Bulldogs United in Leadership Development (BUiLD) is a new opportunity for student leaders to engage with each other while learning and developing as leaders. Students will gain valuable skills by participating in the interactive sessions and considering how they can make a difference in themselves, their organizations, and their community!
BUiLD has been designed by partners from all areas of campus, including the Office of Sustainability, UMD Engage, Bulldog Resource Center, Swenson College of Science & Engineering, Career Center, and the Office of Diversity & Inclusion.
The Social Change Model
Our program revolves around the Social Change Model (SCM) of Leadership--a model developed in the late 1990s by a group of leadership educators. SCM emphasizes both personal development and positive social change, and it is grounded in the belief that leadership is value-based.
The model outlines seven core values, organized into the three categories of Individual Values, Group Values, and Community/Societal Values.
Through practical experiences, collaborative dialogue, and team-building exercises, BUiLD participants will develop as Social Change-oriented leaders.
FAQs
Am I eligible to apply? Do I need leadership experience?
We encourage students with any leadership background to apply! Whether you are an aspiring leader or a well-experienced one, we will consider your application. We prioritize your passion towards leadership and your desire to make a difference!
How do I apply? When’s the deadline?
Applications are currently closed for 2025-26, but will be open again next Fall.
What does the application process look like?
Within the application, you will be asked basic information, such as your name, major, graduation year, etc. Additionally, we will ask you why you are interested, what you currently do, and what social change means to you. At the end of the application, you’ll sign up for an interview, which will just be a brief conversation with 2-3 members of our selection committee to discuss your interest.
We will select between 10-20 students to participate, and these decisions will be announced during the week of September 22nd-26th.
What is the time commitment?
Cohorts will meet monthly from 6-8pm on campus. The following are the specific workshop dates (all are on Wednesdays and Thursdays):
- October 15th OR 16th
- November 19th OR 20th
- January 28th OR 29th
- February 25th OR 26th
- March 25th OR 26th
- April 15th OR 16th
Participants are expected to attend all sessions. These dates are provided in the application as well.
Additionally, students will be expected to complete brief reflections between the monthly sessions in order to see themselves grow as leaders.
Is there any cost to participate in this?
Nope! It is entirely free.
What will workshops look like? What topics will be explored?
Each workshop will have a theme—for example, “Individual Values” or “Setting Leadership Goals.” We will explore and practice the soft skills associated with the value category through group activities, presentations, guest speakers, and more!
What skills will I develop by participating in this program?
By participating in BUILD, you will learn a wide variety of soft and hard skills. Primarily, you will gain a foundational understanding of leading through a social change lens. The curriculum will provide you with valuable experience in individual reflection, group management, and community action. Additionally, you will have an abundance of opportunities to network with student, staff, and administrative leaders from across campus.
Other questions?
Reach out to [email protected] with any additional questions!