Discover Leadership Pre-Orientation Program

Timeline

• Applications Available: May 11, 2026 
• Applications Deadline: June 30, 2026 
• Decisions Announced: July 2026 (TBD)
• Student Confirmations Due: July 2026 (TBD)

Applications close June 30th. 

Questions? Email Elijah Vasquez at elijahv@uchicago.edu

Participants in the UChicago Leads Pre-Orientation program will be expected to contribute $100 to help defer the program expenses. This expense will be added to your second Autumn Quarter tuition bill.

Financial assistance is available for students; please indicate on your application if the $100 contribution proves a barrier to your participation.

Housing and meals will be provided during the program. 

All students participating in a Pre-Orientation program will move directly into their academic year residence hall and remain there for the duration of the program. Upon arriving on campus, students will check into their assigned residence hall and move into their term-time room before participating in Pre-Orientation activities.

Students may bring all belongings for the academic year with them at move-in. We recommend packing thoughtfully and labeling all items with your name and phone number to help keep belongings organized during the transition to campus.

Since students will already be settled into their permanent housing assignment, there is no need to pack a separate bag specifically for the Pre-Orientation program.

Students will be responsible for any personal or incidental expenses. 

The Center for Leadership and Involvement is looking for Peer Leaders to welcome our incoming cohort of Discover Leadership participants!

Responsibilities:

• Facilitate a small group of 5 students throughout the program
• Ensure the safety of the students at all times
• Be present throughout the entirety of the program, including early mornings and late nights
• Provide support and guidance to students as needed
• Report any concerns or incidents to Assistant Director of Student Leadership Development
• Follow University of Chicago guidelines for mandated reporters

Qualifications:

• Previous Discover Leadership participant preferred
• Experience working with students in a group setting preferred
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion

All Peer Leaders are required to arrive 2 days prior of the start of the program for mandatory training. Peer Leaders will also be compensated with a stipend of $500.

Applications are now open! Apply here. 

If you have any questions, please email Elijah Vasquez at elijahv@uchicago.edu