We believe that leadership, social, and life skills are essential for success in any career or life path. Our program teaches these skills in a dynamic, interactive way that goes beyond what students learn in the classroom.
PALS isn’t just about learning – it’s also about giving back to the community. Students also participate in community service projects, making this an excellent opportunity to positively impact the world while developing valuable skills.
Are you ready to take your leadership skills to the next level? Do you want to enhance your communication skills, build important life and social skills, and make meaningful connections with peers from all over the U.S.?
Then join the Peace Ambassador Leadership Summit (PALS) at one of our three partner universities. Through hands-on learning and engagement, PALS offers students an opportunity to develop leadership, communication, life, and social skills while preparing for college and/or the workforce. In addition to participating in mock interviews with career professionals, receiving college essay and application help, and completing 50 community service hours, attendees will receive invaluable mentorship to prepare them for college and future careers.
As part of the college life experience, students stay in dormitories and attend workshops aimed at developing critical thinking, public speaking, advocacy skills, and self-esteem, as well as advocating for others and themselves. Participants discuss civic engagement, mental health, public speaking, healthy relationships, self-esteem, LGBTQ+, and various social issues openly.
Furthermore, students are taught how to prioritize their mental health and wellness, develop strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, and analyze how social media negatively impacts body image and self-esteem.
Throughout the week, students form meaningful bonds with each other. Among the speakers will be PALS graduates who are thriving in their careers, university students, career professionals, and community leaders.
The right skills and strategies can change your life right now—and shape your future. So don’t wait. Apply today!
WORKSHOPS INCLUDE (But Not Limited To):
College Preparedness: Prepare for college with opportunities such as mock interviews with career professionals, college essay and application assistance, career days, and community service hours.
Mentorship: Receive one-on-one mentoring and coaching from NVEEE and PALS alumni, recent graduates, and current college interns. Learn from their real-life experiences, as well as how many of them have transformed their pain into purpose and are thriving.
Financial Education: Your financial decisions today have an impact on your future lifestyle. Learn how to become financially independent and avoid debt by developing effective money management skills. Learn about investing, banking, credit scores, and paying for college from professionals. FAFSA, financial aid, scholarships, grants, student loans, and other topics are covered.
Capital Hill Day (Georgetown Only): Designed for students who are passionate about civic engagement and social impact. Young changemakers meet with Congressional legislators and senior staff members to share insights for community improvements. In 2022, participants highlighted the mental health crisis among youth, gun violence in schools, and opportunities for making communities safer and more inclusive overall.
Mock Interviews: What exactly is your brand? Have you prepared a 30-second elevator pitch? Our course will help you prepare for public speaking and interviews, whether for college admissions, scholarships, competitions, or a job opportunity.
College Essay & Application: Create your college essay and résumé on-site. We'll assist you in crafting and editing an engaging narrative that will make you a compelling applicant.
Community Service: Through service projects, PALS will teach you how to advocate for others and your community. Writing, producing, and starring in original public service announcements, participating in on-site upcycling projects that benefit local shelters, donating school supplies, gently used clothing or sanitary products, and collaborating with local nonprofits to achieve a common goal are some of our options.
Evening Social Activities Include:
- Ice Cream Social & Lip Sync Battle
- Pool day (UCF and FIU only)
- Movie Night
- Art Therapy
- Talent Showcase
- Themed Prom (UCF and FIU only)
Summer internships are open to college students.
Early Bird Special Extended to 4/30!
June 18-24 - University of Central Florida - Orlando, FL
- Early Bird Special: $950 (Ends 4/30)
- $1,250 (includes dorm housing, meals, and all program costs)
- 50 Service Hours
- Leadership Track: Communication and Emotional Intelligence
- Registration Deadline: May 14
July 16-23 - Florida International University - Miami, FL
- Early Bird Special: $950 (Ends 4/30)
- $1,250 (includes dorm housing, meals, and all program costs)
- 50 Service Hours
- Leadership Track: Career, Social, and Life Skill Development
- Registration Deadline: June 16
July 30-August 5 - Georgetown University - Washington D.C.
- Early Bird Special: $1,700 (Ends 4/30)
- $2,000 (includes dorm housing, meals, and all program costs)
- 50 Service Hours
- Leadership Track: Civic Engagement and Social Impact
- Registration Deadline: June 30
Pre-PALS Information and Orientation Sessions
Do you want to learn more about PALS? Attend one of our online or in-person information sessions. These sessions provide an opportunity for parents and prospective students to learn more about PALS from the Executive Director, trained Peer Leaders and Junior Counselors, and college students who serve as mentors. Sign up now to receive answers to all of your questions. As your PALS date approaches, registered attendees will be able to join us for a private meet and greet to get to know other attendees as well as your Junior Counselors.
Monthly Information Sessions are held virtually via Zoom and in person at our office in Plantation, FL, during our monthly training sessions for Peer Leaders and Junior Counselors. Limited to 20 participants. https://calendly.com/jowharahsanders/pals-monthly-information-sessions?back=1&month=2023-04
Group Information Sessions are limited to 30 attendees and are ONLY held virtually through Zoom. https://calendly.com/jowharahsanders/pals-information-sessions?back=1&month=2023-04
PALS is hosted by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit, National Voices for Equality, Education and Enlightenment (NVEEE).