These students are selected through two University open houses and scholarship competitions called Experience UC Days . Welch Colleagues take specialized courses focusing on leadership, service, and social change, complete service projects in their areas of interest, and work to develop their potential as leaders by attending leadership workshops. During the junior year, Colleagues complete a community internship experience and during the senior year, they are expected to implement a significant Capstone Project that impacts UC students and the community. In addition, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors submit a comprehensive portfolio at the conclusion of each academic year. Seniors complete a social change paper that connects a leadership theory to their own experiences as a Welch Colleague Student.
Colleagues attend tailored leadership classes, workshops, and reflection forums.
Colleagues have the opportunity to participate in service projects in collaboration with the Community Service Program in the Office of Student Life. Colleagues are exposed to a focused leadership experience to enhance personal development, self-confidence, and career preparedness. The Colleague Program is a tiered four-year program. Therefore, students selected for this program should be committed to the program for all four years. Approximately 45 scholarships are awarded after Experience UC Days.