One of the best ways to learn about groups and about leadership in groups is to live it. That's why Miami offers opportunities for both first-year and upperclass students to live in residence halls that focus on leadership and service. The opportunities Miami provides in living leadership is not intended to perpetuate or "fast-track" those who think they are already leaders. Instead, these living groups are places that include those students seriously committed to learning about leadership and then testing their own and others' leadership by putting theories in action in everyday living, organizational, and service leadership. The living group for first-year students is "Leadership, Excellence, and Community" and the upperclass option is the "Scholar Leader" program.

Leadership, Excellence and Community
First-year students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of Theme Learning Communities. Information about these programs is provided in a mailing sent to all students after admission to Miami has been offered and accepted by students. Once placed in the "Leadership, Excellence, and Community" program, you'll receive more details about what is involved. However, rest assured, this community is lively and interesting. In the first semester, participants enroll in a seminar on leadership, EDL 306; this is a two-credit course designed to introduce you to basic leadership ideas and then challenge you to translate them to practice. In addition, participants will participate in the opening convocation for the community, attend the campus-wide leadership conference, and engage in service projects. The sky is the limit in this high-energy program for students serious about their commitment to serving others through active leadership.

Scholar Leader Program
This is one of the most engaging and all-encompassing programs available at Miami or anywhere. For a description of the program, go to the web site created by participants in the program in the 05-06 year Check it out.

The selection process for the 07-08 program is underway. The deadline for applications was December 6, 2006. Those who have applied should make sure to mark the calendar for an interview. Should you be identified as a semi-finalist, you must attend both a group and individual interview on January 27, 2007; more details on this later. Final selection will be complete by mid-February. The Scholar Leaders themselves are involved in selecting the next class. Students selected into the program may preference a single room (space limited) or a double room and bring a roommate with them. Scholarships are provided to every Scholar Leader; additional need-based aid is offered to those who qualify.