Leadership Development

GS Student Life provides leadership development opportunities in the areas of campus engagement, academic achievement, and non-University-related roles. We aim to develop within our students an appreciation for diverse experiences, opinions, and different styles of leadership.

    Leadership Opportunities

    Voices in Leadership

    This lunch series aims to provide leadership skills building for students to achieve goals in the areas of campus engagement, academic achievement, and non-University related roles. Each lunch space will be geared towards specific identity groups (e.g., women and femme of center, international students, black and brown students, etc.) in order to build and foster connection and reflection on leadership development as impacted by our identities. 

    Skills Building Workshops

    This workshop series aims to provide general-skills practice and conversation around developmental areas often seen in both academic and non-academic settings. This includes, but is not limited to, networking, conflict resolution, and team dynamics.

    Leadership through Service

    Join GS Student Life for a two-part event (held each semester) centered around responsible student engagement and reflection. Part One will be a critical dialogue around issues faced by communities and the dominant narratives we hear in social justice work. Part Two will be a visit with a community organization for an opportunity to perform service work and learn about the mission of the organization.

    The School of General Studies Student Leadership Awards are given to individuals that have distinguished themselves with their dedication to leadership and service to the School of General Studies and/or the Columbia University community.

    Alumni Key Award

    Awarded to a graduating senior for exceptional academic achievement and a demonstration of ongoing commitment to leadership and service to the School of General Studies community. The Alumni Key Award is officially conferred at the School of General Studies Class Day ceremony and the Postbac Premed Class Day ceremony.

    Campbell Award

    Awarded to a graduating senior who shows exceptional leadership and Columbia spirit as exemplified by Bill Campbell '62CC, '64TC. The Campbell Award is officially conferred at the School of General Studies Class Day ceremony.

    Dean’s Citation Award

    Awarded to a graduating senior who has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to outstanding leadership and service to the School of General Studies community throughout their academic tenure.

    Spirit Award

    Awarded to a select group of students who have made outstanding contributions through their dedication to leadership and service to the School of General Studies and the Columbia University community.

    Change Agent Award

    Awarded to a select group of students who have made impactful contributions through their dedication to equity, inclusion, and social justice to the School of General Studies and the Columbia University community.

    Service Award

    Awarded to students who have distinguished themselves this academic year with a dedication to service and leadership within the School of General Studies and/or the Columbia University community.

    Honorary Owl Award

    Awarded to a student from Columbia College, Columbia Engineering, Barnard College, or any Columbia University graduate school who has made a contribution to the School of General Studies community through their leadership and service this academic year.

    The GS Mentor Program pairs specially-trained continuing undergraduate and Postbac Premed students with incoming students on the basis of several criteria including majors or premedical tracks, interests, and backgrounds. Mentors meet with their mentees at regular intervals throughout their first semester to fulfill the following objectives:

    • Assist students as they adjust to Columbia and college life by providing general advice, assistance, and support as well as sharing their own transition experiences
    • Assist students in developing social networks throughout the Columbia community via social gatherings, University events, club meetings, etc.
    • Provide information and resources for becoming involved in extra-curricular clubs, organizations, activities, and sports
    • Provide guidance to students in starting initiatives, projects, charities, etc.
    Application Deadline: Sunday, January 29

    If you have any questions, email [email protected].