Each fall, the Yosemite Leadership Program welcomes a new cohort into its campus-based, co-curricular leadership development program. Cohorts are intentionally kept small to ensure a personal, high-quality experience focused on leadership growth, community engagement, and experiential learning.
The Two-Year Program is structured across two distinct years, each with its own focus and set of experiences. Participants also attend two overnight retreats to Yosemite National Park each academic year.
Year 1: Leadership Seminar
Applications will open in Fall 2026!
Schedule: Wednesdays, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
The first year consists of a series of interconnected elements that help participants explore their leadership identities, the Social Change Model of Leadership Development, community engagement, National Parks, environmental stewardship, and personal growth. Sessions are held weekly on campus.
Student Voices
“It is a safe space for anything here. We listen to each other, and we support each other. This program brings new experiences that motivate us to try new things and discover sides of ourselves we have yet to show. It is my pocket of peace for the week.”
— 2023–2025 YLP Participant
“The most valuable components of this program are the connections being made alongside learning different leadership models. It helped me connect with like-minded individuals and build meaningful friendships.”
— 2023–2025 YLP Participant
Year 2: Social Change Practicum
Applications for the 2025–2027 cohort will open in August.
Schedule: Wednesdays, 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
The second year focuses on a community-based, applied capstone project supported by practical leadership development curriculum. Participants engage in mentorship with local high school students, complete community volunteer hours, and attend skill-building workshops.
Projects are developed in partnership with community-serving organizations and UC Merced student groups, providing students with real-world experience in designing, executing, and evaluating impactful initiatives.
Student Reflections
“The capstone experience taught me how to plan, propose, execute, and report a project. I learned to aim high when it comes to outreach and to be assertive while setting healthy boundaries in a team setting.”
— 2022–2024 YLP Participant
“My leadership skills expanded tremendously through this two-year experience. I gained life skills that made me a better person, and the space this program created gave me a safety net for support and resources.”
— 2022–2024 YLP Participant
Ready to Apply?
Applications open each fall. When applications are live, use the button below.
Questions? Reach out to us at lead@ucmerced.edu
