Offered every semester, ELI is a graded, three-credit hour leadership development course designed for first and second year students (students with 60 or less credit hours).  This interactive and engaging class challenges students to examine different leadership theories and styles, to discover their own leadership style, and to gain skills that will lead to positive, effective change for their communities.  Throughout the class, students will work with positive change agents- ranging from their peers to faculty and staff to even local community leaders.  In addition, students will have the opportunity to work in mentor groups and create leadership change projects that will enhance their learning and make a difference to UK and the surrounding community.

Course participants will be selected by a committee on the basis of their
co-curricular involvement, academic achievement, leadership experience, and essay responses.  Due to the high number of applicants and high level of commitment required in the class, applicants should have a minimum grade point average of 2.5.  To apply for ELI, click (here) for an application.

“It’s not every day that you are able to truly look forward to going to a class with the confidence that you will in some way be enlightened.”

“I guess I am trying to say that ELI has given me some sort of drive to change the world I live in, along with the confidence to make that change.”

“Favorite experience at UK so far.”

“I’ll take away a stronger ability to evaluate myself and my actions and a clear perspective on my personal beliefs and how they influence my leadership style.”

“ELI means opportunity.  Opportunity to work with leaders, agents of change and the future of UK.  I learned the importance of patience when listening to others and that there are many paths to success.”

“ELI gave me the opportunity to see myself as a leader and helped me to become further involved on campus and in my community."