaceted educational experience that prepares students for the complexities of leadership in a dynamic world. By blending leadership development, business education, personal growth, social responsibility, and practical life skills, PALS shapes well-rounded, ethically-minded, and effective leaders ready to make a positive impact in their future endeavors.

Evening Social Activities Include:

• Dorm Door Decorating Contest
• Ice Cream Social & Lip Sync Battle
• Movie Night
• Art Therapy
• Talent Showcase
• Themed Prom

Cost and Session Information

Tuition includes: dorm, meals, and all program costs

• Early Bird Special: $650 (Ends 3/31)
• Tuition Cost: $850
• 30 Service Hours
• Leadership Track: Business and Entrepreneurship
• Registration Deadline: June 2

Pre-PALS Information and Orientation Sessions

Interested in PALS? Join our online or in-person info sessions to hear from the Executive Director and Junior & Senior Counselors. Sign up to get all your questions answered and enjoy a private meet and greet with other attendees and Junior Counselors as your PALS date nears.

Monthly info sessions are available virtually via Zoom or in person in Davie, FL. In-person is limited to 20 participants.

How to Register

For more information and to apply, visit our website

PALS is hosted by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization National Voices for Equality, Education, and Enlightenment (NVEEE).