Opportunity category
Leadership Programs for High School Students
Leadership programs help students learn to organize people and ideas. Fellowships, youth councils, and training intensives give high schoolers the skills, and the title, to lead initiatives of their own.
Youth Civic Leadership Academy (YCLA)
City of Pittsburgh
Selected high school students participate in a 10‑week program that includes weekly workshops on public policy, a mentorship with a city council member, and a capstone project where they design a community improvement proposal presented to city officials.
Leadership in the Business World
Wharton Global Youth
The Wharton Leadership in the Business World (LBW) Summer Program is an intensive pre-college experience that introduces high school students to the fundamentals of business through Wharton-level coursework, case studies, and collaborative projects. Participants explore topics such as entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and leadership while working with peers from around the world. The program develops analytical thinking, teamwork, and business leadership skills through a rigorous and immersive academic environment.
Leadership Institute Program
Brown University
The Leadership Institute at Brown University is a summer program that helps students strengthen their leadership, communication, and collaboration skills through interactive workshops and team-based projects. Participants explore real-world challenges, develop strategies for effective leadership, and learn from experienced instructors in a collaborative academic environment. The program emphasizes critical thinking, confidence, and ethical decision-making while preparing students to make a positive impact in their schools and communities.
Philadelphia Youth Leadership Corps (PYLC)
Outward Bound
High school students participate in a 10-day leadership development program, learning new skills and challenging themselves in various outdoor activities.
Teen Leadership Programs
Greater Philadelphia YMCA
High school students participate in leadership development programs, learning new skills and challenging themselves in various career and civic engagement pathways.
Youth Leadership Somerset
Youth Leadership Somerset
High school students participate in a nine-month leadership program, attending sessions one Saturday per month. They develop leadership skills, learn about community issues, and create a community service project.
Leadership Academy
Camp Harbor View
The Leadership Academy is a year-round program that empowers high school students to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and make a positive impact in their communities. Students participate in workshops, team-building activities, and community service projects, learning from experienced leaders and mentors. The program focuses on developing the skills and knowledge necessary for students to become effective leaders.
Young Adults Program
MassHire South Shore Career Center
High school students participate in the Young Adults Program, developing skills and knowledge to pursue their ideal career. They gain experience in career exploration, resume building, and job search strategies.
Teen Leadership Corps
Cradles to Crayons
High school students participate in the Teen Leadership Corps, developing leadership skills and learning about social justice issues. They work in groups to create community projects and gain experience in leadership and teamwork.
Youth LEAD
Emerson College
High school students participate in the Youth LEAD program, developing leadership skills and learning about social justice issues. They work in groups to create community projects and gain experience in leadership and teamwork.
Teen Leadership Program
Urbanity Dance
High school students participate in a comprehensive leadership program, focusing on dance and creative expression. Students develop important skills in leadership, teamwork, and communication, while also exploring their artistic side.
Boston Leadership & Innovation Program for Teens
Vestra Education
High school students participate in a comprehensive leadership program, focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship. Students develop important skills in leadership, teamwork, and creative problem-solving, while also exploring their entrepreneurial spirit.
Summer Leadership Program — The City School
The City School
High school students develop leadership skills through community building, political education, and leadership training, preparing them for future leadership roles.
Long Island Leadership Development Program
Usdan
High school students participate in the Long Island Leadership Development Program, developing leadership skills through workshops and community service projects. Students work with program staff to develop and implement programs for younger children, gaining experience in leadership and community outreach. The program takes place at the Usdan Summer Camp in Wheatley Heights, NY.
Long Island High School for the Arts Leadership Program
Long Island High School for the Arts
High school students participate in the Long Island High School for the Arts Leadership Program, developing leadership skills through arts-based projects and community service. Students work with program staff to develop and implement programs for younger children, gaining experience in leadership and arts education. The program takes place at the Long Island High School for the Arts in Syosset, NY.
Frequently asked questions
What are leadership programs for high schoolers?
Fellowships, youth councils, and training intensives that teach students to organize people and projects—and often give them a title and a network to lead their own initiatives.
Do I need to already be a leader to apply?
No. These programs are built to develop leadership skills, so they look for potential and motivation rather than an existing track record.
Are leadership programs paid or free?
It varies—some are free or offer stipends, others charge tuition with aid available. Check each listing and the official site.
How do leadership programs help with college?
They demonstrate initiative and the ability to work with others—qualities colleges look for—and often lead to projects you can highlight in essays.