Ready to jumpstart your experience as a new Bruin? Join us at the New Bruin Leadership Academy, where every new Bruin is a leader in the making!

The New Bruin Leadership Academy is FREE to participate in! If you’re interested in participating in the New Bruin Leadership Academy, applications for incoming first-year students are now open! Applications for transfer students will open at a later date. The anticipated weekend dates for First-Year are Aug. 14-16 and Sept. 11-13, and the Transfer weekends are from July 24-26 and Aug. 21-23.

The New Bruin Leadership Academy (NBLA) is designed for new Bruins like you. Set against the backdrop of the scenic UCLA South Bay campus, NBLA offers a transformative journey into the world of leadership, tailored for incoming UCLA students eager to make a mark from the get-go.

First-Year Application Click here for the New Bruin Leadership Academy application!
May 17 at 11:59 pm Pacific Deadline
June 4-9 Communication updates
Transfer Application Coming soon
June 7 at 11:59 pm Pacific Deadline
June 25-30 Communication updates

* NOTE: If accepted into the program, a hold of $65 will be placed on your student account and serves as a deposit for securing your place in the program. The $65 hold will be removed from your account after successfully attending and completing the New Bruin Leadership Academy. If you fail to attend and/or complete the New Bruin Leadership Academy, you will be required to pay the $65 charge.

What Awaits You at the Academy:

  • Cohort-Based Learning: Dive into an enriching environment with small groups within a total of 50 undergraduate peers, fostering close connections and collaborative learning.
  • Diverse Leadership Insights: Engage with a spectrum of leaders including UCLA’s esteemed staff, faculty, successful alumni, and influential community figures, gaining a 360-degree view of leadership in action.
  • Hands-On Learning: Through workshops, seminars, and real-world case studies, you’ll practice essential leadership skills, from strategic thinking to effective communication.
  • Personal Growth: Center your unique story and vision in discussions and activities, crafting a personal leadership style that resonates with your values and aspirations.

Why this is a Must for New Bruins:

  • Early Network Building: Connect with peers, mentors, and leaders even before your first quarter begins, establishing a supportive network that lasts throughout your UCLA journey.
  • Empowerment: Facilitated by UCLA Student Affairs, you’ll navigate your college experience with confidence, creativity, and resilience, ready to inspire change.
  • Comprehensive Leadership Development: Explore different leadership styles, enhance your problem-solving skills, and prepare for meaningful dialogues on complex issues.

Special Highlights:

  • Engagement with Key Leaders: Gain unique perspectives with sessions featuring senior UCLA leaders, enriching your understanding of university leadership.
  • Tailored to New Bruins: Specifically designed for incoming students, the academy is your early window into the dynamic world of UCLA, offering a head start on your college and leadership journey.

Program Details:

  • Connected to Orientation: The program will begin just as your orientation session ends, providing participants with a convenient schedule
  • All-Inclusive Experience: With transportation (departing from UCLA and returning to UCLA), meals, and accommodations provided, you can focus entirely on your development journey at no cost; however, if accepted into the program, a $65 hold will be placed on your student account as a deposit to secure your spot, which will be removed upon successful attendance and completion of the New Bruin Leadership Academy, but will be charged if you fail to attend and/or complete the program.
  • Eligibility and Commitment: Open to all incoming UCLA first-year and transfer students. Participants must be available for the entire selected weekend (Friday evening through Sunday evening) to ensure a cohesive and uninterrupted experience.